The Launchpad for the Next Generation of Green Businesses

Recognising that early-stage businesses often face barriers to exhibiting at big events, whether due to budget constraints, brand recognition, or access to the right networks, the Start-Up & Scale-Up Zone at ESS Expo aims to level the playing field.

This dedicated zone offers a low-cost, high-impact platform for emerging companies to stand shoulder to shoulder with some of the most established names in environmental services, and gain direct access to 16,000+ industry professionals from government representatives, financiers, investors, big brands, and corporate sustainability leaders — all actively seeking new solutions, partnerships, and investment opportunities.

Apply for a Start-Up Booth

 

 

Why get involved?

  • Access to Investors & Buyers
    Meet key stakeholders from across the environmental supply chain, including corporate procurement teams, public sector buyers, venture capitalists, and angel investors, all under one roof and actively looking for new products & services.

  • Inclusion in the ESS Innovation Trail
    All participating start-ups are featured in the show’s official Innovation Trail, a curated visitor route that shines a spotlight on emerging technologies and fresh thinking — drawing extra attention to your stand from press, delegates, and partners.

  • Participation in the Investors Workshop
    A unique programme where founders can hear directly from investors, fund managers, and M&A advisors about what they look for in green ventures. Featuring interactive panels, Q&A sessions, and case studies from both sides of the table, it’s a rare opportunity to gain investor insights.

  • Media & Marketing Exposure
    Gain visibility through dedicated social media features, pre-show exhibitor spotlights, and the potential to be included in ESS press coverage, giving your business PR firepower that extends well beyond the event.

  • Networking with Accelerators & Partners
    Connect with leading incubators, accelerators, and support organisations within the sustainability ecosystem who can offer funding advice, mentoring, and long-term partnership opportunities.

Who can exhibit?

Start-ups: Up to 3 years old, never exhibited at ESS Expo prior.

Scale-ups: 3–7 years old, expanding nationally or internationally, never exhibited at ESS Expo prior.

Whether you’re venture-backed or bootstrapped, product-ready or at prototype stage, if you have a bold idea and a clear environmental mission, this is where you’ll be seen!

The Start-Up & Scale-Up Zone is tailored for early-stage companies offering disruptive solutions to the environmental challenges of today and tomorrow. If you're working in any of the following sectors, then ESS Expo could be your launchpad:

  • Clean-tech & green energy
  • Circular economy & reuse/recycling systems
  • Waste reduction technologies
  • Water purification, conservation & smart systems
  • Emissions reduction & air quality monitoring
  • Nature-based solutions & green infrastructure
  • Data, AI, or software platforms enabling sustainability
  • Low-impact materials, packaging, or product design



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Exhibitor Success Stories

  • Success Story: Bartec Municipal Technologies
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    Closed a Record Number of Council Deals Following ESS 2024
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    No
  • Success Story: EGGER Timberpak
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    Generated 4x ROI on their investment at ESS
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    No
  • Success Story: AMP
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    Rebranding Done Right: AMP Makes Bold Statement at ESS
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    No
  • Success Story: Renault Trucks UK
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    Renault Trucks Drives Fleet Electrification at ESS 2024
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    No

 

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