Coming soon: Our 2025 list of Climate Tech Companies to Watch
Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
- MIT Technology Review’s “2025 Climate Tech Companies to Watch” list will be published on October 6.
- The list identifies leading innovators developing crucial technologies to reduce emissions and adapt to climate change.
- This year, the list features 10 companies, a reduction from previous years, reflecting a challenging policy and funding landscape.
- Innovations span diverse industries, including energy, agriculture, transportation, and critical minerals.
- Readers are encouraged to engage by staying informed, making sustainable choices, and exploring career opportunities in the climate tech sector.
- Coming soon: Our 2025 list of Climate Tech Companies to Watch
- Key Takeaways
- The Urgent Imperative: Why Climate Tech Matters More Than Ever
- Navigating a Shifting Landscape: Fewer Firms, Greater Focus
- Empowering Action: How You Can Engage with Climate Tech
- A Glimmer of Hope in Challenging Times
- Frequently Asked Questions
The global dialogue surrounding climate change has escalated dramatically, shifting from a long-term forecast to an immediate, pervasive challenge affecting communities and economies worldwide. As scientific data unequivocally points to a rapidly warming planet, the demand for inventive, scalable solutions has never been more pressing. It is against this backdrop of urgency and necessity that we eagerly await the unveiling of our annual “Climate Tech Companies to Watch” list—a meticulously curated selection designed to highlight the pioneers shaping our sustainable future.
Each year, our team at MIT Technology Review embarks on an extensive search, delving into the dynamic world of climate innovation. Our goal is to identify the trailblazing firms that are not merely conceptualizing a greener tomorrow, but are actively constructing it through groundbreaking technologies and forward-thinking strategies. These companies embody human ingenuity, transforming complex environmental hurdles into opportunities for meaningful progress. From revolutionary energy capture systems to advanced agricultural techniques, the breadth of climate technology is vast, mirroring the multifaceted nature of the ecological shifts we confront.
This forthcoming list is far more than a mere directory; it represents a beacon of hope and a practical guide to enterprises making tangible contributions. It stands as a testament to the relentless dedication of scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and investors who refuse to accept environmental degradation as an inevitable reality. Prepare to explore a handpicked selection of organizations poised to deliver significant impacts in 2025 and beyond.
The Urgent Imperative: Why Climate Tech Matters More Than Ever
The stakes involved in addressing climate change have never been higher. We are observing environmental transformations occurring at an unprecedented pace, demanding equally swift and effective responses from all sectors of society. The scientific consensus is robust, and the real-world implications, from extreme weather events to resource scarcity, are becoming painfully clear to populations globally. This year, the profound reality of our warming world is particularly pronounced.
“The need to cut emissions and adapt to our warming world is growing more urgent. This year, we’ve seen temperatures reach record highs, as they have nearly every year for the last decade. Climate-fueled natural disasters are affecting communities around the world, costing billions of dollars. That’s why, for the past two years, MIT Technology Review has curated a list of companies with the potential to make a meaningful difference in addressing climate change (you can revisit the 2024 list here). We’re excited to share that we’ll publish our third edition of Climate Tech Companies to Watch on October 6.
MIT Technology Review’s steadfast commitment to highlighting these critical innovators underscores the pivotal role technology plays in our collective response. These are not merely incremental improvements; they often represent paradigm-shifting breakthroughs that hold the key to building a more resilient and sustainable planet. Our rigorous selection process aims to identify firms with robust technical foundations, coupled with realistic and scalable plans for market entry and sustained positive impact. We prioritize showcasing solutions that are not only scientifically sound but also economically viable and ethically responsible.
The sheer diversity of innovation showcased on this list is truly inspiring. The companies we’re highlighting are tackling the climate crisis from various angles, demonstrating the integrated approach required to resolve such a complex global issue.
“The list features businesses from around the world that are building technologies to reduce emissions or address the impacts of climate change. They represent advances across a wide range of industries, from agriculture and transportation to energy and critical minerals.”
