Applications are open for the 2025 Green Finance Challenge with HSBC Continental Europe!

All current students of the Paris School of International Affairs (PSIA) and the École d’Affaires Publiques (EAP) are invited to take part in the third annual Green Finance Challenge with HSBC Continental Europe, organised by the European Chair for Sustainable Development and Climate Transition at Sciences Po.

The Green Finance Challenge

You will be assigned to a mentor or a group of mentors from HSBC Continental Europe to work on one of the themes below, in small groups, in order to produce a brief report. This challenge offers a unique opportunity for Sciences Po students to work on concrete projects in sustainable finance and benefit from the expertise of HSBC professionals.

This Year’s Themes

1. Explore how to build diversified investment portfolios that embed ESG commitments and evaluate how investments perform across different market cycles.
   
2. Benchmark the competitive ecosystem around Climate Tech (startups, VC funds) and assess public and regulatory frameworks (EIB, EU Green Deal, grants, etc.).
   
3. Benchmark the competitive ecosystem around clean Energy & Transportation, focusing on the value proposition of key European and international banks, including innovative ESG advisory and financing products (such as blended finance, project and export finance).
   
4. Develop ESG KPIs for HSBC’s own operations to better track activities, focus on the most impactful areas, and communicate progress effectively.
   

Why Participate?

Participating in the Green Finance Challenge offers several advantages:

• Opportunity to work with a major international bank
  
• Expert advice: You will receive guidance and advice from HSBC mentors throughout the project
  
• Networking opportunities: The challenge will allow you to expand your professional network by meeting sustainable finance experts and participating in exclusive events
  
• Development of practical skills: You will gain the chance to apply your academic knowledge to real-life situations and develop skills in green finance and project management
  
• Academic and professional development: Participating can enhance your CV by offering you practical experience and contributing to the final report
  

Additionally, you will be invited to participate in two networking events at HSBC Continental Europe’s offices:

• Kickoff Event: 4 November 2025, 6:00–7:30pm — a great opportunity to exchange with all participants: Sciences Po students, Chair researchers and HSBC professionals.
  
  
• Closing Event: 19 February 2026, 2:00-6:00pm — to celebrate your achievements with a final pitch presentation, followed by a networking cocktail reception.
  

How to Apply

If you are interested in taking part in the Green Finance Challenge, please kindly fill out this application form and include your CV before Thursday, 16 October 2025.

Notification of selection will be sent before the end of October.

If you have any questions, please contact sdctchair.info@sciencespo.fr.