SF Climate Tech: April
Upcoming events & our guide to Climate Week
Hi friends,
Here are our picks for the week:
Today, head to Oakland for 🌿 April Climate Co-Work Day at Port Labs! or swing by 9Zero for the 🥗 Pre-Climate-Week Lunch. Wrap up the day with a 🔥 Climate Fireside Chat with Janelle Kellman
Thursday, talk energy at the 🍹 YPEx SF Clean Energy Gather Happy Hour at Asiento in SF or go to Berkeley for 🧬 Biotech X Sustainability Networking
Friday in Sausalito, talk 👩🔬 Women in Sustainability: Networking, Innovation, Leadership, Impact, Solutions
Next Tuesday talk transit at the 🚍 Transport & Mobility Sector Lunch at 9Zero and follow it up with 🏞️ Natural Capital Cocktails in San Francisco
Next Wednesday head to Stanford for the 🌎 GSB Summit: Climate, Business & Innovation and the 🥂 Harvard + MIT Climate Tech Happy Hour
Finally, get ready for the craziness of Climate Week next Thursday at the 🌿 Bay Area Climate Designers Pre-Climate Week Meetup and 🇨🇭 Swissnex Startup Pitch Night: Thu, Apr 17
Planning for Climate Week? We’re trying something new: check out our guide at PlanTheWeek—we’ve hand tagged events to be targeted and useful, written up an overall guide, calendar sharing, Gantt charts for planning, and more! It’s very much in Beta, so test it out and let us know your feedback!
As always, scroll down for more details on this week and the full list of upcoming events.
Cheers,
Alec, Sonam, and the Climate Tech Cities team
This Week’s Events
♻️ Recology San Francisco Public Tour: Wed, Apr 9
🧵 Future Threads: Spring Break Camp: Wed, Apr 9
🌿 April Climate Co-Work Day at Port Labs!: Wed, Apr 9
🥗 Pre-Climate-Week Lunch (9Zero Members): Wed, Apr 9
🌱 VentureFuel: Scaling climate tech solutions: Corporate & Startup Crossovers: Wed, Apr 9
🔥 Climate Fireside Chat with Janelle Kellman: Wed, Apr 9
⚡️ Open Austria Hydrogen Mixer: Wed, Apr 9
☕🌍 Coffee and Climate (and bagels!): Thu, Apr 10
🚧 Building & Infrastructure Member Lunch: Thu, Apr 10
🍹 YPEx SF Clean Energy Gather Happy Hour: Thu, Apr 10
🧬 Biotech X Sustainability Networking Event: Thu, Apr 10
👩🔬 Women in Sustainability: Networking, Innovation, Leadership, Impact, Solutions: Fri, Apr 11
♻️ Mission Bay Monthly Cleanup Day!: Sat, Apr 12
🌱 Mission Bay Cleanup: Sat, Apr 12
🚴♂️ Redwood City Bike Advocate Meetup: Sat, Apr 12
👟 Starry Sustainable Soles: Sat, Apr 12
🏖️ Adapting to an Eroding Coastline: South Ocean Beach Tour by Friends of Ocean Beach Park+Sierra Club: Sat, Apr 12
🌍 AI Salon: Mother Earth [SF]: Mon, Apr 14
🚍 Transport & Mobility Sector Lunch: Tue, Apr 15
🎬 Environmental Justice Film Festival @ Stanford University - Year 2: Tue, Apr 15
🏞️ Natural Capital Cocktails in San Francisco: Tue, Apr 15
Community Shoutouts
👩🔬 SOSV Biomanufacturing VC-Founder Matchup
As global demand accelerates for sustainable, high-performance, and planet-positive products, startups across health, food, energy, agriculture, beauty, and materials are answering the call—with biology as their engine. SOSV's VC-Founder biomanufacturing matchup event brings together the innovators and the investors driving that shift. Whether you’re refining enzyme pathways, developing novel bioreactors, reimagining cell therapies, or scaling biomanufacturing infrastructure—you’ll find aligned minds (and money) here. Free, virtual and open to all investors and founders in the space.
