SuperCluster ClimAccelerator launched to drive decarbonisation

Cambridge Cleantech, Cambridge Consultants, and EIT Climate-KIC have launched the first SuperCluster ClimAccelerator aimed at accelerating industrial decarbonisation startups across the UK, France, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

The initiative forms part of the Climate Tech SuperCluster, which is recognised as the third-largest tech ecosystem globally, with a valuation exceeding USD $1 trillion. The ClimAccelerator programme will commence in spring 2025 and will run for 16 weeks in a hybrid format combining both in-person and online sessions.

The key focus of the accelerator will be to provide deep technical and commercialisation support to startups that are in the development phase of industrial decarbonisation technologies. By collaborating with Cambridge Consultants, which is part of Capgemini and known for its technical and commercialisation expertise, startups will gain access to industry resources and support, establishing credibility in the climate technology sector.

Sam Goodall, CEO at Cambridge Cleantech and Co-founder of the Climate Tech SuperCluster, said, "The Climate Tech SuperCluster mission is to support climate tech to speed and scale, and we are delighted to launch this new accelerator focused on deep tech, which is much needed to address the challenge of decarbonising industry."

Kieran Reynolds, Head of Energy and Industrial at Cambridge Consultants, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, remarking, "We're really excited to be chosen as the technology transformation partner for the ClimAccelerator alongside Cambridge Cleantech and EIT Climate-KIC, to deliver a unique programme focused on advancing new-to-the-world industrial decarbonisation technologies. By combining our deep technical expertise, with a focus on commercialisation, we aim to empower cutting-edge start-ups to achieve transformative impact in the fight against climate change."

The programme will provide selected startups with a suite of resources and support, including in-depth business planning and technology roadmapping from Cambridge Consultants. One-to-one mentoring and technical clinics will be offered to address specific technical and commercial challenges, covering areas such as advanced materials, electronics, software, and systems engineering. The selected startups will also be part of the larger Climate Tech SuperCluster ecosystem, allowing them access to investor networks and partnerships.

Alexandros Nikopoulos, Entrepreneurship Programmes Manager at EIT Climate-KIC, commented, "The SuperCluster ClimAccelerator exemplifies our mission to catalyse systemic change through innovation. This unique 16-week programme targets high-impact industrial decarbonisation, offering startups access to unparalleled resources and expertise. Cambridge Cleantech brings a proven track record in ecosystem engagement, while Cambridge Consultants' deep-tech and commercialisation capabilities add exceptional value. Together, we are creating a transformative pathway for pioneering technologies to scale and drive the decarbonisation of hard-to-abate sectors. This collaboration strengthens our collective fight against climate change and sets a new benchmark for climate innovation."

The accelerator will accept applications from 8-10 high-potential startups from the SuperCluster region and will open its application phase in January 2025. Participation in the accelerator will also include an online Demo Day and the SuperCluster Cleantech Venture Day hosted in London, providing additional exposure and networking opportunities for participating startups.