We welcome applications from ventures that meet the following criteria:

The business

• Classified as in the LCEGS (Low Carbon and Environmental Goods and Services) sector, i.e. developing a product or service that significantly reduces or removes greenhouse gas emissions, or operates in a sector that plays a vital role in climate change mitigation or adaptation.
• Registered and operating in the UK.
• Demonstrated market and commercial readiness (Level 6), including a commercial model showing economic viability (data from test sales), and first commercial sales and implemented sales process (evidence of initial traction).
• Seed investment raised.

The solution

• For cohort 2, we are expanding the eligibility criteria to include software climate solutions, alongside hardware or hybrid solutions. 
• Technology or Software Readiness Levels 5 or 6, i.e. technology validated or demonstrated in a relevant environment, or software has early customer usage with repeat engagement. 
• Ready to consider manufacturing in a relevant environment.
• Founded on STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) research.
• Funded by UK research councils is preferred.

You don’t need to meet all the criteria to apply; some requirements offer some flexibility.

No university affiliation required. Applicants can come from any university or none, with any educational or professional background.

While some startups may be based on university research, it’s not required. Many UK innovations emerge from a variety of research organisations and independent founders, and we welcome applications from them.

We define deep tech broadly: science-based solutions grounded in significant research or engineering innovation. Software solutions are eligible for this cohort provided that they are founded on STEM research.  

EarthScale is a UK-wide programme led by Imperial College London, co-funded by the Research England Development (RED) Fund until 2028. 

Our unique model includes a network of regional university-led hubs, designed to connect local businesses, innovators, investors, and public sector partners. Each hub is embedded in a thriving local ecosystem, offering tailored support and deep sector expertise. Find out more about Regional hubs here.  

Participants will have access to a broad network of academic and industry contacts, as well as specialised facilities and resources. Access to specific academic experts or facilities is managed through our innovation voucher mechanism, which forms part of the overall programme support, up to a maximum estimated value of £14,000 and may depend on availability and funding We will work closely with each venture to identify and connect you with the most relevant support where possible. 

EarthScale does not provide any grants, funding or cash awards. The estimated value of the in-kind support is approximately £25,000 per venture, although the exact value may vary depending on the bespoke support received.  

The programme is co-funded by the Research England fund, part of UKRI. The support provided under the programme counts as a subsidy under the Minimal Financial Assistance (MFA) category. You will therefore receive a clear value breakdown of the support you’ve received.  

No. Neither EarthScale nor its affiliated partners are seeking an equity stake.

Unlike traditional accelerator programmes, EarthScale provides support primarily based on a bespoke venture diagnostic. It is one of our flagship tools, designed to help ventures identify key challenges, define measurable metrics, and map out relevant tailored support. It also provides a framework for accountability, enabling ventures to track their progress throughout the programme.

There are no restrictions on participating in other programmes. However, EarthScale requires a strong level of commitment from all participants, and involvement in multiple initiatives can be time-consuming. We’re happy to discuss this on a case-by-case basis, but in general, we’re open to ventures receiving support from other sources as well.

You don’t need to meet all the criteria to apply; some requirements have a level of flexibility, and we encourage you to submit an application.  

The data we receive from ventures seeking this type of support will also help shape the criteria for the next cohort of the EarthScale programme.   

Yes, EarthScale is initially funded until March 2028 and we are planning to recruit another cohort towards the end of 2026. 

Unfortunately, we are not able to sponsor visas at this time. 

Yes. Support provided under the programme counts as subsidy under the Minimal Financial Assistance (MFA) category. 

• It may affect your SEIS capacity 

• You’ll need to declare any other aid received over the past three fiscal years 

• A formal declaration is required confirming you will not exceed the £315,000 cap over a three-year period.  

Applicants will be notified of interview invitations by 6 May and of final selection outcomes by 25 May 2026. 
 
For the full application timeline, visit our Applying for EarthScale page. 

We’re committed to accessibility. If you require reasonable adjustments for the application process, please email us at [email protected]. 

Reach out to us at [email protected] or fill in our contact form. We’re here to help!