Third Derivative is a global climate tech ecosystem founded by RMI and New Energy Nexus in December 2020. The organization builds an inclusive, collaborative platform that rapidly finds, funds, and scales climate tech innovation while transforming markets. Through a vast network of deep experts, corporate partners, and investors, Third Derivative accelerates the commercialization path for climate tech startups tackling emissions challenges across all sectors.
The organization launched with 46 companies, the largest cohort of climate tech companies in the world at the time. Third Derivative bridges finance and resource gaps through its flexible, highly curated accelerator programs that enable startups to focus on their unique needs and opportunities, helping them go to market faster with breakthrough innovations.
Third Derivative focuses on climate tech startups tackling global billion-dollar markets and hard-to-abate sectors across all emissions categories. The organization embraces complexity, including hard science and hard tech solutions, undertaking deep diligence on tough-to-understand, under-hyped innovations often overlooked by traditional investors and accelerators.
From batteries and biofuels to business model innovations, Third Derivative supports startups addressing emissions challenges in industrial, built environment, and other critical sectors that will determine climate progress in this decisive decade.
Expansive Global Network
Access to a vast network of deep experts, corporate partners, investors, and mentors across three continents to accelerate commercialization and market entry.
Flexible Accelerator Programs
Highly curated programming tailored to each startup's unique needs and opportunities, including specialized cohorts for industrial innovation and regional partnerships.
Inclusive Ecosystem Approach
Commitment to supporting climate tech entrepreneurs globally, regardless of location, providing funding access and resources to breakthrough thinkers who deserve recognition.
Deep Technical Expertise
Focus on hard science and hard tech solutions with rigorous diligence on complex, under-hyped innovations often overlooked by other investors and accelerators.
Focus areas
