14 Climate Tech Accelerators Worth Applying For in 2024 [Full Review]

Techstars Sustainability is a premier accelerator program dedicated to fostering innovation in climate technology. In partnership with The Nature Conservancy, this initiative aims to support startups that are addressing some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.

Techstars Sustainability empowers entrepreneurs to scale their solutions and drive meaningful impact in the fight against climate change by providing a supportive framework of mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities.

Techstars Sustainability focuses on a diverse range of sectors within climate technology, including:

• Renewable Energy: Supporting innovations that enhance energy generation from sustainable sources.
  
  
• Sustainable Agriculture: Promoting technologies that improve agricultural practices, reduce waste, and increase food security.
  
  
• Carbon Capture: Encouraging solutions that capture and store carbon emissions to mitigate climate change effects.
  
  
• Waste Management: Fostering startups that develop innovative methods for waste reduction, recycling, and resource recovery.

The application process for Techstars Sustainability is conducted online. Founders can submit their applications through the Techstars website.

Past Participants

Bioelements Group (Chile), Finch (US), Climatescape (US), Aclymate (UK)

Techstars Sustainability provides a comprehensive support system for startups, which includes:

• Mentorship: Access to a network of experienced mentors who offer guidance on business strategy, technology development, and market entry.
  
  
• Funding Opportunities: Startups can receive up to $120,000 in funding to help them grow and scale their operations.
  
  
• Networking Events: Founders are connected with industry experts, potential investors, and fellow entrepreneurs through various networking events and workshops.
  
  
• Access to Resources: Participants benefit from curated resources and workshops designed to enhance their business acumen and operational capabilities.

Equity Structure

Techstars typically invests up to $120,000 in exchange for approximately 6-9% equity in the participating companies.

This equity stake is generally granted at the next qualified equity financing round, ensuring that Techstars only profits when the startups succeed

Greentown Labs is recognized as the largest ClimateTech startup incubator in North America, dedicated to fostering climate solutions through entrepreneurship, collaboration, and innovation.

Established in 2011, Greentown Labs is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with locations in Somerville, Massachusetts, and Houston, Texas. Since its inception, it has served over 200 startups and supported more than 500, contributing to the creation of over 11,000 jobs and raising over $5.7 billion in funding.

Greentown Labs focuses on a diverse range of sectors within the ClimatTech space, emphasizing innovative solutions to combat climate change. Key sectors include:

• Energy Generation: Startups are working on technologies that enhance energy production from renewable sources, such as solar and wind.
  
  
• Energy Storage: Innovations in storage solutions are crucial for managing the intermittency of renewable energy sources.
  
  
• Electrification: Companies are developing electric vehicles and related infrastructure to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
  
  
• Sustainable Mobility: This includes advancements in public transportation and alternative mobility solutions that minimize environmental impact.
  
  
• Wastewater Treatment: Startups are creating technologies to improve water purification and recycling processes.
  
  
• Water Conservation: Solutions aimed at optimizing water usage in various sectors are also a focus.
  
  
• Carbon Capture and Utilization: Technologies that capture carbon emissions and convert them into useful products are being explored.
  
  
• Sustainable Materials: Innovations in creating materials that reduce environmental impact, such as carbon-negative concrete, are part of the incubator’s portfolio.
  
  
• Sustainable Agriculture: Startups are working on solutions that promote sustainable farming practices and reduce the carbon footprint of food production.
  
  
• Food Technology: Innovations aimed at making food production more efficient and less resource-intensive are also supported.

Applications can be made via the Greentown Website. Startups interested in applying must meet specific eligibility requirements, which generally include being in the early stages of development and focusing on climate technology solution.

Past Participants

Climative (US), Carbon Negative Solutions (US), Cert Systems(US), Applied Gia (US)

Greentown Labs offers a comprehensive array of support and benefits for its member startups, designed to foster innovation and facilitate growth in the ClimateTech sector. Here are the key benefits:

• Lab and Office Space: Members have access to shared lab and office spaces equipped with essential tools and resources. This includes specialized equipment such as 3D printers, electronics labs, and machine shops, allowing startups to prototype and refine their products effectively.
  
