Backyard Briefs: Climate Tech in the Real World
Backyard Briefs is a casual, outdoor gathering at Althea built around a simple idea: some of the most interesting climate tech companies right now aren’t theoretical — they’re already being built and deployed in the real world, including in our own backyard here in Boston.
The evening will feature brief, two‑minute spotlights from a small group of climate tech leaders sharing what they’re working on and where their technology is live. Intentionally informal, there are no slides or panels...just quick updates from builders in the the real world. The rest of the event is designed for relaxed conversation with founders, operators, and investors working within the climate tech ecosystem.
About your hosts
MassMutual Ventures (MMV) is a multistage venture capital firm based in Boston and investing globally. Our $150 million Climate Technology Fund invests in Series A and B software and hardware companies in North America developing solutions related to Climate Intelligence, Sustainable Cities, and Clean Power. Our sole limited partner is MassMutual, a Fortune 500 financial services firm with over $500 billion in assets under management and a commitment to transition to a net zero investment portfolio. Our connection to MassMutual gives MMV’s portfolio companies access to a unique set of assets and capabilities within the firm, including a large real estate portfolio, renewable energy assets, and an internal network of later-stage equity and debt funds.
Energize Capital is a leading investor in climate solutions. We seek to scale sustainable innovation through partnering with the builders and operators shaping our future. We invest in software and services that enable the transition to a digitized and decarbonized economy. We support companies at various stages of maturity, deploying capital through two distinct investment strategies: Ventures, our earlier-stage platform, and Endurance, our PE and growth buyout strategy.
Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), a division of First Citizens Bank, is the bank of some of the world’s most innovative companies and investors. SVB provides commercial and private banking to individuals and companies in the technology, life science and healthcare, private equity, venture capital, and premium wine industries. SVB’s parent company, First Citizens BancShares, Inc. is a top 20 U.S. financial institution with more than $200 billion in assets. As a premier financial partner, SVB supports innovators from pre-seed to IPO. We offer tailored banking solutions, venture debt, and access to a vast network of investors and founders, helping businesses turn bold ideas into impactful companies.