Think you can develop an app that inspires Scottish businesses to think greener?

So, what do I have to do?

The Challenge

Using your development skills and ninja-like abilities, you must create an exciting and innovative software application which has the power to enable Scotland’s SMEs to respond to carbon reduction goals.

We want your app “to raise business awareness amongst SMEs of climate change requirements, measure progress towards carbon reduction, or assist SMEs in either carbon management or enhanced energy efficiency “

Success lies in not only dazzling the judges with your software development skills but also your understanding of climate change challenges for Scotland’s SMEs and how you intend to address them.

How does it all work?

Here's the plan

First, register your team to confirm your intention to take part. Once registered, you will be invited to take part in an inspirational app workshop to get help, support and guidance for developing your solution.

Then you must submit a summary of your idea, telling us all about your solution. If our judges are impressed you will be invited back to the finals to demonstrate your working software to the judging panel.

The judges will then make their recommendations on a shortlist for each award to the joint Chairs of Scotland’s 2020 Climate Group and one lucky winner will be chosen.

What’s in it for me?

Make a difference doing what you love

Think of the challenge. The kudos. Doing your bit for the environment. Oh, and did we mention a prize fund of £50k toward development of the winning app?

As if that wasn't enough, we are also throwing in a once in a lifetime trip to Microsoft HQ in Redmond, USA for the winner of a special Microsoft Technology Challenge Prize.

This is one competition that is seriously worth entering.

How will ideas be judged?

Fair and square

To get the most out of your efforts, we’ve provided some tips on exactly what our judges are looking for in your Software Design Preliminary Summary and in the final face-to-face demonstration.

Competition entries may be any kind of software application - for the web, a personal computer, a mobile handheld device, or any software platform widely available to the public but will be judged on the same criteria.

How are you making a difference? What does your new solution do? How does your solution work? How will your solution become a reality? How well can you explain your solution?

So can I start coding now?

Make sure you are eligible

We love enthusiasm but please make sure you can take part first - we wouldn't want any precious time going to waste.

Read the eligibility requirements for the competition before you get started.

OK, I’m in. How do I enter?

Welcome on board

To enter the competition, you must first register. Then you can go to work to define and develop your app. Don't forget the appathon workshop on 2/3 June.

Once you are satisfied that your solution is complete, you can submit your entry by signing in at any point and using the entry form provided.

Register now to make sure you don’t miss out. Follow our Twitter and Facebook pages for updates.