  
• Collaborative Environment: Startups benefit from being part of a community of like-minded entrepreneurs, which encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing. Regular town hall meetings and social events foster connections among members.
  
  
• Corporate Partnerships: Greentown Labs has a robust network of over 85 corporate partners, providing startups with opportunities for pilot projects, investments, and access to industry expertise.
  
  
• Advisory Support: Members receive guidance from experienced mentors and industry experts, helping them navigate challenges related to scaling, fundraising, and market entry.
  
  
• Programming and Events: Greentown Labs hosts various events such as pitch days, lunch and learns, and office hours, which facilitate interaction between startups and potential investors or partners.
  
  
• Investment Connections: Startups can connect with investors through Greentown’s network, enhancing their chances of securing funding for growth and development.
  
  
• Workshops and Training: Members have access to educational programs that cover various aspects of business.

Equity Structure

Greentown Labs operates on a unique incubation model that focuses on providing resources without taking equity from member companies.

Startups pay monthly fees based on their lab and office space, which grants them access to extensive resources valued at over $1 million, including lab facilities, office space, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

This model has contributed to a high startup survival rate of approximately 90%.

The Creative Destruction Lab (CDL) Climate Tech Accelerator is a global program that leverages CDL’s proven model for commercializing promising science and technology to help address the critical challenge of climate change.

The program focuses on supporting early-stage, science-based startups with massively scalable solutions that can significantly positively impact the environment and society.

CDL Climate specializes in supporting startups working on innovative solutions in the following areas:

• Renewable/Alternative Energy and Storage
• Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Carbon Sequestration
• Mobility and Transportation
• Food Tech, Agricultural Tech, and Aquaculture
• Waste and Circular Economy

Applications for CDL Climate are accepted online through the CDL website at creativedestructionlab.com/apply.

The application process involves submitting information about the startup, its technology, team, and potential impact. Selected ventures will begin the nine-month CDL program in October each year.

Past Participants

Heirloom (US), Carbyon (US), Watershed (US), Planetary (Canada)

CDL Climate provides a range of value-added support to participating startups, including:

• Focused mentorship from proven entrepreneurs who have founded, led, and sold significant tech companies.
  
  
• Technical advice from world-leading scientists, engineers, and economists.
  
  
• Access to top business students who embed within the company to provide business development support.
  
  
• Opportunities to raise capital from North American and European investors

Equity Structure

CDL Climate operates on a non-profit model and takes no equity from participating startups. The program is funded through philanthropy, allowing it to provide its services free of charge to founders.

This unique approach aligns the accelerator’s interests with those of the startups, creating an environment focused solely on maximizing the potential for success and impact

The 100+ Accelerator is a collaborative initiative launched in late 2018 by major consumer goods companies, including AB InBev, The Coca-Cola Company, Colgate-Palmolive, Danone, and Unilever.

Its primary goal is to address pressing sustainability challenges within their supply chains by partnering with innovative startups.

The 100+ Accelerator focuses on addressing sustainability challenges across several key sectors. Specifically, the initiative targets the following areas:

• Circular Economy: Innovations aimed at reducing waste and promoting resource reuse and recycling.
  
  
• Smart Agriculture: Solutions that enhance agricultural practices for sustainability and efficiency.
  
  
• Water Stewardship: Initiatives focused on improving water quality and management.
  
  
• Climate Action: Strategies and technologies that contribute to reducing carbon emissions and mitigating climate change.
  
  
• Biodiversity: Efforts to protect and restore ecosystems and promote biodiversity.
  
  
• Inclusive Growth: Solutions that foster economic opportunities and equity within communities.
  
  
• Health and Wellness: Innovations that enhance public health and well-being.

These sectors reflect the collaborative goals of the program’s corporate partners, which include AB InBev, The Coca-Cola Company, Colgate-Palmolive, and Unilever.

How does the 100+ Accelerator measure the success of its startups
What are the eligibility criteria for applying to the 100+ Accelerator

The application window for each cohort is usually open for 8-10 weeks. Startups need to complete the application form on F6S during this time period.

