The Net Zero Technology Centre (NZTC) has opened applications for Cohort 9 of its TechX Energy Transition Accelerator, unveiling a refreshed programme for startups developing innovative technologies in Scotland.
Building on eight successful cohorts, the Aberdeen-based accelerator will continue to focus on startups developing technologies with the potential to be developed, deployed and scaled from the North East, creating skilled jobs, attracting investment and strengthening the region’s role in the energy transition.
Recently recognised as one of Europe’s Leading Startup Hubs by the Financial Times and Statista, TechX has supported 89 startups since 2018, with 85% still active. Collectively, participants have raised £232 million in equity investment and created more than 380 jobs.
ConocoPhillips will be continuing to support for a fourth cohort as a Strategic Partner, building industry pathways for founders and deepening opportunities for real-world deployment across energy systems and offshore operations.
Myrtle Dawes OBE, Chief Executive of NZTC, said: “TechX Cohort 9 is about giving entrepreneurs, engineers and innovators the funding, industry connections and support they need to transform promising ideas into commercial success. By helping more businesses start, scale and stay in Scotland, we can strengthen the regional economy while reinforcing the North East’s position as a global energy capital.”
For the first time, TechX Cohort 9 will be delivered from ETZ EnergyWorks, ETZ’s flagship innovation and incubation facility in Aberdeen, in which NZTC is a founding delivery partner. ETZ EnergyWorks is designed to accelerate the commercialisation of new energy technologies with multiple TechX alumni already taking residence at the space.
TechX cohort 8 winner, Edinburgh-based Orchid Solar (credit: Newsline Photography).
Isla Robb, Director Supply Chain, Skills and Community at Energy Transition Zone Ltd, said: "We are delighted the ninth cohort of TechX will be delivered from ETZ EnergyWorks reflecting our vision to create a hub where innovators and entrepreneurs can collaborate to develop, test and scale the technologies needed to drive the energy transition. We are particularly encouraged to see NZTC's commitment to the North East recognising the exceptional talent, expertise and entrepreneurial spirit that exists across the region."
The Net Zero Technology Centre (NZTC) is a not-for-profit organisation working with industry, government and academia to drive technology innovation and accelerate the transition to net zero. NZTC was established in 2016 as part of the Aberdeen City Region Deal, with £180 million of UK and Scottish Government funding to maximise the potential of the North Sea.
Applications for the 12-week TechX accelerator are open now until 21 September for startups developing pre-commercial hardware technologies (TRL 3–6) across three priority areas: Clean Power, Clean Fuels, Clean Production.
Successful applicants will receive £50,000 in grant funding alongside a tailored programme designed to help founders commercialise and scale their innovations.
TechX welcomes applications from across Scotland, and from elsewhere in the UK where there is a clear Scottish - ideally North East Scottish - impact, reflecting NZTC’s Aberdeen City Region Deal funding and its continued support from both UK and Scottish Government.