The Two Cohorts of Climate Scale-Up: Scale-Ups and Stewards of the Future

At the heart of Climate Scale-Up’s impact model are two distinct yet complementary cohorts: the Scale-Up Cohort and the Stewards of the Future. Each plays a vital role in accelerating climate innovation and shaping systemic solutions. Their shared journey culminates during a transformative week-long program in Davos, held in parallel with the World Economic Forum.

1. The Scale-Up Cohort

The Scale-Up Cohort comprises 10–15 of the world’s most promising growth-stage climate tech companies, selected through a global nomination and vetting process. These companies are typically at the Series A stage or beyond, with proven commercial traction, scalable business models, and measurable climate impact. Representing diverse sectors—from renewable energy and green hydrogen to carbon removal, sustainable materials, and climate fintech—these ventures are ready to transition from national pilots to global deployment.

Throughout the year, these founders engage in tailored programming focused on market expansion, project finance, corporate partnerships, and policy navigation. The Davos program serves as a catalyst: Scale-Ups are introduced to top-tier investors, large corporates seeking innovation partnerships, and public sector leaders—all within a trusted, high-conviction setting designed to accelerate strategic outcomes.

2. The Stewards of the Future Cohort

Running parallel to the Scale-Ups is the Stewards of the Future cohort: a hand-picked group of next-generation leaders from family offices, philanthropic institutions, corporates, academia, and international organizations. These individuals bring what we call polycapital—a combination of financial, social, and reputational capital—along with a deep commitment to long-term systems change. They are not passive observers; they are co-creators, mentors, and connectors.

Many are actively deploying capital or shaping strategies within their organizations and seek to engage more directly in the climate transition. Others are thought leaders and advisors driving the integration of sustainability across governance, finance, and global policy. During Davos, Stewards participate in private roundtables, co-design sessions, and shared immersive experiences with the Scale-Up founders—building trust, sharing insights, and forging lasting alliances.

The Davos Convergence

During the Climate Scale-Up week in Davos, these two cohorts come together in a powerful convergence of innovation and influence. Through curated events—such as Deal Day, climate finance salons, peer storytelling dinners, and multi-stakeholder workshops—they form a dynamic ecosystem grounded in shared purpose and complementary capabilities.

The result is more than a convening; it is a catalyst for strategic investment, cross-sector partnership, and long-term stewardship. The Scale-Ups bring the solutions. The Stewards bring the platforms. Together, they accelerate change—not just for one week in Davos, but for the decade ahead.