Looking for the best climate tech VCs for your startup’s 2025 fundraising? Finding the right venture capital firm can be challenging, especially when you want to impact the environment.
But don’t worry, as this article is here to help. We will show you the top venture capital firms that are excited about new ideas and ready to support startups like yours. They are all about helping you make a difference in climate change.
So, let’s get started.
ClimateTech Investment Outlook
Climate tech investment has shown resilience and growth in 2024, despite facing some challenges. The sector continues to attract significant funding, reflecting its importance in addressing climate change.
In the first half of 2024, climate tech venture capital investment totaled $11.3 billion, representing a 20% decline from H1 2023. However, the projected funding for climate tech in 2024 is expected to slightly surpass 2023 levels, reaching $86.6 billion when including non-dilutive capital.
The US has emerged as the top climate-tech financing market in 2024, with $6.7 billion mobilized in the first half of the year. China followed closely with $5.1 billion, while Canada secured the third position with $1.8 billion.
Despite a slowdown in overall climate-tech equity funding, the sector’s compound annual growth rate remains positive. The types of investors in climate tech are diversifying, with growth equity, private equity, and infrastructure firms joining traditional venture capitalists.
Globally, three sectors have consistently drawn the most financing: clean power, energy storage, and transportation. The energy sector, with a strong focus on energy storage, nuclear, and geothermal, is receiving the largest amount of funding in 2024.
Europe continues to play a pivotal role in driving global climate tech innovation, with substantial funding and investor participation in Q2 2024. The Middle East has also increased its climate tech investments, with the UAE emerging as a significant player in the global arena.
While equity investors are adopting a “wait and see” approach due to regulatory uncertainties and economic instability, the robust investment in companies developing improved physical solutions reflects a strategic focus on long-term sustainability and innovation within the sector.
Looking ahead, if current trends continue, total climate-tech financing for the year could reach almost $45 billion. Although this is only half of what was raised in 2023, it demonstrates the sector’s resilience and continued importance in the fight against climate change.
Watch this video by New York Times Events to learn more:
What Sectors Considered Within ClimateTech?
ClimateTech encompasses various sectors dedicated to combating climate change and promoting environmental sustainability.
Certain industries put their efforts into creating new and advanced solutions to minimize the release of greenhouse gases, enhance energy efficiency, and contribute towards a sustainable future.
So, here are the different sectors that are considered within Climate Tech:
- Renewable Energy: This sector develops solar, wind, and hydropower sources to replace fossil fuels.
- Energy Efficiency: Focuses on reducing energy use in buildings, transportation, and industries.
- Transportation: Includes electric vehicles and sustainable transport to cut emissions.
- Smart Grids and Energy Storage: Develops smart grid tech and batteries for efficient energy systems.
- Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): Captures CO2 from industries and stores it underground.
- Circular Economy: Promotes recycling and waste reduction for sustainable production.
- Agriculture and Food Systems: Uses sustainable practices and reduces food waste.
- Water and Wastewater Management: Manages water efficiently and treats wastewater.
- Building and Construction: Focuses on green building practices and energy-efficient designs.
- Climate Data and Analytics: Collects and analyzes climate data for informed decision-making.
These sectors work together to address climate change and create a more sustainable world.
Now, let’s discuss the top 30 best climate tech VCs for your startup34.
The Top 30 Climate Tech VC
Prelude Ventures
Stage: Early to Growth Stage
Prelude Ventures is a firm that specializes in venture capital investments, focusing on supporting companies that are innovating in the areas of climate change and sustainability. The firm supports startups working on solutions in clean energy, advanced materials, agriculture, and water technologies.
Prelude Ventures is committed to supporting companies that have the potential to make a significant impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving resource efficiency, thereby facilitating the transition towards a low-carbon economy.
QuantumScape, Commonwealth Fusion Systems, Lilac Solutions
Octopus Ventures
Octopus Ventures is part of the larger Octopus Group, which operates in various sectors including renewable energy, real estate, and financial services. The firm has offices in London and New York, with a network spanning from San Francisco to China.