The 100+ Accelerator is looking for startups that meet the following criteria:

• Have a product that is ready to go to market or already in-market (earlier stage companies are considered only by rare exception)
• Demonstrate traction in the form of IP, revenue, clients, pilots or contracts
• Have the ability to scale quickly and make a significant impact on one or more of the program’s challenge areas
• Are led by passionate entrepreneurs with diverse talent
• Are able to travel internationally to the United States for the program

Past Participants

Canovation (US), Climatenza(US), AgriFriend(Europe), Solumar (Asia-Pacific)

• Funding: Startups receive up to $100,000 in equity-free funding to execute a pilot project with one of the corporate partners.
  
  
• Pilot Opportunities: The program matches each selected startup with one of the corporate partners to pilot their solution within the partner’s supply chain.This allows startups to validate their product-market fit and scale their impact.
  
  
• Training and Mentorship: Startups receive 6 months of remote programming and training from experts and mentors to accelerate their growth. Training covers areas like pitch training for investors, leadership development, financial modeling, and business negotiations.
  
  
• Networking and Community: Participating startups gain access to a global network of mentors and potential partners. The program culminates in a Demo Day where startups pitch to world-class investors.
  
  
• Potential for Follow-On Contracts: The ultimate goal is for startups to graduate from the pilot stage to larger commercial contracts and build strong relationships with one or more of the partner companies.

Equity Structure

The 100+ Accelerator does not take equity in exchange for its support and funding. Instead, it provides up to $100,000 in equity-free funding to selected startups for pilot implementation. 

This structure allows startups to retain full ownership of their company while benefiting from the resources, mentorship, and opportunities provided by the program.

Funded by Village Capital,  Greentech Europe is a dynamic accelerator program aimed at supporting women-led startups across Europe that are focused on developing innovative solutions to address climate challenges.

This initiative seeks to empower female entrepreneurs by providing them with vital resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities. It aims to reduce the gender financing gap in the climate tech sector. 

Greentech Europe 2024 focuses on several critical sectors within climate technology:

• Climate Mitigation: Innovations designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  
  
• Biodiversity Protection: Technologies aimed at combating biodiversity loss.
  
  
• Resource Savings: Solutions that decrease reliance on non-renewable resources.
  
  
• Waste Reduction: Initiatives promoting a circular economy through effective waste management.

The application process for Greentech Europe 2024 is conducted online. Startups must submit their applications through a designated platform, providing comprehensive details about their business model, sustainability impact, and team composition.

A key eligibility criterion is that at least 50% of the founders or senior leadership team must be women.

Past Participants

Ecoligo (Germany), Plan A (Germany ), Ecolibrium (UK), Biohm(US)

The accelerator provides extensive support to participating startups, including:

• Online and in-person training: A tailored curriculum to help startups identify milestones and prepare for funding rounds.
  
  
• Mentorship: One-on-one connections with investors, strategic partners, and potential customers.
  
  
• Financial Coaching: Personalized sessions with investment analysts to assist in building financial models and understanding unit economics.
  
  
• Networking Events: Opportunities to connect with industry experts and peers.
  
  
• Funding Opportunities: Startups may receive investments of up to €150,000 in exchange for equity, providing essential capital to scale their operations.

Equity Structure

Greentech Europe 2024 does take equity stakes in participating startups, typically offering investments in exchange for shares in the company.

As part of the larger Brinc ecosystem, this accelerator aims to support startups that are developing impactful solutions to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability.

The program offers a comprehensive 12-week virtual experience, providing startups with essential resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities to help them scale their innovations effectively. 

Brinc Climate Technology specializes in several key sectors within climate technology, including:

• Direct air capture storage
• Mineralization
• Ocean carbon removal
• Biomass carbon removal and storage
• Frontier biotech
• Enabling Tech including MRV tools

The application process for Brinc Climate Technology is conducted online. Founders interested in joining the accelerator must complete an initial profile, after which they will receive feedback from Brinc’s team within a week.

The selection of startups is done on a rolling basis, with top applications invited for interviews.

