Applications Opening Soon
Applications for our 2027 cohort are opening soon.
Stay up to date on our TechX Accelerator, including upcoming application windows and exclusive insights from our team and alumni.
How to apply to TechX
Applications to our 2027 TechX Energy Transition Accelerator will run from 22 July – 21 September 2026.
Our application process is designed to be clear, transparent and supportive – ensuring every applicant has the tools to put their best foot forward. Startups can apply online through the TechX application platform. You’ll be asked to provide key information about your business, founders and the technology you’re developing.
The initial stage of assessment is driven by your video submission and supporting slide deck, so it’s crucial these reflect the quality and potential of your startup.
Read the full guidance below or download the handbook.
Your application will be assessed based on four core criteria:
Technology innovation
Technology impact
Team strength
Fit with TechX
Video submission
Your five-minute video submission is where your application comes to life. It should clearly communicate your technology, your team and why TechX is right for you.
Producing your application video:
- Script: Use the four scoring criteria to shape your script. Write answers to each question, then refine until your story flows smoothly.
- Storyboard: Sketch out how your video will look. Decide where to insert visuals, who will speak and what you want to show.
- Film and edit: Keep it simple. Webcam or smartphone footage is fine, so long as the audio and video quality is clear (720p HD is recommended). You can utilise free editing tools like iMovie, Clipchamp or Shotcut to help with basic trimming and transitions.
- Sharing the video as part of your application: Upload your video as an unlisted YouTube, Vimeo or Dropbox link and add to your application. If password-protected, ensure the password is included in your application.
Video scoring weightings:
- Technology Innovation: 25% (Suggested: 1.5 mins)
- Technology Impact: 25% (Suggested: 1.5 mins)
- Team: 25% (Suggested: 1 min)
- Why TechX: 25% (Suggested: 1 min)
Video content breakdown:
- 1
Technology Innovation
Use visuals, sketches or animations to help us understand your tech – even basic drawings or lab footage can be powerful. Be sure to answer:
• TECH: What is the technology you are submitting to TechX and how does it work? How is the technology innovative? Please include a diagram or visuals which clearly explain how the technology works
• PROBLEM: What is the problem you have identified and will your technology solve it? Please quantify if possible
• PROGRESS: Describe your progress so far in developing the technology. At which Technology Readiness Level is it?
- 2
Technology Impact
• CUSTOMERS: Who will be your key customers? How will this technology benefit them? How will these benefits translate into measurable commercial value (e.g cost savings, efficiency gains, or revenue growth?) Please quantify if possible
• MARKET IMPACT: What benefits will your solution provide to these customers over existing solutions on the market? Please quantify if possible
• ENERGY TRANSITION: How will your tech either enable emissions reduction and efficiencies in traditional oil and gas industries, or accelerate the growth of new industries that the North East of Scotland can play a role in such as offshore wind, energy storage, alternative fuels, carbon capture and storage
- 3
Team
We invest in founders as much as we invest in tech. Let us see your passion and the people behind the idea.
• TEAM: Introduce your team members (names, job titles). What are the relevant skills and experiences your team has that will increase your start-up’s chance of commercial success?
• GAPS: What skills gaps have you identified in your team and how do you plan to remediate them?
• AMBITION: What is your ambition for the company over the next 10 years?
- 4
Why TechX?
Tell us why TechX is the right accelerator for your business and how you’ll create impact in Scotland, the UK and beyond. We want to know why you chose us – and how we can help power your next stage of growth.
• TECHX: How will participating in the TechX programme and receiving the TechX funding benefit your company?
• SCOTLAND/UK IMPACT: How do you expect your company to benefit Scotland and the wider UK in the future?
Supporting slide deck
Alongside your video, submit a concise deck that supports your application. Your deck helps assessors dig deeper into your technology and team. This should be a maximum of six slides. Your deck should add depth – break down how your technology works, show calculations or diagrams and ensure nothing is left to assumption.
Slide requirements:
- Slide 1: Cover slide (company name, logo, website)
- Slide 2: Visual explanation of how the technology works
- Slide 3: The problem your tech addresses
- Slide 4: Progress to date
- Slide 5: Organisational chart of your team
- Slide 6: Why TechX? Why should we pick you?
Next steps: How will my application be assessed?
You have until 21st September at 23:59 (BST) to submit your application. After this deadline, all applications will be reviewed as outlined below.
Stage 1:
NZTC assessments
28 September – 10 October 2026
Once applications close, they will be assessed by our NZTC technology experts. With over 200 applications expected, it’s essential that your submission is polished and follows all application criteria.
Note: Video submissions that exceed the time limit or fail to answer the required questions may be disqualified.
Stage 2:
Further information request
12 – 30 October 2026
If you successfully pass the NZTC assessment stage, you’ll be notified on 12 October. Between 12 – 30 October 2026, selected, startups will be asked to provide additional information to support our due diligence process.
Up to 20+ shortlisted startups will be required to submit these follow-up responses to remain in the selection process.
Stage 3:
Industry Review Process
2 – 6 November 2026
Shortlisted applications will be reviewed and scored by a panel of external assessors during our Industry Review Day. Detailed feedback will be captured and made available to applicants upon request.
From the 20+ reviewed startups, up to 14 finalists will be invited to the next stage — the Finalist Review Day.
Stage 4:
Finalist Review Day
Thursday 12 November 2026
Finalist startups will attend our finalists review day to discuss their technology and business. Full guidance and event details will be shared in advance.
Stage 5:
Startup notification
16 – 20 November 2026
All finalists will be notified of the outcome. Successful startups will then proceed to due diligence and onboarding.
Stage 6:
Pre-accelerator onboarding
16 November – 18 December
Startups will receive all necessary information and paperwork to complete ahead of starting the programme. Prior to the 2027 programme kick-off we will hold an in-person onboarding week 7 – 11 December.
Top tips for a standout application
Start early
Producing a great video and slide deck takes times. Don’t leave it to the last minute.
Be memorable
From filming at test sites to unique storytelling, creative videos can make a difference.
Tell your story
What inspired your idea? What sets you apart? Be authentic, provide context and build connection.
Reach out to us
We can help clarify criteria, provide early feedback and answer any questions you have.
Our team are here to help
Still have questions? Read through our FAQs or get in touch with one of our team who can support you directly.
Edward
Pollock
TechX Acceleration Manager
Edward Pollock
With a rich background in entrepreneurship, Edward manages the delivery of the Net Zero Technology Centre’s award-winning TechX Accelerator. Prior to this, he worked to create and deliver the first Startup Accelerator at Robert Gordon University, as well as leading on hosting enterprise events, training programmes and credit-bearing short courses. With a degree in Event Management, Edward is experienced in founding new events, starting small companies and charities. Edward recently completed courses in entrepreneurship at Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, achieving Fellowship of Enterprise Educators UK and the Higher Education Academy. In 2021, Edward was awarded Rising Star in Enterprise Education for the UK. Edward has also held roles as a lecturer, a member of the Board of Governors and as a university quality reviewer.
Mariah
Forbes
TechX Acceleration Lead
Mariah Forbes
Mariah Forbes has over five years of experience in start-up program creation, management, and facilitation, as well as stakeholder engagement across industry, investors, and mentors.
As TechX Accelerator Lead, Mariah oversees the delivery of the TechX Clean Energy Accelerator, including program and curriculum planning, applicant attraction, and start-up onboarding. She manages stakeholder relationships, coordinates milestone events such as TechX Roadshows and Demo Day, and supports start-ups through assessment and investor engagement processes.
