> Founders tackling climate change with science- or tech-based innovations – including deep-tech

> Startups and spinouts at early-stage (pre-seed or seed)

> Ventures that are UK-based – companies registered in the UK or willing to do so

> Teams that are able to attend in-person sessions in London

> Up to £20k equity-free grant funding

> 12-month support programme to move from lab to commercial traction

> Office space in the White City Innovation District

> Imperial College London’s world class facilities, expertise, and network

> Coaches and mentors from experienced entrepreneurs & industry experts

EarthScale is aimed at ventures developing climate solutions for net zero or climate resilience at TRL/SwRL 5-6, with seed funding already raised and plans to raise Series A by the end of the programme. The focus is on hardware and hybrid solutions, with limited places for software-only ventures. You do not need a university affiliation to apply.

Each startup receives a tailored venture diagnostic to develop a bespoke programme of support. This could
include:

> Access to cutting-edge labs, facilities and technical expertise across the UK, including via pre-paid innovation vouchers from participating universities.

> Investor introductions, one-to-one investment readiness coaching, and workshops on topics such as financial modelling and non-dilutive funding.

> Guidance on hiring strategy and attracting the right senior talent.

> Opportunities to engage with high-level policymakers and experts on certifications, procurement and regulatory hurdles.

> The CIC is open to postgraduate students worldwide.

> Teams consist of 2-6 members, with at least one member being a postgraduate student enrolled in an MSc, MBA, PhD programme, or equivalent.

> Teams can consist of members from the same university or a variety of universities.

> Solutions must be original to those in the team (i.e., you cannot pitch a solution which a company or platform has already developed).