Meet Marcus Du Pree Thomas, an Associate Member of IChemE and a Fellow of the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management, with more than 30 years of experience spanning engineering, environmental technology, innovation, and climate-focused commercialisation. Marcus has seen innovation from both sides of the table, managing multi-million-pound technology portfolios and leading successful Series A and later-stage fundraising for an agri-tech scale-up. He believes that tackling climate change demands fundamentally new thinking, and that entrepreneurs are uniquely positioned to challenge conventional approaches and develop solutions that often can’t emerge within more structured corporate environments. His combination of technical expertise, commercial experience, and practical understanding of scaling climate technologies makes him a valuable mentor for founders navigating the journey from idea to impact.
Would you briefly introduce yourself and highlight what kind of expertise and support the teams can expect from you?
My career has been defined by a commitment to advancing sustainable solutions and pioneering innovative technologies. My experience spans the waste management, water and wastewater, agriculture, chemicals, polymers, AI, sensors, robotics, power generation/storage and renewables sectors, where I have consistently delivered impactful carbon savings and supported the transition to a Circular Economy.
This broad cross-sector knowledge equips me with the insight to fairly and rigorously assess, monitor, track and develop innovative new technologies and ideas. Throughout my career, I have led major technology and innovation programmes, collaborating with funding bodies (UK, EU), regulators, academia, SMEs, and technology developers.
Previously I managed, advised and monitored an innovation portfolio, from laboratory research to commercial deployment, backed by multi-million-pound funding through combinations of grants, loans, angel investors and VC’s. Then in my last role I managed a scale-up, directing an organo-mineral fertiliser business from R&D focused to full industrial commercialisation, leading successful Series A, Interim, and Series B fundraises over a 5+ year period.
My strategic oversight ensures that I can evaluate not only the novelty of an innovation but also its practical viability and potential for real-world impact. My professional journey demonstrates an ability to identify, nurture, and commercialise groundbreaking ideas.
What is the difference when it comes to supporting and working with climate tech founders, compared to other founders?
Albert Einstein suggested that problems cannot be solved using the same patterns of thinking that caused them in the first place. Therefore, we need to nurture and support new thinking. Whilst in big organisations this can be seen as a risk, given the right environment, this is where the solutions to our current and future problems will be resolved. From my first introduction to Carbon13 this was the prize I could see…
Building a start-up is a rollercoaster ride with many ups and downs. What tips do you have for founders to cope with this?
The challenge that whilst taking small steps forward most of society outside of the climate tech are either ambivalent or think why is it not being done already? Therefore, founders often must have that extra bit of “grit and determination” to get their voice heard.
Carbon13 is about building sustainable startups and about building strong teams who can support each other throughout the challenging journey. Are there any examples of teams whose treatment of each other has impressed you and that others could learn from?
A team’s strength is built on honesty and freedom to speak without ridicule. The best teams I have worked with are built around a group with very different viewpoints, skills, background and personalities but all laser focused on the common goal. One of those occasions where Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion wins through.
Building a start-up is a rollercoaster ride with many ups and downs. What tips do you have for founders to cope with this?
Don’t over celebrate the ups and drag the autopsy over the downs, do your best to treat each equally: “Why did that go well / why did that not land” now both are learning opportunities – never forget the power of Why?
.Why do you think that Carbon13 is a good place to start a successful climate tech venture?
Carbon13 has an excellent team, with a great breath of understanding and experience. They are willing to share in an open environment while focusing on identifying how and if that idea you are mulling over can deliver a new solution and what the problems are it can solve.
What do you think participants need to bring to be successful?
People who are open-minded and enthusiastic, with a willingness to listen, learn, and grow. They should be prepared to step outside their comfort zone and committed to solving today’s challenges with fresh thinking, rather than relying on the same approaches that created them.
Who would you like to work with in the future?
Someone/entity delivering societal change.
Apply now to Cohort 11
The Carbon13 programme brings together a strong network of domain experts, including Marcus, who have years of experience in venture building and investing. Their expertise helps founders refine their ideas, validate their approach, and build high impact climate ventures with confidence.
Ready to build your venture with us and benefit from this level of support? Applications for our Cambridge cohort are now open. Click the button below to apply, and be sure to submit your application by 31 July.