🌎 Climate Tech Cities and Streetlife Ventures Startup and Talent Platforms
Climate Tech Cities and Streetlife Ventures are launching new platforms to support climate founders, funders, and career transitioners! There is no shortage of great companies raising money for their groundbreaking ideas, great investors looking to support with capital, and great talent living the mantra that every job is a climate job. We can’t wait to hear from you!
Opportunities
🌳 Cleantech Open AcceleratorDue Apr. 13
Cleantech Open is the world’s largest cleantech accelerator, providing entrepreneurs and corporate innovators the resources they need to launch and grow successful cleantech businesses. Our one-of-a-kind innovation ecosystem built over the last 19 years of programming spans key cleantech innovation hubs in the U.S., linking labs and universities, service providers, investors, corporations, governments, and other cleantech incubators and accelerators.
🎨 Climate Studio InitiativeDue Apr. 15
Pratt Institute, in collaboration with Beam Center and Telos Learning, is proud to launch its new Climate Studio Initiative. Its mission: to expand climate literacy and promote climate justice through the creation of public art in the New York City area. We believe raising public awareness around climate issues will strengthen participation in the democratic process. In its inaugural year, the initiative will host the Climate Studio Residency 2025, bringing together artists, scientists, and educators with youth from New York City. With funds of $4,000 per resident, this call is open to all applicants with a demonstrated interest in climate literacy or climate justice who meet the application criteria.
🔋 Energy Storage Deployment Accelerator w/ The Clean FightDue Apr. 21
The Clean Fight is seeking high impact, battery and energy storage solutions that can help speed the clean energy transition in New York State. Program benefits include: up to $100k in grant funding per company, tailored business development with customer partners and developers, support from New York's leading energy storage experts NY-BEST, connections to scaling capital, and more. Applications close April 21, 2025. Get yours in early.
🦋 Ray of HopeDue Apr. 25
Calling all nature-inspired startups! Join a diverse cohort of high-impact visionary leaders. Receive personalized support, access to funding, attend a Nature Retreat and more. Apply today and be part of a community driving positive change!
🌇 Urban Future Prize CompetitionDue Apr. 28
For the ninth consecutive year, the Urban Future Lab is proud to present the Urban Future Prize Competition, which identifies and supports top climatetech startups. Thanks to the generous support of MUFG Bank, Mitsubishi Corporation (Americas), and NYU Tandon School of Engineering, two winners will each receive a $50,000 cash prize and admission into the ACRE Incubator—New York’s longest-running and most successful climatetech program.
Upcoming Events
📈 A Climate Crossroads: Charting the Next Decade of Climate Action: Wed, Apr 16
🌎 GSB Summit: Climate, Business & Innovation: Wed, Apr 16
🥂 Harvard + MIT Climate Tech Happy Hour: Wed, Apr 16
🥗 Pre-Climate-Week Lunch (9Zero Members): Thu, Apr 17
🔥 EARTH DAY SYMPOSIUM -- CALIFORNIA BURNING: Should I Stay or Go?: Thu, Apr 17
🌿 Bay Area Climate Designers Pre-Climate Week Meetup: Thu, Apr 17
🇨🇭 Swissnex Startup Pitch Night: Thu, Apr 17
🌾 Half-Day Retreat: Exploring Regenerative Food & Fiber Systems: Fri, Apr 18
✊ Climate Action Youth Summit 2025: Fri, Apr 18
📚 Climate Education at Scale: Innovations, Challenges, and Next Steps: Fri, Apr 18
💡 Climate x AI Hackathon (AI for Good in Climate Tech): Fri, Apr 18
This Week in Depth
♻️ Recology San Francisco Public Tour
When: Wed, Apr. 9 from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM (PDT)
Where: 401 Tunnel Avenue, San Francisco
The Recology San Francisco Public Tour offers an in-depth look at the city's waste management and recycling processes. Attendees will learn about the three-bin sorting system, the importance of recycling and composting, and view the initial processing of curbside materials. This educational program underscores the significance of individual actions in conserving natural resources and promoting environmental health.
