HSBC, Third Derivative, and Founders Factory Launch Future Industries Partnership to Accelerate Decarbonization of Iron, Steel, Cement, and Chemical Sectors
SINGAPORE — In a bold move to decarbonize some of the world’s most emissions-intensive industries, a new philanthropic initiative has been launched to help climate tech startups overcome the steep barriers to investment and deployment.
The Future Industries Partnership, announced today in Singapore, unites the global expertise and networks of banking giant HSBC, climate accelerator Third Derivative (part of RMI), and innovation platform Founders Factory. The three-year philanthropic program is designed to fast-track the commercial adoption of breakthrough climate technologies in heavy industry sectors—including iron, steel, cement, and chemicals—across Asia and the Middle East.
RELEVANT SUSTAINABLE GOALS
Heavy Industry, Heavy Emissions
As Asia and the Middle East continue their rapid industrial and urban expansion, demand for carbon-intensive materials is growing sharply. Yet, less than 10% of venture capital funding and only 3% of total global investment currently flows into early-stage industrial climate tech—despite the sector being responsible for a significant share of global emissions.
The Partnership aims to change that by offering startups a rare combination of technical mentorship, commercial strategy support, and access to corporate and investor networks, all tailored to bridge the critical “valley of death” that keeps many promising solutions from scaling beyond the lab.
“Rapidly growing markets like Asia and the Middle East can lead on industrial decarbonization by choosing innovation and entrepreneurship,”
Startup Support With a Mission
Startups selected for the program will benefit from hands-on support in areas such as regulatory navigation, industrial integration, and pilot development—key hurdles that have historically delayed climate tech deployment in industrial sectors.
By helping startups de-risk their models and connect with potential customers and financiers, the initiative aims to create a clear pathway to commercialization.
"We’re helping future industrial leaders become bankable, scalable, and ready for deployment across Asia and the Middle East"
Singapore, the launch site of the program and home to more than 4,500 tech startups, was selected for its strategic advantages. With a strong focus on green economy development, access to global financial markets, and policy support for clean tech, the city-state provides an ideal environment for startups seeking regional expansion.
"By connecting startups, corporates, investors, and financial institutions, the Future Industries Partnership aims to use our global network to help take game-changing ideas and make them a reality"
Building the Bridge to Net Zero
The launch of the Future Industries Partnership marks a critical step toward industrial transformation in regions that are central to the global climate battle. As Asia and the Middle East drive economic growth, the question is no longer if they will adopt clean technology—but how quickly.
With catalytic support from the philanthropic and corporate sectors, the Partnership seeks to unlock this transition by making sure the world’s most promising climate innovations don’t remain stuck on the sidelines.
Startups interested in joining the program can learn more at Third Derivative’s website.
