Apply now
Applications for our 2026 cohort are now open. Submit your application through our online portal.
Application deadline:
5 January 2026 at 23:59 (GMT)
Our TechX Accelerator is an intensive 14-week programme for innovative startups with the potential to transform the future of affordable, sustainable energy. Connect with our extensive energy network, access technology experts and mentors, and secure funding to turn your concept into a real-world solution that can drive net zero.
- Up to £50k grant per startup*
- Open to startups globally
- Targeting startups at technology readiness level 3 to 6
- Open to multi-team founders
*Note: Each startup awarded a place on the programme must sign an Advanced Subscription Agreement (ASA) before the programme starts. The ASA is also known as a SAFE or Simple Agreement for Future Equity. Under the ASA, the grant funding from NZTC converts into equity held by NZTC under certain conditions.
Programme Benefits
Receive up to £50,000 grant funding, expert support and mentoring on:
Testing your value proposition and business model with technical experts and potential industrial customers across the value chain.
Creating a prototype or minimum viable product.
Pitching to potential customers at our final showcase Demo Day.
Securing field trials to pilot your solution with industry, including ConocoPhillips and our other partners.
Structuring capital raising and pitches to investors, before putting it into practice in investor meetings.
Building diverse teams.
Connecting into the Net Zero Technology Centre’s extensive energy industry network and maximising the benefit.
Articulating your startup story and developing your brand.
Structuring your business optimally from a legal and tax perspective.
Calculating and demonstrating your technology’s carbon impact.
Protecting your IP, developing an IP strategy and applying for patents.
Growing your company with an additional two years of business support and co-working space.
Testing your value proposition and business model with technical experts and potential industrial customers across the value chain.
Creating a prototype or minimum viable product.
Pitching to potential customers at our final showcase Demo Day.
Securing field trials to pilot your solution with industry, including ConocoPhillips and our other partners.
Structuring capital raising and pitches to investors, before putting it into practice in investor meetings.
Building diverse teams.
Connecting into the Net Zero Technology Centre’s extensive energy industry network and maximising the benefit.
Articulating your startup story and developing your brand.
Structuring your business optimally from a legal and tax perspective.
Calculating and demonstrating your technology’s carbon impact.
Protecting your IP, developing an IP strategy and applying for patents.
Growing your company with an additional two years of business support and co-working space.
Our technology focus areas
- Carbon capture, utilisation and storage
- Renewables and grid
- Hydrogen and alternative fuels
- Industrial decarbonisation
Global partners
We draw on expertise and support from our global partner network. From provision of workshops and delivery sessions, to potential customers who can advance technology and prototype development, our partners are key to unlocking the success of our startups.
Strategic Partner
Professional Services Partner
Contact
Our team are here to help
If you have any questions or would like to request further information, complete the form and one of our teach will be in touch shortly.
Edward
Pollock
TechX Acceleration Manager
Edward Pollock
With a rich background in entrepreneurship, Edward manages the delivery of the Net Zero Technology Centre’s award-winning TechX Accelerator. Prior to this, he worked to create and deliver the first Startup Accelerator at Robert Gordon University, as well as leading on hosting enterprise events, training programmes and credit-bearing short courses. With a degree in Event Management, Edward is experienced in founding new events, starting small companies and charities. Edward recently completed courses in entrepreneurship at Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, achieving Fellowship of Enterprise Educators UK and the Higher Education Academy. In 2021, Edward was awarded Rising Star in Enterprise Education for the UK. Edward has also held roles as a lecturer, a member of the Board of Governors and as a university quality reviewer.
Mariah
Forbes
TechX Acceleration Lead
Mariah Forbes
Mariah Forbes has over five years of experience in start-up program creation, management, and facilitation, as well as stakeholder engagement across industry, investors, and mentors.
As TechX Accelerator Lead, Mariah oversees the delivery of the TechX Clean Energy Accelerator, including program and curriculum planning, applicant attraction, and start-up onboarding. She manages stakeholder relationships, coordinates milestone events such as TechX Roadshows and Demo Day, and supports start-ups through assessment and investor engagement processes.