Past Participants

Airhive (UK), CarbonBridge (USA), Formwork.io (HongKong), Poás Bioenergy (US)

Brinc provides a range of support services to startups, including:

• Matchup Day: The program culminates in a Matchup Day, where startups pitch their solutions to a curated audience of investors, enhancing their visibility and potential for securing additional funding.
  
  
• Funding Opportunities: Startups can secure investments of up to $100,000 through Brinc’s partnerships with venture capital firms.
  
  
• Commercialization Support: Comprehensive guidance offered by industry leaders and technical experts on critical challenges, including supply chain management, intellectual property, process scaling, and developing strategic partnerships.
  
  
• Tailored Programming: Customized support addressing specific technical, commercial, and fundraising challenges faced by each startup.

Third Derivative (D3) is a global climate tech accelerator co-founded by the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) and New Energy Nexus, focused on accelerating the commercialization of innovative climate technologies.

The program aims to connect startups with a comprehensive network of investors, corporate partners, and market experts to help them scale rapidly and effectively address the climate crisis. 

Third Derivative specializes in hardtech climate innovations across various sectors, including:

• Renewable Energy Generation: Technologies that produce energy from natural resources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower.
  
  
• Energy Storage Solutions: Innovations in battery technology and long-duration energy storage to enhance grid reliability.
  
  
• Electric Transportation: Advancements in electric vehicles and vehicle efficiency technologies.
  
  
• Carbon Capture and Utilization: Solutions that capture carbon emissions and convert them into usable products.
  
  
• Green Hydrogen: Technologies that produce hydrogen through renewable energy sources.
  
  
• Low Carbon Materials: Innovations in low carbon steel, cement, and other essential materials.
  
  
• Energy Efficiency: Solutions aimed at improving energy efficiency in buildings and industrial processes.

The application process for Third Derivative is conducted online through their official website. Startups interested in applying must meet specific eligibility criteria:

• A minimum of two full-time employees (no upper limit).
• A working prototype that has achieved a Technology Readiness Level 4.
• The startup must be a for-profit entity with no basic science risk.
• Professional proficiency in English is required.

Past Participants

Allegro Energy (New Zealand), Lumen Energy (US), V-Glass  (US), EDAC Labs (US)

Third Derivative provides a flexible, virtual 18-month accelerator program that includes:

• Funding Opportunities: An optional $100,000 convertible note for early-stage startups to help refine their product-market fit and prepare for future funding rounds.
  
  
• Mentorship: Access to a network of experienced mentors who provide guidance tailored to each startup’s unique needs.
  
  
• Networking Events: Opportunities to connect with strategic corporate partners, capital partners, and other entrepreneurs.
  
  
• Market Expertise: Access to RMI’s extensive knowledge base and a network of over 700 energy professionals to assist with market insights and techno-economic analysis.
  
  
• Customized Programming: Tailored support that adapts to the specific growth stage and requirements of each startup, allowing for a choose-your-own-adventure experience.

Equity Structure

Third Derivative (D3) does not typically take equity stakes in the climate tech startups that participate in its accelerator program. Instead, the accelerator focuses on providing equity-free funding and support to help startups grow and scale their innovations.

Carbon13 is a climate tech accelerator dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship aimed at addressing the climate crisis. Founded in Cambridge and now expanding to Berlin, Carbon13 focuses on building scalable ventures that can significantly reduce and remove greenhouse gas emissions. 

Carbon Capture: Technologies that capture and store carbon dioxide emissions from various sources.

• Renewable Energy: Innovations that harness natural resources, such as solar, wind, and hydro, to produce energy sustainably.
  
  
• Sustainable Agriculture: Solutions aimed at reducing the environmental impact of farming practices while enhancing food security.
  
  
• Sustainable Building: Practices and designs that minimize the environmental impact of construction.
  
  
• Sustainable Food Manufacturing: Solutions aimed at minimizing the environmental impact of food production while ensuring social equity and economic viability.
  
  
• Waste Management: Technologies that improve waste processing, recycling, and reduction of landfill contributions.

