Partner Profile: Zero Founders Network
The Oxford SDG Impact Lab partners with the Zero Founders Network (ZFN) to support the next generation of climate-tech entrepreneurs. Established within the ZERO Institute at the University of Oxford, ZFN is an entrepreneurial hub that connects founders, academics, students, and investors to accelerate the development and deployment of zero-carbon energy solutions.
Through the project "Mapping the Future of Climate-Tech Innovation," Fellows will contribute to three key areas:
- Mapping the Climate-Tech Ecosystem – Conducting research on the climate-tech landscape across Oxford, London, Cambridge, and Europe, identifying key stakeholders, industry trends, and best practices.
- Understanding Support Needs – Engaging with startup founders and industry leaders to assess the challenges and opportunities in the sector, contributing to a strategic growth plan.
- Exploring a Climate-Tech Fellowship – Investigating the feasibility of a structured entrepreneurship programme for early-stage climate-tech innovators.
This project supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – Advancing zero-carbon energy solutions.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Supporting innovation-driven entrepreneurship.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Driving solutions to reduce carbon emissions.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Strengthening collaboration in the climate-tech sector.
By fostering a thriving climate-tech ecosystem, this partnership will help scale innovation, attract talent, and position ZFN as a central player in the global energy transition.
