The World’s Largest Climate Tech Accelerator on How We Innovate

The World Changing Podcast

We sat down with The Accelerator Guy! That's Ryan Kushner of course - co-founder of Third Derivative, the world's largest climate tech accelerator. For context, Third Derivative is a non-profit joint venture of RMI and New Energy Nexus and the world’s largest and most resourced climate technology accelerator. The global, 18-month accelerator program coordinates commercialization between corporate partners (Wells Fargo, Microsoft, AT&T, Berkshire Hathaway Energy), 15 venture capital partners, and their portfolio of 198 startups, who have raised over $1.5B.

We start by discussing Ryan's background and book, "Accelerate This: A Super Not Boring Guide to Startup Accelerators and Clean Energy Entrepreneurship," while exploring key themes in climate technology, startup innovation, and the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Heard of "start-up valley's of death?" Ryan knows them well. The conversation highlights the importance of refining startup pitches, the societal adoption of technologies, and the challenges of transitioning entire energy systems, including the role of nuclear energy and grid integration. Finally, we also get into our personal motivations stemming from childhood pollution experiences and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on air quality, fostering a sense of optimism about a future driven by clean energy and the necessity for justice in this transition.

Referenced in this conversation:
RMI Cleantech Revolution

Third Derivative Blog - The Power of 83

Connect with Ryan Kushner:
Ryan's Website and Full Bio

Linkedin