Launched by the International Solar Alliance (ISA) at COP27 in 2022, the SolarX Startup Challenge fosters entrepreneurship to develop scalable solar solutions across ISA Member Countries. It bridges the gap between solar potential and deployment by empowering local innovators, enhancing regional capacity, and advancing clean energy transitions.

The inaugural Africa-focused edition in 2023 inspired the APAC and India editions launched at COP28, and the LAC edition launched at COP29, showcasing ISA's commitment to nurturing innovation in solar energy. By crowdsourcing cost-effective solutions, the challenge accelerates the global shift to renewable energy while fostering local entrepreneurship and building capacity across the solar value chain.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India, and reputed Philanthropies supported the 2024 edition, with select donors enhancing outreach for the African Accelerator Programme. Partners like Invest India, WAIPA, and GOGLA amplify the impact of winning solutions through mentorship, market access, and investor connections.