The Net Zero Technology Centre (NZTC) has opened applications for its TechX accelerator, offering up to £50,000 each to 10 early-stage companies working to achieve net zero, attract investment and create jobs.
The programme opens in a period of accelerating investment from the Scottish and UK governments, as they expand their support for clean energy initiatives and decarbonising the energy system. Achieving government ambitions for energy security, affordability and economic growth is only possible through breakthrough innovation at scale. Through targeted funding and expert guidance, TechX empowers startups to deliver energy innovation and drive progress towards net zero.
Now in its eighth year, the Aberdeen-based programme offers funding, expert guidance and access to a wide industry network, including investors, customers, technical experts and business mentors. Applications for the 14-week programme close on 5 January 2026.
TechX backs early-stage companies across key low carbon energy areas, including carbon capture, renewables and grid solutions, hydrogen and alternative fuels, and industrial decarbonisation. These efforts span technologies such as energy storage, novel electrolysers, digital monitoring and autonomous vessels.
Since 2018, TechX has supported 81 startups with 90% still active. Previous participants have collectively raised £180million in equity investment, generated £36million in revenue and created 380 jobs.
Past participants highlight the programme’s impact both regionally and nationally.
Aberdeen-based HonuWorx has taken delivery of its first underwater vehicle as it prepares for sea trials of Loggerhead, its all-electric uncrewed subsea deployment system. The company is now undergoing a £30million scale-up programme. Puls8, another North-east company, was recently acquired by an energy major for its hand-held smart tooling system, which enables rapid, non-invasive pipe and tubing identification. Both companies are now scaling up to take their technologies global.
ACUA Ocean is developing a hydrogen-powered uncrewed surface vessel for ocean monitoring. The company recently raised £1.5million in a pre-seed round, secured £4million in government research funding, and completed successful sea trials.
Mark Anderson, Chief Acceleration Officer and TechX Director at NZTC, said: “The energy transition won’t move fast enough without the most innovative technologies. Supporting entrepreneurs with future-ready ideas is essential to building a net zero, secure and affordable energy system.
“Through TechX, we offer more than funding and guidance. Startups gain access to a strong network of industry leaders, investors and advisors who can accelerate their growth and impact, helping turn innovative concepts into the commercial-scale solutions that enable Scottish and UK net zero ambitions. I’m excited to welcome applicants from Scotland, the UK and beyond."
The TechX accelerator receives funding from the Scottish and UK Governments, reflecting their shared commitment to deploying breakthrough low carbon energy technologies that deliver skilled jobs and economic security across the energy transition.
Applications are open to early- to mid-stage energy startups worldwide and may be submitted via NZTC’s website.