A net zero technology centre based in Aberdeen has launched a mentoring programme to support budding entrepreneurs in the ‘clean energy’ sector.
The TechX Accelerator is offering successful companies up to £100,000 in grant funding and expert support to develop its products and services that can help Scotland transition to a carbon free future.
The centre, which seeks to support start-ups with diverse founder teams, has a focus on renewable energy technologies, green and blue hydrogen and other clean fuels, carbon capture, usage and storage (CCUS), digitalisation and technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the oil and gas industry.
The 15-week intensive programme will offer up to 12 start-ups access to the centre’s extensive industry network. Start-ups will receive support in a range of areas; from creating a minimum viable product and testing the value proposition, to securing field trials and pitching to potential customers.
Additional guidance comes from the programme’s diverse range of mentors which include entrepreneurs, industry leaders and investors. The accelerator will continue to be delivered in a virtual format allowing for more flexible participation.
This year, the centre is aiming to achieve 30% of shortlisted start-ups to be led by female founders or co-founders.
Mark Anderson, TechX Director, said: “We are delighted to be opening applications for the fourth year of the TechX accelerator. Innovative start-ups offering game-changing technology solutions will play a pivotal role in accelerating the transition to an affordable net zero energy industry. And for the first time, the programme is solely focused on start-ups developing clean energy technologies.
“I look forward to seeing the ground-breaking solutions that emerge from this next cohort, and the support they can offer in helping the energy industry meet its carbon reduction targets, especially with COP26 happening this year in Scotland.”
Colette Cohen OBE, CEO of the Net Zero Technology Centre, added: “TechX plays an instrumental role in building a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem and supply chain. Start-ups that tap into the next generation of net zero technologies are key to delivering an affordable net zero energy industry.
“We are committed to expanding diversity in our TechX programme, continuing a virtual format should also support this aim. We are hoping to see strong gender diverse founder teams applying as TechX offers a unique support system which allows start-ups to accelerate their development journey. We look forward to meeting the next cohort and introducing them to the Net Zero Technology Centre’s extensive network, which offers a wealth of knowledge and a world of opportunities.”