The submission process for Carbon13 is conducted online. Interested candidates are required to fill out an application form available on their website.

The application typically requires details about the applicant’s background, their interest in climate technology, and any preliminary ideas for startups they wish to develop.

Past Participants

Climalyst (Germany), Remy (UK), Fermtech  (UK), BNS (Lima)

Carbon13 offers support to entrepreneurs with just a great idea as well as those with fully-fledged start-ups who need extra assistance.  Their Venture Launchpad is a 20 week fully-remote program that offers a comprehensive range of support to startups, including:

Mentorship: Access to experienced mentors who guide founders through the startup journey.

Funding Opportunities: Potential access to funding through investors connected to Carbon13. You’ll also get a chance to pitch for investment from Carbon13 to the value of £200,000.

Networking Events: Opportunities to connect with other entrepreneurs, industry experts, and potential partners.

Access to Industry Experts: Direct engagement with specialists in various climate tech fields to refine ideas and strategies.

Equity Structure

The accelerator program is divided into phases, with the second phase culminating in a pitch for a £150,000 investment from the Carbon13 SEIS Fund.

Notably, £60,000 of this investment is returned to Carbon13 to cover program costs, allowing the startup to retain a net of £90,000 for its development

Venture For ClimateTech aims to help entrepreneurs navigate the commercialization challenges unique to climate tech.

The program focuses on accelerating the development of solutions that can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly those that align with the climate goals of New York State.

With a structured, cohort-based approach, the accelerator fosters collaboration among founders, mentors, and industry experts, enabling participants to build robust teams and secure their first customers.

Venture For ClimateTech specializes in several critical sectors within climate technology, including:

• Buildings: Innovations aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability in construction and building management.
  
  
• Transportation: Solutions focused on reducing emissions in personal and commercial transport systems.
  
  
• Grid: Technologies that improve the efficiency and reliability of energy distribution systems.
  
  
• Industry: Innovations that target emissions reduction in industrial processes and manufacturing.

The application process for Venture For ClimateTech is conducted online. Interested startups can apply through the program’s website, where they must submit an application form outlining their innovative solutions and how they align with the accelerator’s goals.

Past Participants

Carbon to Stone (US), REPWR (Canada), GenH (US), CarbonBridge(US)

The program offers its participants a range of benefits and assistance, aimed at accelerating their path to market and enhancing their impact on climate change. These include:

• Funding: Each startup in the program can receive up to $50,000 in non-dilutive funding. This financial support is crucial for early-stage companies as it allows them to develop their innovations without giving up equity.
  
  
• Mentorship and Training:  Participants receive guidance on various aspects of business development, including customer discovery, design for manufacturing, and fundraising strategies.
  
  
• Commercialization Support: The accelerator focuses on helping startups validate their market opportunities and refine their products for mass production. This includes assistance with manufacturing processes and logistics, critical for bringing hardware products to market.
  
  
• Community and Inclusivity: Venture for ClimateTech is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. It actively seeks to support underrepresented founders and aims to create opportunities for individuals from various backgrounds in the ClimateTech space.
  
  
• Access to Resources: Participants benefit from access to free or discounted services through partner organizations, which can help with inventory management, quality assurance, and fulfillment plans.

Equity Structure

Venture for ClimateTech is a non-profit accelerator program that provides funding and support to early-stage climate tech startups. Unlike for-profit accelerators, Venture for ClimateTech does not take equity in the companies it supports.

Instead, the program offers up to $50,000 in non-dilutive funding to each startup accepted into the cohort. This means the startups receive the funding without having to give up any ownership stake in their company.

By connecting startups, corporations, and public organizations, Kickstart aims to accelerate the development of impactful solutions that address pressing global challenges, particularly in climate technology.

The program not only grows the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Switzerland but also positions itself as a key player in the European innovation landscape, promoting collaboration and commercialization of cutting-edge technologies.

Kickstart Innovation specializes in the following sectors within climate technology:

• Fintech: Innovations that enhance financial services while promoting sustainability.
  
  
• Foodtech: Solutions aimed at improving food systems, including sustainable agriculture and food production practices.
  