In addition to its investment activities, Octopus Ventures is committed to corporate social responsibility. The firm focuses on increasing diversity in the technology industry, promoting sustainable investing practices, and supporting charitable causes through its Octopus Giving program.
Octopus Ventures focuses on seven key sectors:
- B2B Software
- Bio
- Climate Tech
- Consumer Tech
- Deep Tech
- Fintech
- Health
The firm specializes in backing disruptive ideas and businesses across these sectors, aiming to support companies that have the potential to transform industries and solve global challenges.
Applications can be made via the Octopus Ventures 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
Orbex(UK), Origami (UK), Drift Energy(UK), InfraFleet (UK)
Talent Support
Octopus Ventures places a strong emphasis on talent acquisition and development:
- They have a dedicated six-person (and growing) talent function
- This team assists portfolio companies in accelerating their growth by helping with recruitment and talent management
Network Access
Portfolio companies benefit from:
- Access to Octopus Ventures’ network of founders and advisors
- Connections to over 400 experienced business leaders who can provide guidance
- Access to the Octopus Venture Partners, a network of approximately 100 outstanding business leaders and entrepreneurs
Operational Support
Founders receive support from:
- Octopus Ventures’ established sector experts
- The firm’s leading people and talent team
- Hands-on support to help companies scale from early-revenue to exit
Corporate Partnerships
Octopus Ventures facilitates:
- Access to a large group of corporate partners across several sectors
- Opportunities for customer discovery conversations and product validation
- Possibility of follow-on projects and pilots with industry partners
Springboard Programme
Octopus Group has launched Springboard, a programme designed to create and accelerate new businesses:
- Focuses on deep tech businesses enabling a sustainable planet
- Offers a three-month part-time programme that is free of charge
- Provides hands-on support, advice, training, and 1-2-1 mentorship with industry experts
- Aims to help entrepreneurs address key barriers in starting a business, such as customer discovery and finding market fit
Investment Support
In addition to financial backing, Octopus Ventures offers:
- Potential for pre-seed/seed investment of £500k – £1m
- Support from experienced deep tech investors and operators
- Assistance in becoming investor-ready with a stronger idea of target markets and product-market fit
By providing this comprehensive support structure, Octopus Ventures aims to nurture high-potential startups and help them scale successfully, targeting a 10x return on initial investments.
Lowercarbon Capital
Stage: Seed, Series A, Pre-Seed
Lowercarbon Capital is a venture capital firm that funds research and invests in technologies aimed at reducing CO2 in the atmosphere. Based in New York, the firm focuses on early-stage investments, particularly in seed, series A, and pre-seed rounds.
This company is committed to assisting emerging businesses that are working on inventive solutions to combat climate change and advance a sustainable future.
Heart Aerospace, Isometric, CarbonChain.
Atomico
Stage: Seed, Series A, Series B, Series C, Series D, Series E, Pre-Seed
Atomico is an international investment firm based in London, founded in 2006 by Skype co-founder Niklas Zennström. The firm focuses on helping disruptive technology companies scale globally, with investments across various stages, from seed to series E and pre-seed.
Atomico is committed to supporting startups that have the potential to drive significant technological advancements and positive societal impact.
Robin AI, Corti, Framer.
Renewal Funds
Stage: Early-Stage, Growth Stage
Renewal Funds is a mission-driven venture capital firm based in Vancouver, Canada, that specializes in early-stage investments in companies focused on environmental sustainability and social responsibility.
The firm’s investment strategy centers around organic and natural food, green products, and environmental innovation.
Renewal Funds is dedicated to helping mission-driven entrepreneurs scale their impact, offering not only financial support but also strategic guidance and access to a network of like-minded investors and entrepreneurs.
Atomico is committed to supporting startups that have the potential to drive significant technological advancements and positive societal impact.
Alter Eco, Opus One Solutions, Sensible Organics.
Pale Blue Dot
Stage: Seed, Series A, Pre-Seed
Pale Blue Dot is a seed-stage climate tech venture fund founded in Malmö, Sweden, in 2020. The fund invests in companies that reduce or reverse the effects of climate change, focusing on seed, series A, and pre-seed stages.
Pale Blue Dot’s mission is to support startups that are working towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
Monta, Overstory, Green-Got.
