The BC Centre for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) is investing $2.46 million CAD in five women-led climate tech startups through its first Women in Climate Tech Call for Innovation.
The program is designed to advance climate solutions while addressing the gender gap in early-stage funding.
This funding round marks the first time CICE has specifically targeted women-led ventures, providing non-dilutive capital and additional support such as mentorship and up to 25% of project capital.
Meet the women-led ventures
The funded startups are pioneering technologies in carbon removal, hydrogen storage, and sustainable materials:
- Agora Energy Technologies: Converts captured CO₂ into clean hydrogen and high-energy chemicals used in batteries.
- EnviCore: Transforms industrial waste into low-carbon cement.
- Gaia Refinery: Targets low-cost carbon removal solutions for high-emissions sectors like pulp and paper.
- Seacork Studio: Makes carbon-negative acoustic panels from seaweed.
- Ayrton Energy: Develops hydrogen storage and transportation using existing gas infrastructure.
Individual funding ranges from $350,000 to $700,000 based on project scope and impact potential.
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Unlocking Canada’s full climate potential
CICE CEO Sarah Goodman emphasized that empowering women in climate innovation leads to stronger outcomes:
“When we bring more voices to the table, we unlock better ideas, build stronger businesses, and find smarter solutions. This is especially true in climate and energy, where the challenges we face are complex and deeply connected.”
CICE, launched in 2021 as a non-profit, has now invested nearly $40 million in 65 early-stage clean energy projects valued at over $260 million. Previous initiatives include $7.7 million directed at wildfire solutions in 2024.
Toward a more inclusive cleantech future
This latest round signals a broader push to elevate female leadership in climate innovation, where structural barriers and underinvestment persist. By focusing on both impact and inclusion, CICE aims to position Canada as a global leader in equitable climate tech development.