  
• Smart Cities: Technologies that enhance urban living through sustainable infrastructure and efficient resource management.

The submission process for Kickstart Innovation is conducted online. Interested startups must fill out an application form available on the Kickstart website.

The application typically requires detailed information about the startup’s mission, technology, and potential impact on sustainability. Specific guidelines and deadlines are provided for each cohort, ensuring a streamlined application experience.

Past Participants

Boost Biomes  (US), Breeze Technologies (Germany), SunData (Switzerland), The Climate Choice (Germany)

Kickstart Innovation offers several key benefits to its participants:

• Access to a collaborative innovation ecosystem: Connects startups with corporates, cities, foundations, and universities to facilitate commercial partnerships and accelerate innovation. Also, provides access to a community of like-minded entrepreneurs and innovators.
  
  
• Scaling and Expansion Support: Helps startups scale their business through deals with Kickstart’s partner organizations.
  Supports international expansion by helping startups explore global market opportunities and develop strategies.
  
  
• Mentorship and Strategic Advice: Provides three months of support from industry experts, advisors, and investors who have successfully founded, scaled and often sold companies themselves
  Each startup is matched with an advisor who provides regular consultation and shares their network and market knowledge.
  
  
• Funding opportunities: Connects startups to a diverse investor network, including corporate venture arms, for financing rounds
  Alumni startups have raised over CHF 2.5B, making Kickstart one of the most successful European innovation platforms.
  
  
• Other Benefits: Offers free office space to startups at Kraftwerk, one of the largest innovation spaces in Zurich
  Facilitates over 100 commercial partnerships and supports 450 startups in scaling each year

Equity Structure

The Kickstart Innovation ClimateTech accelerator program does not publicly disclose a specific equity structure in its offerings.

However, it typically operates by providing support to later-stage startups through commercial collaborations rather than taking equity stakes.

Founded in 2015 by Bill Gates, Breakthrough Energy Fellows is an initiative aimed at accelerating the development of climate technologies.

The program focuses on overcoming early-stage barriers to climate technology innovation, providing support to scientists, innovators, and entrepreneurs to help them commercialize their technologies.

This program supporta a diverse range of climate technologies across various sectors,  Some key areas being addressed include:

Agriculture: Novel enzymes that prevent methane production in cattle, potentially reducing emissions while improving animal health.

Manufacturing: Technologies to reduce emissions in hard-to-decarbonize industries like cement and steel production.

Energy: Innovations in electrofuels, hydrogen, and fertilizer production.

Transportation: Solutions to cut emissions in heavy-duty transportation, one of the most challenging sectors to decarbonize.

Energy Storage: Unique companies with innovative ideas and solutions to revolutionize energy storage capacity.

The Innovator Fellowship is designed for early-stage climate technology projects that have typically raised less than $2 million in funding and are legally incorporated before the program starts.

Candidates must submit a concept paper and preliminary information during the application period.

Selected Innovators are expected to commit full-time to their projects, without external employment, during the one-year program.

Business Fellowship: Applications for the Business Fellowship will open in 2024. This program is aimed at experienced business professionals who will support Innovators in their commercialization efforts.

Past Participants

Verne (US), Chement (US), Phase Biolabs (UK), Marathon Fusion (US)

Participants in the Breakthrough Energy Fellows program receive a comprehensive suite of benefits and support:

• Financial Support: Fellows receive early-stage investment to help advance their projects from the development phase to commercialization.
  
  
• Access to Mentors: Participants are matched with experienced business mentors who guide technology validation, market fit, and commercialization strategies.
  
  
• Educational Resources: The program includes educational components that help fellows refine their business acumen and technical expertise.
  
  
• Breakthrough Energy Network: Fellows gain access to a vast network of industry partners, investors, and other key stakeholders, facilitating valuable connections that can aid in their projects.
  
  
• Collaborative Environment: The program fosters a spirit of collaboration among fellows, allowing them to share insights and experiences, which enhances their learning and innovation processes.
  
  
• Active Technology Management: Fellows participate in monthly meetings to review progress, milestones, and budgets, ensuring they stay on track with their projects.
  