From revolutionizing how we generate and consume energy, to transforming our transportation systems and reshaping the agricultural practices that sustain us, these companies stand at the vanguard of change. They are fundamentally redesigning aspects of our global infrastructure and daily routines, proving that sustainable alternatives are not only achievable but increasingly practical and profitable. This year’s selection reflects the accelerating pace of innovation across these crucial sectors, offering a diverse portfolio of solutions tailored to meet the distinct challenges faced by different regions and industries.
Navigating a Shifting Landscape: Fewer Firms, Greater Focus
The journey towards a sustainable future is rarely without its complexities. The climate tech sector, like any rapidly evolving domain, consistently encounters a unique blend of dynamic challenges and emerging opportunities. This year’s selection process has been particularly influenced by significant geopolitical and economic shifts impacting global climate action. The landscape has undeniably transformed, leading us to refine our approach to the list itself.
“One notable difference about this year’s list is that we’ve focused on fewer firms—we’ll highlight 10 instead of the 15 we’ve recognized in previous years. This change reflects the times: Climate science and technology are in a dramatically different place from where they were just one year ago. The US, the world’s largest economy and historically its biggest polluter, has made a U-turn on climate policy as the Trump administration cancels hundreds of billions of dollars in grants, tax credits, and loans designed to support the industry and climate research.”
This substantial shift in policy direction from a major global economic power undoubtedly casts a shadow over the immediate funding and support available for climate innovation. It necessitates an even sharper focus on companies that can demonstrate exceptional resilience, robust business models, and the agility to thrive even within a less supportive regulatory environment. Our decision to spotlight fewer firms this year is a direct response to this evolving reality, emphasizing quality, proven potential, and adaptability in what has become a more challenging operational climate for many.
Despite these considerable headwinds, the fundamental urgency of climate action remains undiminished. In fact, it has only intensified, underscoring the indispensable role of private sector innovation, sustained investment, and collaborative international efforts.
“And the stark truth is that time is of the essence. This year marks 10 years since the Paris Agreement, the UN treaty that aimed to limit global warming by setting a goal of cutting emissions so that temperatures would rise no more than 1.5 °C above preindustrial temperatures. Today, experts agree that we’ve virtually run out of time to reach that goal and will need to act fast to limit warming to less than 2 °C. The companies on this year’s list are inventing and scaling technologies that could help. There’s a wide array of firms represented, from early-stage startups to multibillion-dollar businesses. Their technologies run the gamut from electric vehicles to the materials that scaffold our world.”
This stark reality amplifies the critical importance of the companies featured on our list. They are not merely reacting to market demands; they are actively shaping the future, pushing the boundaries of what is possible to accelerate our transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient world. Their innovations, whether focused on direct emissions reduction, carbon sequestration, or building climate resilience, are crucial pieces of an intricate global puzzle. We are observing a spectrum of solutions, from novel methods of carbon capture and next-generation battery storage, to sustainable construction materials and advanced precision agriculture techniques.
Empowering Action: How You Can Engage with Climate Tech
While the sophisticated solutions pioneered by these innovative companies are paramount, meaningful change also necessitates collective action and informed engagement from individuals, communities, and organizations alike. Understanding the diverse landscape of climate technology empowers everyone to contribute, whether directly or indirectly.
3 Actionable Steps to Engage with Climate Innovation:
- Stay Informed and Advocate: Make it a priority to follow the upcoming “Climate Tech Companies to Watch” list closely when it publishes on October 6. Gaining an understanding of the cutting-edge technologies and the visionary companies behind them enables you to speak knowledgeably about viable solutions. Use this newfound knowledge to advocate for climate-friendly policies, support businesses unequivocally committed to sustainability, and engage in informed, constructive discussions with your local representatives and community leaders. Your informed voice is a powerful tool for change.