Energy Impact Partners
Stage:Various stages
Energy Impact Partners (EIP, based in New York) specializes in venture capital investments aimed at expediting the shift towards a sustainable energy future. Founded in 2015, EIP has quickly become a trailblazer in climate technology investments.
EIP’s mission is to unite incumbent utilities and innovative startups to scale sustainable solutions for a net-zero carbon future.
Scythe, Dragonfly Energy, Oort.
Breakthrough Energy Ventures
Stage: Various stages
Breakthrough Energy Ventures (BEV) is a venture capital fund established by Bill Gates and a group of influential entrepreneurs and business leaders.
The fund aims to support cutting-edge companies that will lead to a net-zero carbon future. BEV invests across various sectors, including energy, agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation.
They aim to support cutting-edge ideas that could effectively minimize the release of greenhouse gases into the environment.
Viridos, Stratus Materials, Unearthly Materials.
Elemental Excelerator
Stage: Early-Stage Venture
Elemental Excelerator is a nonprofit organization dedicated to scaling climate solutions and fostering social impact.
Based in Honolulu, Hawaii, the organization supports growth-stage companies developing innovative climate technologies. Elemental Excelerator has funded over 150 firms and aims to deploy 100 transformational climate technology projects within the next five years.
Their approach emphasizes equity and access as keys to addressing climate change.
Nitricity, Community Energy Labs
ETF Partners
Stage: Early-Stage Venture, Late-Stage Venture, Venture
ETF Partners is a venture capital firm focused on sustainable innovation, investing in environmental technology companies for over 19 years. The company’s objective is to invest in businesses that are driving towards a greener future and positively impacting the environment.
ETF Partners has seen significant growth in its portfolio, with new partnerships, funding rounds, and impact reports. Their commitment to combating climate change and fostering a sustainable world is unwavering.
Net Purpose, Modern Milkman.
Energy Foundry
Stage: Early-Stage Venture, Seed
Energy Foundry is a venture capital firm that invests in promising early-stage startups in the energy and cleantech industry. They provide funding, strategic relationships, and tools that businesses need to grow and thrive.
With a unique approach that combines financial backing with valuable partnerships, Energy Foundry is dedicated to transforming innovative ideas into real-world businesses that can disrupt the energy and cleantech landscape.
Sistine Solar, Volexion,
Powerhouse Ventures
Stage: Early-Stage Venture, Seed
Powerhouse Ventures is a venture capital firm focused on supporting innovative climate tech startups that are dedicated to decarbonization.
With a strong network of over 100 investors, including trailblazing women, Powerhouse Ventures significantly impacts the fight against climate change.
Their portfolio companies are tackling diverse sectors, from building efficiency and energy storage to transportation and grid optimization.
Tyba, Carbon Collective, Zeti.
OGCI Climate
Stage: Early-Stage Venture, Late-Stage Venture
OGCI Climate is a venture investing organization that focuses on supporting the development and acceleration of innovative technologies to address climate change.
OGCI Climate invests in startups that are dedicated to finding innovative solutions to combat climate change and promote sustainable energy for a better future on a global scale.
They have invested in multiple sectors, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and carbon capture and storage.
Qnergy, Aeroseal, Boston Metal, SeekOps.
Baruch Future Ventures
Stage: Early Stage Venture, Private Equity, Seed, Venture
Baruch Future Ventures is a venture capital firm that works with entrepreneurs to shorten the time and reduce the cost of commercializing resource technology innovations.
It is known for its commitment to supporting startups that are driving sustainability and technological advancements.
Aeroseal, Alta Technologies, BiomX, Biota Technology.
Blue Bear Capital
Stage: Various stages
Blue Bear Capital is a firm that specializes in venture capital investments for technology companies with a focus on the energy, infrastructure, and climate sectors.
The company utilizes its extensive knowledge of the industry to assist new businesses that are developing creative strategies to address the challenges of climate change and foster sustainable practices for the future.
Omnidian, Mission Secure, Shoreline, FreeWire Technologies.
Braemar Energy Ventures
Stage: Various stages
Braemar Energy Ventures specializes in investing in technology and communication ventures related to the energy sector. The firm invests in innovative companies that are driving the transition to a more sustainable and efficient energy future.