  
• Resources for Commercialization: The program provides tools and resources tailored to help fellows navigate the commercialization pathway effectively.
  
  
• Post-Fellowship Support: After completing the program, alumni continue to have access to resources, events, and mentorship through the Breakthrough Energy Network, aiding their ongoing development and commercialization efforts.

Equity Structure

The Breakthrough Energy Fellows program does not publicly specify the exact equity stake it requires from its ClimateTech alumni.

However, it is known that the program operates similarly to other incubators and accelerators, which often seek equity in exchange for funding and support.

The Low Carbon Earth (LCE) Accelerator is a climate tech accelerator program that supports startups in the Asia-Pacific region who are building sustainable products and services to tackle climate change, nature loss, and pollution.

It is an annually recurring program launched by the Massive Earth Foundation (MEF) in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) through various initiatives like GO4SDGs and EmPowe

The accelerator is invites applications from startups in the Asia-Pacific region that are working on innovative solutions in the following six area

Clean Air: Initiatives aimed at improving air quality and reducing pollution.

Agri-Food: Innovations in sustainable agriculture and food production to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

Renewable Energy: Development of technologies and solutions that promote the use of renewable energy sources.

Digital Innovation: Leveraging technology to create solutions that contribute to sustainability and environmental protection.

Sustainable Mobility: Projects that focus on reducing emissions and promoting eco-friendly transportation methods.

Plastic Pollution: Solutions aimed at reducing plastic waste and addressing the challenges posed by plastic pollution in the environment.

The LCE Accelerator is open to revenue-positive startups based in the Asia-Pacific region that are working on innovative solutions to tackle climate change, nature loss, and pollution.

Women-led startups and those benefiting underserved communities are strongly encouraged to apply. Applications can be made online.

Past Participants

Ambiator (India), Etran (Thailand), RemakeHub (Shanghai), Marathon Fusion (US)

• Mentorship and Guidance: Participants receive tailored mentorship from experienced professionals in the sustainability sector, including weekly sessions with industry experts to enhance their understanding of the climate tech landscape.
  
  
• Access to Funding: Startups have the opportunity to raise capital from institutional investors, venture capitalists, and other funding bodies. Finalists may receive funding ranging from Rs 3-4 crores.
  
  
• Networking Opportunities: Participants can connect with a broad network of stakeholders, including investors, policymakers, and fellow entrepreneurs, facilitating valuable partnerships and collaborations within the climate tech ecosystem.
  
  
• Pitching Opportunities: Finalists get the chance to pitch their startups at high-profile events, such as COP28 in Dubai, providing exposure to a global audience and potential investors.
  
  
• Workshops and Resources: The program includes access to high-quality workshops, curated resources, and strategic support on business development, go-to-market strategies, and product readiness.
  
  
• Global Recognition: Startups benefit from worldwide recognition through their association with the United Nations and media coverage, enhancing their visibility in the sustainability sector.
  
  
• Focus on Inclusivity: The accelerator encourages applications from women-led startups and underrepresented groups, promoting diversity within the startup ecosystem.

Equity Structure

The program provides support without requiring any equity dilution, allowing startups to retain full ownership while benefiting from the resources and guidance offered.

Activate is a prominent accelerator program focused on fostering innovation in climate technology. The Activate program is a two-year fellowship.

It aims to empower scientists and entrepreneurs to commercialize their research and inventions that address climate change and other global challenges. 

Activate supports science and engineering  innovations across various sectors, including:

• Energy: Developing sustainable energy solutions.
• Manufacturing: Creating environmentally friendly manufacturing processes.
• Electronics: Advancing technologies that minimize environmental impact.

You can apply online to participate in this accelerator program via the Activate website. Programs range from 2 months to 6 months in duration

 Successful applicants demonstrate a compelling problem, viable solution, and commitment to building their business.

Past Participants

HiT Nano (US), Concerto Biosciences (US), Synopic (US), Lithios (US)

• Living Stipend: Fellows receive an annual living stipend of up to $110,000, which allows them to focus fully on their projects.
  
