Startups to Watch

how to get started in climate tech: learn - project drawdown logo

We believe that tackling the climate crisis requires a sector-focused approach, addressing emissions at their source. To ensure our efforts align with real-world impact, we have prioritized five sectors identified by Project Drawdown as having the highest potential for GHG emissions reduction.

Energy

The shift to renewable energy sources, grid modernization, and improved energy storage solutions could reduce emissions by up to 420.60 GT.

how to get started in climate tech: learn - project drawdown logo

Energy: How Do We Plug In?

This sector represents one of the largest opportunities for GHG reduction. The shift to renewable energy sources, grid modernization, and improved energy storage solutions could reduce emissions by up to 420.60 GT. Startups focusing on grid modernization, energy storage, and decentralized energy solutions are making an impact in transforming how we generate, distribute, and consume electricity.

Food, Agriculture, and Land Use

This sector holds the potential to mitigate between 226.50 and 312.00 GT of emissions.

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Food, Agriculture, and Land Use: How Do We Eat and Grow Things?

This sector holds the potential to mitigate between 226.50 and 312.00 GT of emissions. The challenges lie in addressing deforestation, improving soil health, and reducing food waste. Startups promoting regenerative agriculture, plant-based alternatives, and efficient land management practices can play a critical role in transforming food systems and restoring ecosystems.

Transportation

Emissions could be reduced by up to 144.30 GT through the adoption of electric vehicles, improved public transit systems, and sustainable logistics.

how to get started in climate tech: learn - project drawdown logo

Transportation: How Do We Move Around?

Emissions could be reduced by up to 144.30 GT through the adoption of electric vehicles, improved public transit systems, and sustainable logistics. Key challenges include battery technology, charging infrastructure, and transitioning fleets. Startups innovating in mobility solutions, hydrogen fuel cells, and sustainable aviation can accelerate the sector’s decarbonization.

Buildings

Contribute heavily to emissions through energy consumption and construction practices, with potential reductions of up to 88.40 GT.

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Buildings: How We Live and Adapt?

Contribute heavily to emissions through energy consumption and construction practices, with potential reductions of up to 88.40 GT. The challenge is transitioning to energy-efficient buildings and sustainable materials while retrofitting existing infrastructure. Startups working on smart building technologies, insulation, and low-carbon materials can drive decarbonization in this sector.

Industry

Industrial processes account for a significant portion of global emissions, with a potential reduction of up to 166.00 GT.

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Industry: How Do We Build and “Circulate Things”?

Industrial processes account for a significant portion of global emissions, with a potential reduction of up to 166.00 GT. The key challenge is decarbonizing heavy industries such as cement, steel, and chemicals. Startups that introduce cleaner production technologies, alternative materials, and carbon capture solutions can reduce emissions while supporting reindustrialization.

Network Success Stories

Arda Biomaterials

Creating scalable, animal- and plastic-free materials from waste.

Stage: Seed

($5.25M)

Industry: Textile manufacturing

Location: London, UK

Arda Biomaterials has closed an oversubscribed US$5.25M (GBP4.05m) round led by Germany’s Oyster Bay Venture Capital.

Voltpost

Decarbonizing mobility in cities.

Stage: Grant

($ 2.6M)

Industry: Electric Vehicles

Location: New York, USA

Voltpost receives US$2.6m in grants to expand Level 2 EV chargers across the US, enhancing access for drivers without home charging.

Entocycle

A world-leading provider of insect farms and insect farming technology.

Stage: Series A

($ 2.6 M)

Industry: Food & AG

Location: London, UK

Insect farming technology developer, Entocycle, has secured an additional $2.6m in funding to support its growth plans across Europe and beyond.