Braemar Energy Ventures is known for its strategic approach to investing in the energy sector.
CarbonFree Chemicals, GetAround, LO 3 Energy, A123 Systems.
Sequoia Capital
Stage: Seed Stage, Early Stage, and Growth Stage
Since 1972, Sequoia Capital has been supporting ambitious entrepreneurs in building iconic companies; over the years, they have consistently made successful investments, which is evident from their track record. Sequoia Capital has helped a number of iconic companies grow from idea to IPO and beyond.
Apple, Google, Airbnb, Stripe.
SOSV
Stage: Early-Stage Venture, Seed
SOSV is a venture capital firm with a global presence, which primarily invests in deep technology startups that are working towards enhancing the well-being of humans and the planet. The firm offers programs to assist founders in developing breakthrough technologies and cultivates a diverse range of startups.
SOSV has made a substantial impact on its portfolio companies, with over $200 million in follow-on funding in 2022. Through its programs and funds, SOSV transforms scientists into entrepreneurs driven to save lives and protect our planet.
Novoloop, Upside Foods, NotCo.
Congruent Ventures
Stage: Early-Stage
Congruent Ventures provides funding to startups in the sustainability sector during their early stages. The firm invests in startups that are addressing critical challenges in areas such as energy, transportation, agriculture, and the circular economy.
Congruent Ventures seeks to expedite the shift towards a sustainable future by supporting pioneering solutions that have the potential to expand and create a favorable impact on the environment.
AMP Robotics, Omnidian, Leap.
Cyclotron Road
Stage: Early-Stage
The fellowship program known as Cyclotron Road provides support to exceptional entrepreneurial scientists in their efforts to drive forward technology projects that could have a significant impact on a global scale.
Based at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Cyclotron Road provides funding, mentorship, and access to world-class research facilities to help scientists turn their ideas into marketable products.
The program focuses on hard science innovations that can address pressing global challenges, including climate change and energy sustainability.
DeltaClimeVT
Stage: Accelerator for startups and seed-stage entrepreneurs
DeltaClimeVT is a business accelerator that supports startup and seed-stage entrepreneurs in the agriculture, food systems, forest products, waste management, renewable energy, and environmental technology sectors.
The program aims to assist companies in expanding their operations while also contributing positively to the economy and the environment.DeltaClimeVT provides participants with access to mentorship, networking opportunities, and resources to help them succeed.
ProsumerGrid, Enersion, M2 Thermal Solutions, ThermoAI.
Evergreen Climate Innovations
Stage: Early-Stage
Evergreen Climate Innovations is a nonprofit that provides assistance to startups in their early stages, focusing on developing solutions for clean energy, environmental sustainability, and decarbonization.
Startups can benefit from the resources the trust provides, including funding, mentorship, and access to an industry expert network, which can help them thrive and succeed. Evergreen Climate Innovations aims to expedite the growth and acceptance of clean energy technologies in the Midwest and other areas beyond.
75F, AMS, Azumo.
Chrysalix Venture Capital
Stage: Early-Stage
Chrysalix Venture Capital is a venture capital firm that invests in industrial innovation, focusing on technologies that drive sustainability and resource efficiency.
The firm supports startups that are developing solutions in areas such as energy, materials, and resource productivity. Chrysalix Venture Capital aims to bridge the gap between innovative technologies and the industries that can benefit from them, fostering a more sustainable future.
Axine Water Technologies, MineSense Technologies, GaN Systems.
Contrarian Ventures
Stage: Early-Stage
Contrarian Ventures is a venture capital firm focusing on investments in energy, mobility, and climate tech startups. The firm supports innovative companies that are addressing the challenges of the energy transition and working towards a more sustainable future.
Contrarian Ventures is dedicated to backing entrepreneurs who are taking a contrarian approach to solving some of the world’s most pressing problems.
Fusebox, Hepta Airborne, Atlant 3D Nanosystems.
Earthshot Ventures
Stage: Early-Stage
Earthshot Ventures provides support to entrepreneurs who are working towards addressing the issue of climate change. This venture capital firm invests in startups that are developing innovative solutions aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainability.
