About the Project
INVESTING IN A BETTER WORLD is a project built on the vision of a private investor in early-stage climate tech startups – a genuine business angel who has been active over the last 5 years. The investor has partnered with 32 promising startups, many of which are innovative university spin-outs featuring technical innovations with the potential to limit global warming. Think improved batteries, breakthrough CO2 capture techniques, renewable energy solutions – all designed to make a positive environmental impact. With a background as an entrepreneur spanning 19 years and the co-founding of two successful companies, the project is fueled by practical experience, smart financial re-investments, and a passion for a cleaner, brighter future… all wrapped up in a dynamic, hands-on approach.
Main Benefit
- Over 32 climate tech startups backed in just 5 years
- 19 years of entrepreneurial experience with two co-founded companies still running successfully
- A technical background in physics, providing deep insight into complex innovations
- Ability to invest at a much earlier stage than most VC firms
- Complementary support with go-to-market strategy, investor pitch reviews, and team composition advice
Early-Stage Investment Opportunity
The project stands out by stepping in at the very early stage – way earlier than many typical venture capital investments. This early intervention allows for guidance before the high-stakes growth phase begins. With casual yet sharp insights, the approach brings a relaxed vibe to the intense world of startup funding. Investors are not merely financing ideas; they are nurturing potential breakthroughs that can disrupt conventional energy paradigms. The combination of passion and precision creates a unique opportunity for founders to develop innovative solutions with a helping hand available even when the hurdles seem insurmountable…
Technical Expertise in Climate Tech
A solid technical background in physics is more than just an academic pursuit here – it is the cornerstone of informed decision-making. This deep understanding of scientific innovation is critical when evaluating cutting-edge ideas like improved battery technologies, advanced CO2 capture systems, renewable energy mechanisms, and beyond. The investment approach translates complex technical jargon into clear strategies, building a bridge between the startup’s innovative vision and the practical steps needed for scaling up. It’s this scientific grounding that informs every supporting conversation and strategy review, ensuring that every funding decision is both logical and impactful.
Support Beyond Capital
Investments aren’t only about providing money. This project goes further by offering invaluable experience to startup founders. Whether it’s a detailed review of the go-to-market strategy, careful polishing of the investor pitch, or critical insights into the team’s composition, the support is holistic. The additional introductions to VC investors during the next funding round illustrate a commitment to long-term growth and sustainable success. Such in-depth involvement ensures that startups receive not only the capital they need but also the mentorship required to navigate the challenging early phases of building a business. Sometimes the right advice at the right time can be the tipping point for success…
Expanding the Clean Energy Ecosystem
The investment portfolio spans a broad spectrum of climate tech sectors. It embraces startups focused on innovative clean energy production – names like Oceans of Energy, Renaissance Fusion, and Yellow-SiC lead the charge in this area. In battery technologies, companies such as LeydenJar, Eexion, Powall, Inlyte Energy, Aqualith, and Alteva Technologies are backed by strategic insights and early-stage financing. The e-mobility segment is robust with investments in firms like Maeve, Tiler, and Urban Ray, while green chemicals find representation through H2Pro, AES, and Radical Dot. Ventures in precision fermentation (Brevel, Nutropy), CO2 capture and sequestration through biochar (with Bio-Logical), and industrial decarbonization (HyperHeat, Co-reactive) also form part of this diverse portfolio. Additionally, affiliations with the climate tech venture builder Marble Studio, the aquaculture investor Aqua-Spark, and select PV and biogas projects underline an overarching vision – one that is as diversified as it is focused on systematic change.
Project Impact
- Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- Sustainable Development Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action
Collaborative Growth in Clean Energy
In Den Haag, The Netherlands, the heartbeat of this project resonates with a clear message: investing in climate tech is investing in a better world. Pjotr van Schothorst, the driving force behind these initiatives, utilizes the profits of a long-established entrepreneurial career to light the way for new, disruptive technologies. The approach is refreshingly straightforward and steeped in real-world business acumen – something that sets this investor apart from many other players in the scene. Founders in the climate tech space are encouraged to reach out, whether it’s via a pitchdeck submission or a friendly connection on LinkedIn. This proactive outreach ensures that fresh ideas with the potential to limit global warming receive the early-stage support they need. The combination of deep technical expertise, a track record of successful investments, and a willingness to provide hands-on advice makes for a truly engaging and promising gateway into the exciting world of clean energy innovation…