🧵 Future Threads: Spring Break Camp
When: Wed, Apr. 9 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM (PDT)
Where: 302 12th Street, Oakland
Future Threads: Spring Break Camp is a hands-on week-long program focused on sustainability in fashion for students aged 10-17, held at SoleSpace Lab in Oakland. Participants will explore bio-materials, upcycling, natural dyeing, and fashion technology, fostering creativity while promoting eco-friendly practices. With limited class sizes of 10 for personalized attention, the camp provides an engaging introduction to climate-focused fashion innovation.
🌿 April Climate Co-Work Day at Port Labs!
When: Wed, Apr. 9 from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM (PDT)
Where: Port Labs, Oakland
April Climate Co-Work Day at Port Labs is a collaborative event designed to connect climate professionals and enthusiasts in Oakland, California. This free event features networking opportunities, expert sessions, and informal group discussions, catering to all experience levels in the climate tech sector. Attendees can engage in work, share skills, and explore supportive resources for innovation within the local ecosystem.
🥗 Pre-Climate-Week Lunch (9Zero Members)
When: Wed, Apr. 9 from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM (PDT)
Where: 9Zero Climate Innovation Hub, San Francisco
The Pre-Climate-Week Lunch at the 9Zero Climate Innovation Hub in San Francisco invites members of the 9Zero community to engage in meaningful discussions about climate solutions. Participants will have the opportunity to network with entrepreneurs, scientists, policymakers, and investors, focusing on innovative approaches to areas like carbon removal, regenerative agriculture, and clean energy. This relaxed gathering encourages the exchange of ideas and collaboration among those dedicated to advancing sustainability efforts.
🌱 VentureFuel: Scaling climate tech solutions: Corporate & Startup Crossovers
When: Wed, Apr. 9 from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM (PDT)
Where: Durand Building, Stanford
Join the Stanford Energy Club and Stanford Founders for a fireside chat featuring Wade Bitaraf, the founder of the Energy & Sustainability practice at Plug and Play, the world's largest corporate innovation center. Bitaraf will discuss strategies for building effective partnerships between startups and corporates, scaling climate tech solutions from pilot phases to deployment, and insights on climate tech trends and investment priorities. This event promises valuable insights for founders, investors, and climate enthusiasts looking to make an impact in the energy sector.
🔥 Climate Fireside Chat with Janelle Kellman
When: Wed, Apr. 9 from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM (PDT)
Where: 9Zero Climate Innovation Hub, San Francisco
This fireside chat features Janelle Kellman, a candidate for California Lieutenant Governor, discussing her vision for climate resilience in California at the 9Zero Climate Innovation Hub in San Francisco. With a background as an environmental lawyer and mayor, Kellman will address the synergy between government policy, climate innovation, and public-private partnerships. Attendees will gain insights into California's climate economy and explore actionable initiatives for meaningful climate action.
⚡️ Open Austria Hydrogen Mixer
When: Wed, Apr. 9 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM (PDT)
Where: 135 Main St, San Francisco
The Open Austria Hydrogen Mixer in San Francisco is an innovative networking event featuring over 15 Austrian hydrogen companies. Attendees will engage in insightful discussions and collaborative opportunities focused on advancements in hydrogen technologies. This free event promises to connect industry leaders and professionals with a shared interest in a sustainable hydrogen future.
☕ Coffee and Climate (and bagels!)
When: Thu, Apr. 10 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM (PDT)
Where: 9Zero Climate Innovation Hub, San Francisco
Coffee and Climate, hosted by the 9Zero Climate Innovation Hub in San Francisco, is a free event welcoming everyone interested in climate action. Participants can engage in stimulating conversations while enjoying coffee and bagels in a community-focused atmosphere. The event fosters collaboration among founders, investors, and innovators in the climate tech space.