Earthshot Ventures aims to accelerate the growth of companies that have the potential to make a significant impact on the environment. The firm is part of the broader Earthshot network, including the Elemental Excelerator and other climate and environmental solutions initiatives.
Kanin Energy, SuperCircle, and Parade
Energize Capital
Stage: Early to Growth Stage
Energize Capital is a digital innovation-focused venture capital firm that invests in startups driving the digital transformation of energy and sustainable industries.
The firm targets early to growth-stage companies in cybersecurity, mobility, data analytics, operational efficiency, and renewable energy sectors. Energize Ventures aims to empower the next wave of technology solutions that make energy and sustainable industries more affordable, reliable, and secure.
DroneDeploy, Volta Charging, Aurora Solar.
Generation Investment Management
Stage: Various Stages
Al Gore and David Blood co-founded Generation Investment Management, which focuses on long-term investing, integrated sustainability research, and client alignment.
It is dedicated to investment management services considering sustainability factors across public and private markets. The firm believes that sustainable investing is the bedrock of a strong investment strategy; its goal is to achieve exceptional investment results through a steadfast commitment to a long-term approach. We also place great emphasis on incorporating sustainability research into our rigorous framework of traditional financial analysis.
Ocado, Toast, Sophia Genetics.
Greensoil Proptech Ventures
Stage: Early to Growth Stage
Greensoil Proptech Ventures invests in companies transforming the built environment, contributing to sustainability and climate resilience.
Focusing on Proptech Innovations, the firm supports startups that improve the performance, efficiency, and sustainability of real estate, aiming to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings and enhance the built environment.
Greensoil Proptech Ventures is on a mission to revolutionize the real estate sector through technology, contributing significantly to environmental sustainability. Learn more at Greensoil Proptech Ventures.
CarbonCure, Fifth Wall, Measurabl.
Greentown Labs
Stage: Incubator
Greentown Labs is North America’s largest cleantech startup incubator, providing entrepreneurs with the resources, connections, and equipment necessary to develop their ventures.
Focused on cleantech and sustainable technology startups, Greentown Labs offers office space, lab space, and a vibrant community for startups looking to solve the world’s biggest environmental challenges.
Accio Energy, Altaeros, Ambri.
Radicle Impact
Stage: Early-Stage
Radicle Impact is a venture capital firm that focuses on supporting companies addressing social and environmental challenges. With a commitment to radical change for the betterment of society and the planet, Radicle Impact invests in clean energy, sustainable agriculture, financial inclusion, and health sectors.
The firm aims to generate financial returns and meaningful societal impact, supporting entrepreneurs and businesses contributing to a more equitable and sustainable world.
Beneficial State Bank, SunFunder, Mosaic.
Final Words
So, these are some of the best climate tech VCs you can consider for your startup in 2025. Each of these firms brings a unique approach to investing, with a shared focus on supporting innovative solutions to combat climate change.
Whether you’re developing clean energy technologies, sustainable agriculture systems, or other environmentally friendly innovations, these VCs can provide the funding, resources, and expertise you need to grow your business and positively impact the planet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Climate Tech VC?
A Climate Tech VC (Venture Capitalist) is an investor or investment firm that provides capital to startups and early-stage companies focused on developing technologies and solutions to address climate change.
What types of companies do Climate Tech VCs typically invest in?
They invest in companies working on renewable energy, energy storage, carbon capture, sustainable agriculture, waste management, water conservation, and other technologies aimed at mitigating climate change.
How can partnering with a Climate Tech VC benefit a startup?
Partnering with a Climate Tech VC can provide startups with not only financial support but also mentorship, industry connections, strategic guidance, and increased credibility in the market.
What should startups look for when choosing a Climate Tech VC?
Startups should look for VCs with a strong track record in climate tech investments, relevant industry expertise, a network of partners and advisors, and a shared vision for sustainability and impact.
What are the challenges of securing funding from a Climate Tech VC?
Challenges include intense competition for funding, the need to demonstrate a clear path to scalability and profitability, meeting rigorous due diligence requirements, and aligning with the investor’s specific focus and criteria.