Tech Nation Unveils 25 Climate Startups in Its Relaunched Program
Introduction
In 2024, Tech Nation, a venerable organization dedicated to nurturing tech startups in the UK, unveiled an exciting cohort of 25 climate startups. This marks the initial program since the organization’s rebirth sans government funding. This six-month program is designed to offer comprehensive support to participating businesses in crucial areas such as fundraising, customer acquisition, and overall business growth.
Program Highlights
The chosen startups represent a diverse spectrum of groundbreaking solutions addressing various climate-related challenges. They encompass companies working on material innovation, reusable packaging development, decarbonization of housing, and more. This cohort of startups will draw upon expert guidance and mentorship from renowned organizations such as Google X, Oxford University, and HSBC.
Notable Startups
Among the participating startups, Birmingham-based Furbnow stands out, having recently secured a successful fundraising of £950,000. The company specializes in retrofitting homes to curtail carbon emissions, contributing to the UK’s efforts towards sustainable housing. Other notable startups include Zedify, an electric cargo bike business promoting eco-friendly transportation, and Future Greens Farms, a carbon-negative urban farming firm.
Diversity and Inclusion
Tech Nation places great emphasis on diversity and inclusion within its programs. In this climate program, 40% of the founders are women, and over half of the startups are based outside of London, reflecting the organization’s commitment to fostering a diverse and geographically inclusive startup ecosystem.
Program History and Relaunch
The climate program has a proven track record of supporting climate tech startups. Over the past three years, it has supported over 100 startups, including notable success stories like Olio, a food and goods sharing app. The current cohort marks the first since the Tech Nation brand was acquired by Founders Forum Group.
Tech Nation’s Relaunch and Future Goals
In March 2023, Tech Nation ceased operations due to the loss of a substantial government grant. However, the organization’s relaunch in October 2023 under the leadership of Founders Forum Group CEO Carolyn Dawson signaled a renewed commitment to supporting startups. Tech Nation aims to assist startups in its cohorts in securing a combined £10bn in funding over the next five years, spurring growth and innovation in the UK’s technology sector.
Quotes from Key Figures
Carolyn Dawson, CEO of Founders Forum Group, expressed her enthusiasm for the climate program, highlighting its role in promoting innovative climate solutions and bolstering the UK’s reputation as a hub for climate development.
Erin Platts, CEO of HSBC Innovation Banking, emphasized the bank’s commitment to supporting climate tech companies at various stages of growth. HSBC recognizes Tech Nation’s pivotal role in fostering innovation in the climate tech sector and is thrilled to empower the promising cohort of startups.
Full List of Tech Nation’s 2024 Climate Program Startups
The following is the exhaustive list of startups participating in Tech Nation’s 2024 climate program:
1. Aceleron
2. Aeropowder
3. Airobotics
4. AirZoon
5. Arbolus
6. Biohm
7. ClimateAi
8. Crowdless
9. ENDVA
10. Evocco
11. Furbnow
12. Future Greens Farms
13. Greenbyte
14. Greendeck
15. Greener
16. Gridless
17. Hubbub
18. Mable
19. Matillion
20. Moixa
21. Olio
22. Pavegen
23. Predictive Nature
24. Tapp Water
25. Zedify
Conclusion
Tech Nation’s relaunched climate program represents a significant step forward in the UK’s commitment to addressing climate change through innovation and entrepreneurship. The diverse cohort of startups participating in the program showcases the UK’s vibrant climate tech ecosystem and its potential to drive positive change. With the support of Tech Nation and its partners, these startups are poised to make a meaningful impact on the fight against climate change.