Applications
OPEN
Cyber Runway: NW Net Zero is a regional programme for startups in the North West of England working at the intersection of cyber innovation and net zero technologies.
Led by Plexal in partnership with Lancaster University, NW Net Zero aims to strengthen energy industry security and long-term resilience by supporting cyber startups through acceleration to foster collaboration with net zero stakeholders.
You’ll become part of an ambition to cultivate a thriving regional ecosystem that secures the UK’s emerging green economy.
NW Net Zero is for cyber startups that are:
NW Net Zero is for cyber startups that are:
- Based in the North West of England
- Pre-seed or seed stage with validated cyber solutions
- Focused on or adaptable to net zero-related sectors (such as clean energy, manufacturing, transport)
- Seeking traction, customer engagement and market access
- Open to collaboration and participation in in-person and virtual programme activities

Key dates
TUESDAY 30th September
Applications open
FRIDAY 17th october
Applications close
w/c MONDAY 3rd November
Programme onboarding
w/c MONDAY 27th october
Successful applicants notified
THURSDAY 13TH November
First in-person workshop

Why cyber startups should apply for NW Net Zero
Accelerated market traction: Support for transitioning from validation to customer engagement and product-market fit
End user connections: Direct access to net zero industry stakeholders across clean energy, aerospace, electrification, and green data centres
Investor introductions: Exposure to capital networks to support growth and scale
Peer learning and mentorship: Virtual huddles, WhatsApp cohort group and monthly 1:1 check-ins for ongoing support
Challenge-led innovation: Co-creation workshops with end users to refine solutions against real-world challenges

