EarthScale
Climate tech solutions.
Built to scale.
Overview
Across the UK, high-potential climate innovations are emerging but many of these ventures stall between prototype and commercial success. That’s where EarthScale comes in.
EarthScale is a UK-wide, 12-month programme designed to support IP-rich, climate tech ventures to scale, navigate manufacturing and raise Series A funding.
Imperial College London leads the programme through a collaboration between the Imperial Enterprise Lab and Undaunted.
EarthScale brings together a growing collaborative network of university-led regional hubs, including Imperial College London, Cranfield University, the University of Derby, the University of Exeter, the University of Leeds and the University of Nottingham, which have committed to providing access to in-house expertise and facilities as well as bespoke support and engagement activities.
Applications for Cohort 2 have now closed. Applications for Cohort 3 will open in late 2026.
Meet the cohort
16 innovative climate tech ventures from across the UK have been selected for EarthScale’s first-ever cohort
Entry requirements
This programme is open to ventures who are:
- Developing solutions that contribute to net zero and/or support climate change mitigation or adaptation
- Registered and operating in the UK
- Solution being at Technology/Software Readiness Levels 5 or 6
- Seed investment raised
Support to offer
A 12-month cohort-based high-impact programme offering tailored support to scale your climate tech solution:
World-class technical and manufacturing and facilities
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- Sourcing and matching your venture to technical expertise and manufacturing facilities.
- Pre-paid vouchers (up to a maximum estimated value of £14,000) for prototyping and research access.
- Invites to exclusive events and introductions to UK manufacturers.
- Legal assistance with IP and manufacturing compliance.
Expert enterprise development
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- 1:1 investment readiness coaching and tailored introductions to investors.
- Networking with investors and corporates via events, speed meetings, and dinners.
- Workshops on financial modelling and non-dilutive funding.
- Storytelling training to effectively market.
- Support in developing a long-term scaling roadmap and commercial partnerships.
Talent and peer engagement
- Peer coaching and advice from founders, NEDs, and operators within the EarthScale and partner university climate innovation ecosystem.
- Workshops on recruitment, company culture, and building diverse teams.
- Leadership and wellbeing support, including mindset coaching and resilience resources.
- Focus on executive talent and shared learning from fellow founders.
Policy and regulation navigation
- Roundtables with policymakers and policy consultation support.
- Regular updates on policy insights.
- Guidance on certifications and regulatory compliance.
- Help navigating public and private procurement systems.
Programme timeline
This timeline applies to cohort 2:
| Applications close | 13 April 2026 at 23.59 (BST) |
| Interviews for shortlisted applicants | May 2026 |
| Application outcome | 25 May 2026 |
| Cohort 2 programme start | June 2026 |
| Cohort 2 programme end | June 2027 |
How to apply
Applications for Cohort 2 have now closed. Applications for Cohort 3 will open late 2026.
When applications are open, ventures can apply by filling out the application form available on the EarthScale website. After submission, applications are reviewed, and selected ventures are contacted for further steps.
FAQs
Who can apply?
We welcome applications from ventures that meet the following criteria:
The business
- Classified as in the LCEGS (Low Carbon and Environmental Goods and Services) sector, i.e. developing a product or service that significantly reduces or removes greenhouse gas emissions, or operates in a sector that plays a vital role in climate change mitigation or adaptation.
- Registered and operating in the UK.
- Demonstrated market and commercial readiness (Level 6), including a commercial model showing economic viability (data from test sales), and first commercial sales and implemented sales process (evidence of initial traction).
- Seed investment raised.
The solution
- For cohort 2, we are expanding the eligibility criteria to include software climate solutions, alongside hardware or hybrid solutions.
- Technology or Software Readiness Levels 5 or 6, i.e. technology validated or demonstrated in a relevant environment, or software has early customer usage with repeat engagement.
- Ready to consider manufacturing in a relevant environment.
- Founded on STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) research.
- Funded by UK research councils is preferred.
You don’t need to meet all the criteria to apply; some requirements offer some flexibility
What facilities and experts can I access?
We know one size doesn’t fit all. That’s why every venture accepted into the programme receives a bespoke venture diagnostic, so we can understand your specific needs and deliver the right support to help you scale successfully.
Participants will have access to a broad network of academic and industry contacts, as well as specialised facilities and resources. Access to specific academic experts or facilities is managed through our pre-paid voucher mechanism, which forms part of the overall programme support, up to a maximum estimated value of £14,000 and may depend on availability and funding We will work closely with each venture to identify and connect you with the most relevant support where possible.
By the end of the 12-month journey, our goal is for each venture to have advanced significantly in their technical, manufacturing, and commercial readiness – putting you in a strong position to raise Series A investment.
How can I apply for EarthScale?
Ventures can apply by filling out the application form available on the EarthScale website. Applications for cohort 2 have now closed. Applications for cohort 3 will open in late 2026.
After submission, applications are reviewed by a selection committee with expertise in climate innovation, research, manufacturing, and investment. The selection process consists of an application form and a shortlist for interview.
Is there a cost associated with the services provided by EarthScale?
No, the support provided by EarthScale is offered pro bono, meaning it is free of charge to the eligible ventures.
Neither EarthScale nor its affiliated partners are seeking an equity stake.
I have more questions. How can I learn more about EarthScale?
Please visit the EarthScale website for our full FAQ, or get in touch with the team directly at [email protected].