Program
Where Ideas Meet Expertise and Student Innovation
Design Climate brings together students, faculty, and industry partners to turn climate-tech ideas into marketable solutions. We create hands-on learning experiences, support commercialization efforts, and connect innovators across Duke and beyond. By combining student creativity, faculty research, investor insight, and industry engagement, we help develop market-ready technologies that reduce climate risk and strengthen communities.
Innovation Advisors
Connect with experienced advisors who provide strategic guidance on product development, market positioning, and scaling. Founders, startups, and community partners working with Design Climate can access this network to refine their strategy and accelerate progress.
Team Formation through Courses
In Design Climate Courses, building the right team is central to startup success. Each course assembles a well-balanced group of 4–5 graduate or advanced undergraduate students whose complementary skills help them tackle challenges and adapt to market needs. These student teams are supported by a Design Climate Instructor, paired with mentors, and guided by at least one Duke faculty advisor—creating a structured, course-driven environment for developing strong climate-tech ventures.
Prototyping Support
Startups and founders collaborating with Design Climate can access Duke’s labs and makerspaces to quickly build and test prototypes. This support is ideal for innovators ready to turn a clear concept into a physical or digital product.
Startup Funding
Through the Design Climate program and our partner network (Duke I&E, The Earthshot Prize, and The New York Climate Exchange, etc.), founders and students can pursue funding opportunities and competitions. Innovators with validated ideas and clear development plans can apply for pitch events or funding rounds to support their next steps.
Climate-Tech Team Building Mixers
Join networking events to meet students, faculty, and other innovators interested in climate-tech. These mixers are open to anyone looking to join a team, build a team, or connect with others in the climate innovation community.
