Absolutely not. While we have industry pioneers and change-makers in the room, the goal is knowledge sharing and collaboration, not a hard sell. Most conversations start with a simple "What are you working on?" or "What brought you here tonight?"
Thu 2 Apr 2026
Green Innovation Ecosystem Catalyst
Nexus - University of Leeds, Discovery Way, Woodhouse, Leeds LS2 3AA
09:00-17:00
Conference
What to expect
This isn't just another networking event. It is a high-level, strategic catalyst designed to bridge the gap between groundbreaking climate tech and the capital required to scale it.
01
Connect
Connect with founders, investors, businesses and public sector leaders across the Northern clean tech ecosystem.
02
Share
Share and discover practical insights on scaling technology, securing investment and navigating policy and funding.
03
Collaborate
Turn conversations into partnerships and projects that unlock funding, influence policy and move climate solutions forward.
Speakers
Speakers to be confirmed
Agenda Agenda Agenda Agenda
Agenda Agenda Agenda Agenda
Agenda Agenda Agenda Agenda
Agenda Agenda Agenda Agenda
09:00
10:00
Networking
Registration, Networking & Innovator Showcase
Start your morning with registration, refreshments, and informal networking to set the stage for a day of collaboration. Be sure to visit the Innovator Showcase, where 5–10 local GreenTech and ClimateTech startups will be available all day for demos and conversation.
10:00
10:10
Opening
Welcome & Opening Remarks
A formal introduction to the day’s agenda and the GreenTech Gathering mission. We’ll kick things off with a warm welcome from our hosts and key insights from our venue and strategic partners.
10:10
10:20
Opening
Introduction from NEXUS
Join Dennis Dokter for an introduction to Nexus Leeds, where he will outline the hub’s pivotal role in driving regional innovation. Discover how Nexus connects high-growth businesses with academic expertise and strategic resources to accelerate transformative ideas.
10:20
10:30
Opening
Opening Perspective
Clare Townley sets the tone with a thought-provoking poem exploring the intersection of climate, systems, and lived experience. This brief, reflective moment offers a pause for perspective before the agenda shifts toward the complexities of capital, scale, and strategy.
10:30
11:15
Keynote
Keynote: The impact of Technology & Circularity
The keynote the stage by addressing our urgent climate impact and the necessity of shifting our mindset toward innovative solutions. It serves as a call to action, framing the day’s dialogue around the creative strategies required to meet today’s environmental challenges.
11:15
11:45
Break
Networking & Comfort break
11:45
12:30
Panel
Panel Session 1: Pre-Seed & Seed for ClimateTech
This session explores the optimal funding mix of grants, angel investment, and early equity required to scale deep tech and hardware from the ground up. Learn how to leverage public funding strategically to build a robust capital roadmap that avoids grant dependency and strengthens your position for future raises.
12:30
13:15
Panel
Panel Session 2: Inside the Investor Mindset
This session offers a candid look at what actually secures funding in the climate tech space, featuring insights from investors on how they assess risk, scalability, and unit economics. Discover why impact alone is never enough and learn the red flags to avoid during due diligence to make your business truly investable.
13:15
14:00
Break
Networking Lunch
Enjoy a light lunch and refreshments in the NEXUS atrium while connecting with fellow attendees. Take this time to explore the Innovator Showcase, where 5–10 local GreenTech and ClimateTech startups remain on hand to demonstrate their technology and discuss their sustainable solutions.
14:15
15:00
Pane
Panel Session 3: Financing the Transition
This panel examines how corporations, local authorities, and major investors unlock large-scale capital for climate initiatives. From translating national policy like the Warm Homes Plan into local projects to aligning startups with corporate priorities, we will explore the financial levers, consumer incentives, and funding models that transform high-level strategy into scalable delivery.
15:00
16:00
Workshop
Pitch Deck Surgery
Instead of a high-pressure style pitch competition, this is a constructive working session. Pre-selected founders present their deck to a roundtable of investors. The investors then provide real-time, markup-style feedback on the screen.
16:00
17:00
Closing
Closing Remarks & Drinks Reception
Wrap up the day with closing remarks and a final thank you to our venue and partners for making this event possible. Afterward, join us for a drinks reception to continue the conversation, celebrate the day’s insights, and solidify new connections made throughout the showcase.
Previous Attendees
You’ll be in good company
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to have a climate-tech idea to join?
How structured are the events?
We find that the best connections happen when there’s room to breathe. Our events are a blend of open networking, speaker and panel slots. We make sure to allow you plenty of time to listen and learn, and even more time to follow up with people afterward over a drink.
I’m coming alone and don’t know anyone. Will it be awkward?
Honestly? Most people feel this way. But the GreenTech community is famously open. We purposely keep the environment quite relaxed so you can join conversations naturally. If you’re feeling stuck, find one of our hosts. We love playing as they're always open to chat throughout the event.
Is it okay to just listen?
Yes. You don't have to be a social butterfly. If you want to come, grab a drink and just listen to the speakers without talking to twenty different people, that is 100% allowed. You engage on your own terms.
Is there a dress code for the events?
Not at all. We describe the gathering as "relaxed and informal" for a reason. You’ll see a mix of everything from hoodies and trainers to business casual. Wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable and ready to chat. People will be more interested in your ideas than your outfit.
What happens when I first walk in?
You’ll be greeted by one of our team who will make you feel at ease. There's no pressure to go and dive straight into a group of people. Grab a drink and some nibbles, take a breath and ease into the room. We aim to make the first five minutes the easiest part of your night.
What if I’m new to GreenTech or just curious?
You are exactly who should be here. Our community thrives on fresh insights and vibrant perspectives. Whether you’re an expert or just starting your sustainability journey, your voice is welcome. We’re all here to learn from each other.
What if I’m not a tech person?
Don't let the name "GreenTech" intimidate you. We aren't just a room of developers and engineers. We need academics, creatives, marketers, and local business owners to make this work. If you care about the planet and your community, you speak the language.
What’s the food situation?
We provide free drinks and nibbles to keep everyone fuelled. It’s usually light bites, enough to keep you going, but not a full sit-down meal. If you have specific dietary requirements, feel free to let us know ahead of time.