- Support Sustainable Choices: Where feasible, consciously direct your purchasing power and investment decisions towards companies and products that demonstrably align with ambitious climate goals. This can manifest in various ways: choosing renewable energy providers for your home or business, opting for electric or hybrid vehicles, actively supporting brands with transparent sustainability practices, or even investing in climate-focused funds and green bonds. Every conscious decision, from significant investments to everyday consumer choices, sends a clear and impactful signal to the market. For instance, consider the rapid rise of sustainable building materials such as low-carbon concrete or innovative recycled steel. Actively supporting companies that innovate in these vital areas, perhaps by specifying their products in construction projects or promoting their use within your professional networks, directly contributes to reducing the substantial embodied carbon footprint of our global infrastructure.
- Explore Career Opportunities in Climate Tech: The climate tech sector is experiencing exponential growth, creating a wealth of fulfilling career opportunities across an incredibly diverse range of fields. These include but are not limited to engineering, data science, public policy, marketing, finance, and supply chain management. If you are seeking a career with profound purpose and impact, proactively explore roles within companies and organizations dedicated to fostering environmental sustainability. Even if your current profession isn’t directly situated within climate tech, consider how your existing skills and expertise can be creatively applied to support environmentally conscious initiatives within your own industry, organization, or even through volunteer efforts. The need for diverse talent is immense.
A Glimmer of Hope in Challenging Times
It is entirely natural to feel overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the climate crisis and the political and economic headwinds that, at times, impede progress. Yet, the relentless spirit of innovation showcased by companies around the world offers a powerful, inspiring counter-narrative. It serves as a potent reminder that human ingenuity, when applied with dedication and purpose, holds immense potential to overcome even the most formidable global challenges. The upcoming list is therefore more than just an industry survey; it is a profound testament to the persistent and vital pursuit of actionable, impactful solutions.
“Of course, we can’t claim to be able to predict the future: Not all the businesses we’ve recognized will succeed. But we’ve done our best to choose companies with a solid technical footing, as well as feasible plans for bringing their solutions to the right market and scaling them effectively. We’re excited to share the list with you in just a few days. These companies are helping address one of the most crucial challenges of our time. Who knows—maybe you’ll even come away feeling a little more hopeful.”
This eloquent sentiment perfectly encapsulates our motivation and optimism. While not every venture will ultimately achieve its full potential, the collective effort and unwavering commitment of these dedicated innovators undeniably move us closer to a sustainable and resilient future. Their tireless work transforms abstract environmental concerns into tangible, deployable solutions that truly have the power to make a difference. As we count down the days to the list’s release, we warmly invite you to join us in celebrating these pioneering entities and drawing profound inspiration from their unwavering commitment to building a better world for all.
Don’t Miss Out!
Mark your calendars for October 6 and be among the very first to discover the game-changing companies shaping our climate future. Your insight into these innovations can make a difference!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the “Climate Tech Companies to Watch” list?
The “Climate Tech Companies to Watch” list is an annual compilation by MIT Technology Review, meticulously curated to highlight pioneering firms developing innovative and scalable technologies to combat climate change and its impacts.
Q2: When will the 2025 list be published?
The 2025 list of Climate Tech Companies to Watch is scheduled to be published on October 6.
Q3: Why is this year’s list shorter than previous years?
This year’s list features 10 companies, reduced from 15 in prior editions. This change reflects the current challenging geopolitical and economic landscape, including shifts in climate policy and funding, necessitating a sharper focus on companies demonstrating exceptional resilience and impactful innovation.
Q4: What types of companies are featured on the list?
The list showcases a diverse array of companies, from early-stage startups to multibillion-dollar businesses, whose technologies aim to reduce emissions or address climate impacts across various sectors. These include advancements in energy generation and storage, transportation, agriculture, critical minerals, and sustainable materials.
Q5: How can individuals support climate tech innovation?
Individuals can support climate tech by staying informed about new technologies and companies, advocating for climate-friendly policies, making conscious purchasing and investment decisions towards sustainable products and businesses, and exploring career opportunities within the growing climate tech sector.
