Labs4Minerals — Competition Launch Event
Critical minerals and rare earths are the backbone of the energy transition — and one of the biggest innovation opportunities of the decade.
Join NetZero Tech Ventures and our partners for the in-person launch of the Labs4Minerals Competition: a half-morning of industry insight, founder stories, and the funding landscape, with breakfast and networking alongside the ecosystem.
This is also the official opening of applications for the Labs4Minerals Competition — the best place to understand what we're looking for and how to get involved.
What you'll get:
An industry view of where innovation in critical minerals and rare earths is most needed
Real founder stories on building a venture from the lab
A clear picture of the public funding, grants and incentives available
Time and space to meet researchers, founders, investors and industry partners
Agenda:
9:30 — Breakfast & networking
10:15 — Opening & welcome
10:30 — Session 1 · The Industry Lens — what industry leaders are looking for
11:00 — Session 2 · Bridging the Gap — how researchers and early-stage startups can work with industry
11:30 — Session 3 · Building the Next Generation — launching a venture in critical minerals
12:00 — Session 4 · Funding the Transition — public funding, grants & incentives
12:30 — Closing remarks
12:45 — Wrap & networking
Who should attend: Academic researchers (PhDs, postdocs, PIs), early-stage founders, climate and deep-tech investors, industry partners, and anyone considering applying to Labs4Minerals 2026.
The Labs4Minerals Competition: Applications open July 13th and close in October. Learn more: www.net-zero.vc/labs4minerals
In collaboration with, Tenova Advanced Technologies, Evonik , Deloitte Catalyst, Israel Innovation Authority, Science Abroad, Tel Aviv Global.
Format: In-person. Breakfast provided. Seats are limited — register to reserve your place.