  
• Research Funding: Each fellow is granted $100,000 in research funding, along with access to at least $75,000 in additional flexible capital, enabling them to advance their projects without equity dilution.
  
  
• Dedicated Mentorship: Participants benefit from mentorship provided by a dedicated fellowship team, which includes experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts.
  
  
• Peer Community: Fellows join a community of like-minded entrepreneurs, participating in regular meetings and cohort-specific programming that fosters collaboration and shared learning.
  
  
• Entrepreneurial Training: The program offers intensive training that covers essential entrepreneurial skills, helping fellows navigate the challenges of starting and scaling a business.
  
  
• Networking Opportunities: Fellows gain access to Activate’s expansive network, which includes connections to investors, corporate partners, and other stakeholders in the climate tech sector.
  
  
• Access to Research Facilities: In partnership with institutions like Columbia University, fellows can utilize state-of-the-art research labs and resources, enhancing their project development capabilities.
  
  
• Program Events: Multiple in-person meetings and events are organized to facilitate networking and collaboration within the Activate community.

Equity Structure

The Activate ClimateTech Accelerator does not require participants to give up equity in their companies. The program is designed to support entrepreneurs by providing financial assistance, mentorship, and resources without taking ownership stakes in their startups.

BIV runs a bi-annual accelerator program designed to nurture startups that are tackling significant challenges related to food production and sustainability. The program provides selected companies with pre-seed investment and access to a robust network of mentors, industry experts, and potential partners.

The firm manages the New Protein Fund, which has over $50 million in assets under management, dedicated to investing in plant-based and cell-based startups, as well as the necessary ingredients and technologies to support these innovations.

Big Idea Ventures (BIV) focuses primarily on the food technology sector within climate tech. The firm’s investment strategy encompasses several key areas:

Alternative Proteins: BIV invests in plant-based and cell-based protein startups. This includes companies developing meat alternatives and dairy substitutes that aim to reduce reliance on traditional animal agriculture, which is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.

Sustainable Food Technologies: The firm supports innovations that enhance the sustainability of food systems, including technologies that improve food production efficiency and reduce waste. This encompasses startups that create fermentation-derived food products and other novel food technologies.

Food Supply Chain Innovations: BIV’s Generation Food Fund focuses on technologies that aim to transform the global food system by minimizing plastics, water usage, waste, and carbon emissions throughout the supply chain. This includes investments in companies that develop sustainable packaging solutions and improve food distribution methods.

Food Security Solutions: The firm addresses challenges related to food deserts and hunger by supporting startups that enhance access to nutritious food, thereby contributing to broader food security goals.

Interested startups must complete an online application form available on the Big Idea Ventures website.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, meaning that startups can apply anytime. This allows BIV to evaluate new candidates for its accelerator program continuously.

Past Participants

BioCloak (US), Nexture Bio (US), Actual Veggies (US), Novel Farms(US)

Financial Investment: Each participating startup receives a $200,000 investment, with $75,000 allocated back to the program, providing essential capital to help them grow and develop their products.

Mentorship Network: Participants gain access to a global mentorship network that includes industry experts and business leaders. This mentorship is crucial for navigating challenges and refining business strategies.

Business Expertise: The program provides guidance from business experts who assist startups in scaling their operations. This includes advice on business strategy, marketing, finance, and operations.

Industry Connections: BIV facilitates connections and introductions to key players in the industry, including manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and potential investors, which can be pivotal for business development.

Access to Facilities: Startups located in the program cities can utilize office space and a test kitchen, allowing them to develop and test their products in a professional environment.

Cohort Structure: The program runs for five months and includes a structured curriculum that fosters collaboration and learning among cohort members, enhancing peer-to-peer support and networking opportunities.

Demo Day: At the end of the program, startups typically participate in a Demo Day, where they present their progress to a wider audience of investors and industry stakeholders, increasing their visibility and potential for additional funding.

Equity Structure

Big Idea Ventures (BIV) typically requires an equity stake in the startups it invests in through its accelerator program. However, the exact percentage of equity taken can vary depending on the specific terms of each investment.