🚧 Building & Infrastructure Member Lunch
When: Thu, Apr. 10 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM (PDT)
Where: 9Zero Climate Innovation Hub, San Francisco
The Building & Infrastructure Member Lunch at 9Zero Climate Innovation Hub offers a collaborative space for architects, engineers, developers, and sustainability leaders to discuss advancements in low-carbon buildings and resilient infrastructure. Attendees will have the opportunity to exchange insights on topics such as net-zero construction and sustainable materials while networking with potential partners in shaping a more sustainable built environment. This event is free and encourages participants to bring their own lunch for a relaxed atmosphere.
🍹 YPEx SF Clean Energy Gather Happy Hour
When: Thu, Apr. 10 from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM (PDT)
Where: Asiento, San Francisco
The YPEx SF Clean Energy Gather Happy Hour is a networking event designed for clean energy and climate professionals in the San Francisco Bay Area. Happening on April 10th from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Asiento, this gathering offers attendees the chance to connect over drinks and light bites, fostering conversations about climate tech initiatives. Sponsored by McGuireWoods, the event aims to create a welcoming atmosphere for sharing ideas and building relationships within the local clean energy community.
🧬 Biotech X Sustainability Networking Event
When: Thu, Apr. 10 from 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM (PDT)
Where: Mudd Hall, Berkeley
The Biotech X Sustainability Networking Event, hosted at Mudd Hall in Berkeley on April 11, 2025, offers a unique opportunity for professionals and engineering students to connect in the burgeoning fields of biotech and climate technology. Attendees will include industry leaders from organizations like Bakar Climate Labs and Ginkgo Bioworks, facilitating valuable networking and potential job opportunities. With free entry and food provided, this informal gathering is designed to foster collaborations and discussions within the San Francisco Bay Area's climate tech community.
👩🔬 Women in Sustainability: Networking, Innovation, Leadership, Impact, Solutions
When: Fri, Apr. 11 from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM (PDT)
Where: 22 Kappas Marina West Pier, Sausalito
The Women in Sustainability Breakfast, hosted by Mariane Bekker, brings together sustainability professionals, entrepreneurs, and advocates to foster connections and inspire innovative solutions for a sustainable future. Attendees will engage in panel discussions, network with like-minded individuals, and share insights on sustainable practices and leadership strategies, all while enjoying a locally sourced breakfast. This unique event emphasizes collaboration and empowerment in the climate tech space, making it a crucial platform for discussions that impact the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond.
🌱 Mission Bay Cleanup
When: Sat, Apr. 12 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM (PDT)
Where: 601 Mission Bay Boulevard North, San Francisco
The Mission Bay Cleanup is an environmental event taking place at Spark Social SF in San Francisco on April 12, 2025. Participants will gather to receive supplies and then team up to clean the surrounding neighborhood, emphasizing community involvement in maintaining local ecological health. This initiative aligns with climate sustainability efforts but is primarily focused on localized cleanup activities rather than climate tech innovation.
🚴♂️ Redwood City Bike Advocate Meetup
When: Sat, Apr. 12 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM (PDT)
Where: The Yard Coffee, Redwood City
The Redwood City Bike Advocate Meetup invites local cycling enthusiasts to collaborate on making Redwood City more bike-friendly. Organized by Karvin Dassanayake and held at The Yard Coffee, the meetup will focus on various initiatives such as advocating for safe routes to schools and promoting community rides. Participants can contribute ideas and efforts to improve bicycle infrastructure in the area.
👟 Starry Sustainable Soles
When: Sat, Apr. 12 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM (PDT)
Where: 1 Warriors Way, San Francisco
Starry Sustainable Soles is a shoe donation and recycling event hosted by the Golden State Warriors and Thrive City, aimed at promoting sustainability among sneaker enthusiasts in the San Francisco Bay Area. Attendees can donate unwanted sneakers, engage in a VIP shopping experience, and learn about recycling and upcycling through various nonprofits. This event highlights local sustainability efforts and offers the community a hands-on opportunity to divert waste from landfills while enjoying interactive activities.
