About the Program
UC Berkeley is widely recognized for its leadership in environmental sustainability and academic excellence, fostering an environment where cutting-edge research and entrepreneurial innovation come together to address global challenges. In this spirit, the Berkeley Innovation and Entrepreneurship Office and Bakar Climate Labs are proud to introduce the Berkeley Climate Action Proof-of-Concept Program (BCAPP). Launched by the University of California Office of the President through the President’s Entrepreneurship Network Council, this initiative offers UC Berkeley faculty the opportunity to fast-track climate-focused technologies, turning their research into commercially viable solutions that have the potential to create lasting environmental change.
Eligibility
Applicants must have principal investigator status at UC Berkeley.
The award must be used to translate relevant academic research applications into a product, platform or service that can be adopted in the marketplace. Funding postdoctoral or student support for this purpose is allowed, as are activities such as scientific research, market and/or IP analysis, or other steps necessary to bring the technology to commercialization. No matching funds are required and funding can be used to supplement current lab funding.
Benefits
The program will support four to six awards per year. Award amounts are expected to be up to $100,000 for 10 - 18 months based on the proposal’s needs and proposed timeline. Applicants should seek the level of support commensurate with the actual work needed to bring the project to commercialization.
Through existing programming provided by QB3, Bakar Climate Labs and other campus partners, awardees will have the opportunity to access mentorship and coaching, business plan and pitch development, market research, financial and legal advice, and matchmaking with leading industry partners. Awardees will be expected to actively participate in workshops, training and other sessions that are designed to assist them with bringing their research and products to market.
Areas of Innovation
All areas of relevance to climate change, which could include projects aimed at new materials and processes, business models, policy and more, will be considered.
Evaluation Criteria
This award is designed to bring to market innovative solutions with high potential for societal impact. A required outcome of the project is to identify risks and barriers to commercialization, product market fit, customer discovery, and viability for venture capital or other investment. A demonstrated path to commercialization within 10 to 18 months is desirable. Before applying, applicants should assess their project against a standard Technology Readiness Level scale. Proposed projects should be at a level 5 or higher.
Process
Selection will take place in two phases. Brief (~3 pages max) preproposals will be reviewed for alignment with BCAPP goals, area of focus, stage of project, etc. Guidance on content to cover can be found on the application site. Selected finalists will be invited to present their projects to the selection committee in short (10 to 15-minute) Zoom meetings. A slide template will be provided to ensure appropriate content coverage. Successful BCAPP awardees will be selected based on the finalist presentations.
We're here to answer your questions! Please email us at BCAAP@berkeley.edu.
