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Sustainable Accelerator Ltd., operating under the brand Sustainable Ventures, has been a significant player in the climate tech investment sector since its inception in 2011. The firm is based in London and focuses on sustainability by investing in innovative startups that tackle climate challenges. Sustainable Accelerator has developed a unique crowdfunding approach that allows retail investors to participate in funding climate tech ventures, thereby creating a supportive ecosystem for over 500 companies across the UK and Europe.
Currently, Sustainable Accelerator manages multiple EIS/SEIS crowdfunded funds, with the latest being the SA7 fund. This fund targets investments ranging from £150,000 to £350,000 per company, supporting early-stage ventures in sectors such as energy, agritech, mobility, and the circular economy. The firm has successfully invested in over 55 companies, demonstrating a strong commitment to fostering sustainable innovation.
Notable milestones include the successful exits of portfolio companies like Zeigo, acquired by Schneider Electric in 2022, and Sennen, acquired by Octopus Energy. The firm emphasizes a 12-month embedded accelerator model, which provides deeper engagement and support compared to traditional short-term accelerators, enhancing the growth potential of their startups.
Sustainable Accelerator Ltd. focuses on climate tech investments, specifically targeting sectors such as energy, agritech, mobility, and the circular economy. The firm operates across Europe, particularly in the United Kingdom, and invests at the pre-seed and seed stages. Check sizes typically range from $60,000 to $420,000, with the latest fund, SA7, aiming for investments between £150,000 and £350,000 per company.
The investment strategy is built around a crowdfunding model that utilizes EIS/SEIS tax wrappers to aggregate retail investor capital. This approach allows Sustainable Accelerator to support early-stage companies through a comprehensive 12-month embedded accelerator program. This program not only provides financial backing but also includes mentorship, resources, and access to a network of investors and industry experts, which is crucial for the growth of startups in the climate tech sector.
In addition to financial support, the firm looks for founders who are passionate about sustainability and have a clear vision for their companies. They prefer to engage deeply with their portfolio companies, ensuring that they have the necessary resources and guidance to succeed in a competitive market.
Sustainable Accelerator Ltd. has built a diverse portfolio of over 55 companies, focusing on innovative solutions in climate tech. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies represent a range of innovative approaches to addressing climate challenges, from energy solutions to sustainable agriculture. The firm’s focus on sectors like mobility and the circular economy further underscores its commitment to fostering sustainable practices across various industries.
To pitch to Sustainable Accelerator Ltd., founders should submit their proposals through the crowdfunding platform Republic, where the firm lists its investment opportunities. It is essential to include a detailed deck that outlines the startup's vision, market potential, and sustainability impact.
Response times can vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks after submission. Warm introductions can be beneficial, as they may increase the chances of getting noticed by the investment team.
Recent activity from Sustainable Accelerator Ltd. includes the successful exit of Zeigo, which was acquired by Schneider Electric in 2022. Prior to this, Sennen was acquired by Octopus Energy, showcasing the firm's ability to identify and support high-potential startups in the climate tech sector.
Additionally, portfolio company Rovco raised £7.8 million, achieving a 13x valuation uplift in just 35 months post-investment. This demonstrates the effectiveness of Sustainable Accelerator Ltd.'s investment strategy and the growth potential of its portfolio companies.
As of 2023, Sustainable Accelerator Ltd. continues to expand its portfolio and resources for startups, having supported over 500 companies in the climate tech ecosystem.
What are the investment criteria for Sustainable Accelerator Ltd.?
Sustainable Accelerator Ltd. primarily invests in early-stage climate tech companies at the pre-seed and seed stages. They focus on sectors such as energy, agritech, mobility, and the circular economy. The firm looks for startups that demonstrate a clear commitment to sustainability and have innovative solutions to climate challenges.
How can founders apply or pitch to Sustainable Accelerator Ltd.?
Founders can pitch their startups through the crowdfunding platform Republic, where Sustainable Accelerator Ltd. lists its investment opportunities. The firm encourages detailed presentations that outline the startup's vision, market potential, and sustainability impact.
What makes Sustainable Accelerator Ltd. different from other investors?
The firm differentiates itself through its unique crowdfunding model and a 12-month embedded accelerator program. This model allows for deeper engagement with portfolio companies compared to traditional accelerators, which typically last only three months. Sustainable Accelerator Ltd. provides ongoing mentorship and resources throughout the year.
What is the geographic scope of Sustainable Accelerator Ltd.'s investments?
Sustainable Accelerator Ltd. primarily focuses on investments within the United Kingdom and Europe. Their strategy is to support startups that are addressing climate challenges in these regions.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Investment sizes typically range from $60,000 to $420,000, with the latest fund, SA7, targeting investments between £150,000 and £350,000 per company.
What kind of post-investment involvement can portfolio companies expect?
Portfolio companies benefit from a comprehensive 12-month accelerator program that includes mentorship, access to a network of investors and industry experts, and ongoing support to help them scale their operations and achieve their sustainability goals.
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