C3 Launches Net Zero Catalyst Programme 

C3 – Companies Creating Change is excited to announce the launch of the Net Zero Catalyst Programme, a new initiative designed to accelerate the growth of scaleups driving sustainability across the MENAT region. The programme aspires to facilitate meaningful progress towards a net-zero future by focusing on ventures with high potential in critical sectors.

The Climate Policy Initiative (CPI) estimates that the MENAT region faces a staggering $200 billion climate finance gap by 2030. This gap, a stark reflection of the region’s projected needs for climate adaptation and mitigation versus the current levels of climate-related investment, underscores the urgent need for targeted investments in late-stage climate solutions.

The C3 Net Zero Catalyst Programme, in partnership with HSBC, will provide participants with tailored growth support, access to influential industry networks, and mentorship to help them scale their businesses while advancing regional sustainability efforts. Through this initiative, C3 continues strengthening its commitment to fostering impactful entrepreneurship and supporting ventures that align with the global sustainability agenda.

This programme builds on C3’s long-standing efforts to empower impact-driven startups, leveraging its five-year collaboration with HSBC. The partnership has supported over 140 socially and environmentally driven regional ventures, including notable alumni such as Desert Control, Hydro Wind, and ONE MOTO.

Kevin Holliday, Managing Director of C3, said, "The Net Zero Catalyst Programme is designed to empower scaleups to advance their sustainability efforts. In collaboration with HSBC, our long-standing partner who shares our strategic vision, we are equipping innovators with the tools, expertise, and networks needed to scale their businesses and amplify their impact on sustainability within their industries. We also recognise the critical role of later-stage companies in driving the transition to a net-zero economy, as their contributions are essential to accelerating meaningful progress towards a sustainable future."

Sabrin Rahman, Managing Director - Head of Sustainability at HSBC Middle East and Türkiye, said, “Working with clients and stakeholders to help catalyse the new economy is one of the core areas that plays to our strengths as an organisation. We’re excited by the potential of this catalyst programme to bring attention to some compelling, scalable technology ideas and businesses.”

Applications for the C3 Net Zero Catalyst Programme are now open and will close on Sunday December 15.

The initiative aligns with C3’s mission to empower entrepreneurs with the potential to create measurable positive change. As startups in the MENAT region play a crucial role in addressing sustainability challenges, the Net Zero Catalyst Programme will provide the tools they need to scale their solutions and contribute to a greener future.