TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan's foreign trade authorities have put out an open call for proposals from international businesses to work with Taiwanese technology, products, and companies to create sustainable solutions.

Organized by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) and the International Trade Administration (TITA) the “Go Green With Taiwan” was launched in Taipei on Wednesday (June 19). The initiative is seeking proposals that “focus on using Taiwan's green products and solutions, or on fostering technological cooperation to achieve environmental and economic sustainability,” according to TAITRA promotional materials.

Six finalists will be selected from the proposals for travel to Taiwan to learn about sustainable business practices. Three winning submissions will be chosen from those six to receive cash prizes of NT$647,110 (US$20,000) each.

TAITRA Chair James C.F. Huang (黃志芳) said the initiative is a “comprehensive gateway” for international businesses to get an introduction to Taiwan’s sustainable business practices. Speaking to reporters at the initiative’s launch, Huang said that Taiwan is well known for its semiconductor industry, and aspires also to be recognized for its clean energy and green technology.

Founder of Taiwanese computer company Acer, Stan Shih (施振榮), backed the project at the launch. “Going green is the future, but going green with Taiwan is our ambition,” he said.

The winning submissions will be assessed on their environmental and economic sustainability, feasibility, innovation, and connection to Taiwan. Speaking at the launch, TITA director Cynthia Kiang (江文若) said judges will be looking for “concrete action plans” that heighten Taiwan’s international visibility.

Interested applicants can submit proposals on the Go Green With Taiwan website until Aug. 31, and the winners will be announced in December. Applications must be made in English, and can be made by companies, non-governmental organizations, universities, and others.