EarthScale, a new UK-wide initiative, supports ClimateTech startups and spinouts transitioning from prototype to commercial success. The 12-month program aims to bridge the gap from early-stage innovation to scalable production, focusing on fundraising readiness and commercial deployment to guide ventures toward securing Series A investment.
The round was led by the Research England Development Fund, which provided $6.3 million (€5.8 million) in backing. The initiative is led by Imperial College London and involves a national network of universities, including Cranfield University, the University of Derby, the University of Exeter, the University of Leeds, and the University of Nottingham.
The program intends to support at least 60 climate-focused startups over the next three years. Participating ventures gain access to technical expertise and facilities across the UK, such as the University of Exeter’s marine facilities and Cranfield’s pilot-scale infrastructure. EarthScale also provides strategic scaling advice, executive talent recruitment, policy engagement opportunities, and guidance through regulatory landscapes.
Delivery of the program combines online, in-person, and hybrid sessions. Imperial College London contributes its White City Innovation District, Imperial Enterprise Lab, and Undaunted accelerator. Other university contributions include Derby’s Institute for Innovation in Sustainable Engineering, Leeds’ Nexus Innovation Hub, Exeter’s Green Futures Solutions, and Nottingham’s Energy Institute. Imperial College London has previously supported companies like Notpla, which develops biodegradable packaging, Nium, focused on low-energy ammonia production, and Multus Biotechnology, which creates animal-free growth media for cultivated meat.
"The goal of EarthScale is that, by the end of the 12-month programme, participating ventures will have significantly progressed in their technical development, manufacturing readiness, and commercial potential, placing them in a strong position to scale climate impact," commented Professor Dame Jessica Corner, Executive Chair of Research England.
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EarthScale was first announced in November 2024, with the official launch occurring on June 26, 2025. The first startups are scheduled to receive support starting in October 2025.
