Jonathan Tudor (Clean Growth Fund): 10 Key Things You Must Know

Overview

Jonathan Tudor is a prominent investment partner at the Clean Growth Fund, a well-regarded early-stage venture capital fund that focuses on supporting UK companies dedicated to decarbonisation and clean technology. With a rich background that spans almost 25 years in technology investment across multiple geographies including the UK, US, Europe, and Israel, Tudor is a key figure in driving innovations that tackle climate change. His role is especially notable because of his extensive experience leading teams in corporate venture capital, combined with his scientific expertise as a chemist with a doctorate from Oxford. This article delves into ten intriguing aspects of Jonathan Tudor’s professional journey, his contributions to the Clean Growth Fund, and their impact on the climate tech landscape.

1. Background and Professional Expertise

Jonathan Tudor's career is rooted in deep technical training; he completed his PhD in Chemistry at the University of Oxford, which laid a strong foundation for his later work bridging science and investments. Before focusing exclusively on venture capital, he served in various executive roles involving technology strategy and investment at well-known companies like BP Ventures, QinetiQ, and Centrica. His scientific background combined with business acumen enables him to assess complex technological risks and opportunities effectively, aiding the Clean Growth Fund in making informed investments in climate-dedicated startups.

2. Role at the Clean Growth Fund

Since joining the Clean Growth Fund in September 2020, Tudor has been instrumental as an Investment Partner and a member of the investment committee. His responsibilities include identifying, vetting, and supporting early-stage companies that have the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions or improve resource efficiency. His leadership helps guide the fund’s strategic direction and portfolio management, amplifying the fund's mission to promote a low-carbon economy in the UK.

3. The Clean Growth Fund’s Mission and Scope

The Clean Growth Fund targets UK-based startups innovating in sectors including power, buildings, transport, industry, and waste/water management. Backed by cornerstone investments from the UK Government's Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and CCLA (a large charity fund manager), the fund focuses on Seed and Series A stages where companies typically face technical, operational, and market risks. Under Tudor’s stewardship, the fund aims to accelerate the commercialisation of clean technologies that contribute to the UK’s 2050 net zero goal.

4. Prior Experience Influencing Current Role

Jonathan Tudor’s previous roles enriched his understanding of corporate venture capital and technology innovation. For example, as Head of Technology Strategy at Centrica, he was deeply engaged with energy transition technologies. Also, while at BP Ventures, he co-led the investment team focusing on mobility and energy transitions, positioning him uniquely to lead VC investments in cleantech sectors. These experiences shaped his capability to bridge corporation-scale strategy with nimble startup innovation.

5. Investment Philosophy and Criteria

Tudor’s investment approach balances the dual objectives of financial returns and impactful environmental benefits. The Clean Growth Fund under his guidance seeks companies that have limited technical risk but may include engineering scale-up challenges and market risks. Key to this is identifying ventures with viable solutions for carbon reduction or resource efficiency that can become commercially successful while creating green jobs across the UK.

6. Impact on UK Clean Technology Sector

Jonathan Tudor plays a significant role in nurturing the UK’s cleantech ecosystem. His expertise in venture investment helps startups scale innovations from early development to market-ready products. The Clean Growth Fund’s growing portfolio and the high response from clean-tech enterprises across the UK are testaments to his and the fund’s influence on advancing climate change solutions.

7. Board Memberships and Leadership Roles

Beyond his work at the Clean Growth Fund, Tudor serves on the boards of several portfolio companies such as HutanBio and Measurable.energy, contributing his experience to their strategic growth. Previously, he held board roles at firms including Zubie and Indra Renewable Technologies. His advisory roles extend across Europe, the US, and Israel, underscoring his contribution to global clean technology development.

8. Notable Investments and Contributions

Among notable investments led by Tudor are companies developing technologies in biofuels, smart energy management, and sustainable agriculture. For example, the Clean Growth Fund’s investment in Indra, a UK-based smart charging and vehicle-to-grid technology company, reflects Tudor’s emphasis on addressing decarbonisation through innovative energy solutions. The fund also supports cutting-edge biotech ventures like FA Bio, which develops microbial products to improve soil health and reduce agrochemical use.

9. Advocacy and Public Engagement

Tudor frequently participates in industry forums and conferences focused on ESG, venture capital, and the transition to a net-zero economy. He advocates for balanced fiduciary responsibility and ESG performance, helping investors and innovators navigate the challenges and opportunities in the clean-tech investment landscape. His public engagements help raise awareness and build networks critical for scaling climate solutions.

10. Future Outlook and Challenges

Looking ahead, Tudor faces the challenge of driving investment into scalable clean technologies amid market uncertainties and evolving climate policies. However, his experience positions him well to capitalize on growth opportunities in emerging sectors such as energy storage, smart grids, and sustainable transportation. With the UK committed to ambitious climate targets, his role in shaping the investment ecosystem supporting these innovations is expected to grow in importance.

Conclusion

Jonathan Tudor exemplifies the blend of scientific expertise and venture capital acumen required to advance the clean technology sector. Through his role at the Clean Growth Fund, he has helped channel vital investment into UK startups seeking to combat climate change and promote sustainability. His career journey, diverse experience, and commitment to nurturing innovation provide a powerful example of how finance and technology can work hand in hand to create a greener future. As the fight against climate change intensifies, Tudor’s contributions underscore the critical role of strategic investment in shaping a sustainable global economy.