EarthScale Programme Closes €5.8M From The Research England Development (RED) Fund

Over the next three years, it aims to support at least 60 climate-focused startups, helping them bridge the gap between early innovation and large-scale production. Led by Imperial College London, EarthScale focuses on getting startups ready for Series A funding and market deployment.

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The programme brings together a strong national network of top universities, including Cranfield, Derby, Exeter, Leeds, and Nottingham. Startups selected for EarthScale will gain access to world-class facilities and expertise—such as Exeter’s marine labs and Cranfield’s pilot-scale infrastructure. Beyond technical support, the programme offers strategic advice, help with hiring executive talent, policy engagement and guidance through regulations.

With a mix of online, in-person, and hybrid sessions, EarthScale ensures wide participation and regional collaboration.

Each university partner contributes to the programme’s strength. For instance, Imperial’s White City Innovation District and the Undaunted accelerator have supported successful startups like Notpla, which makes biodegradable packaging and won the Earthshot Prize; Nium, which develops low-energy ammonia reactors; and Multus Biotechnology, which raised €8.1M for its animal-free growth media for cultivated meat. These examples highlight the kind of climate impact EarthScale aims to scale.

By the end of the programme, participating ventures are expected to be more technically advanced, ready for manufacturing, and well-positioned for commercial success.

First announced in November 2024 by Professor Dame Jessica Corner, Executive Chair of Research England, EarthScale officially launches today. The first cohort of startups will begin receiving support in October 2025.

About EarthScale

Founded in 2025, EarthScale is a UK-wide 12-month programme designed to help climate tech startups and spinouts with strong IP move from early-stage innovation to commercial success. The initiative connects leading regional hubs to create a strong, long-term ecosystem that supports the growth and scale-up of the UK’s most promising climate tech ventures.