🏖️ Adapting to an Eroding Coastline: South Ocean Beach Tour by Friends of Ocean Beach Park+Sierra Club
When: Sat, Apr. 12 from 11:15 AM to 1:00 PM (PDT)
Where: Great Highway & Noriega Street, San Francisco
The 'Adapting to an Eroding Coastline' tour offers participants insight into the challenges of coastal erosion and climate adaptation at South Ocean Beach in San Francisco. Led by coastal erosion expert Chase Davenport from Friends of Ocean Beach Park, attendees will explore the past, present, and future of this vital coastal area. This event is part of the Opening Day Celebration, which features various activities and additional tours focused on nature and habitat conservation.
♻️ Mission Bay Monthly Cleanup Day!
When: Sat, Apr. 12 from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM (PDT)
Where: San Francisco Public Library: Mission Bay, San Francisco
The Mission Bay Monthly Cleanup Day is a community-driven event dedicated to promoting environmental responsibility and cleanliness in the Mission Bay area of San Francisco. Scheduled for April 12, 2025, this free event encourages local residents to participate in a coordinated cleanup, aiming to surpass previous records of trash collected. Participants will also enjoy complimentary lunch at SparkSocial after the cleanup, facilitating community engagement and providing all necessary supplies for a successful event.
🌍 AI Salon: Mother Earth [SF]
When: Mon, Apr. 14 from 8:00 PM to 10:30 PM (PDT)
Where: , San Francisco
The Ai Salon: Mother Earth in San Francisco addresses the intricate relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) and planetary health as part of SF Climate Week. This free, in-person event will facilitate discussions on the ecological impact of AI, the role of indigenous knowledge, and the duality of AI as both a climate tool and a threat. Attendees will engage in deep conversations about how to balance technological advancement with environmental stewardship, embracing the need for care and reciprocity with the Earth.
🚍 Transport & Mobility Sector Lunch
When: Tue, Apr. 15 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM (PDT)
Where: 9Zero Climate Innovation Hub, San Francisco
The Transport & Mobility Sector Lunch at the 9Zero Climate Innovation Hub in San Francisco invites professionals in transportation, electrification, urban planning, and mobility to discuss sustainable transport innovations. Participants will have the opportunity to share insights on topics like public transit, micromobility, and supply chain decarbonization while networking with others in the field. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lunch and engage in meaningful discussions aimed at transforming climate ambitions into practical solutions.
🎬 Environmental Justice Film Festival @ Stanford University - Year 2
When: Tue, Apr. 15 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM (PDT)
Where: Stanford d.school, Stanford
The Environmental Justice Film Festival at Stanford University features four interactive film screenings focused on climate change and environmental equity, designed to engage the community and educate attendees about the experiences of marginalized societies facing climate challenges. With films highlighting Indigenous land management practices, the cobalt mining crisis in the DRC, the impact of economic policies in Jamaica, and the resistance against the Thirty Meter Telescope in Hawai'i, this festival aims to inspire action through storytelling and dialogue within the Stanford community. The event is free and part of a broader effort to promote climate awareness in the San Francisco Bay Area.
🏞️ Natural Capital Cocktails in San Francisco
When: Tue, Apr. 15 from 8:15 PM to 10:30 PM (PDT)
Where: 1965 Al Scoma Way, San Francisco
Natural Capital Cocktails invites professionals to Scoma's Restaurant in San Francisco for a networking evening focused on regenerative agriculture, forestry, and nature-based investing. Hosted by prominent firms including Mad Capital and Alder Point Capital, the event offers attendees a chance to engage in meaningful discussions about natural capital while enjoying food and drinks. This gathering is particularly tailored for those interested in the intersection of finance and climate initiatives in the Bay Area.