Penn Climate, Venture Lab, and Wharton Impact are pleased to present the 2026-2027 Climate Entrepreneurship Series for students across Penn interested in climate innovation and finance.
The Climate Entrepreneurship Series leverages Wharton Impact’s expertise in impact investing, Venture Lab’s company-creation and launch capabilities, and Penn Climate’s commitment to climate education across the University. In the 2026-2027 academic year, students will have opportunities to engage with speakers and mentors around topics like climate investing, climate and sustainability start-ups, and impactful career planning. All students across Penn are invited to take part, whether you are thinking about a climate start-up, have a fully formed venture, or just want to learn more about different career paths.
As part of this collaboration, Darren Thompson, Wharton Impact’s 2026-2027 Nazarian Social Innovator in Residence, will be offering mentoring sessions, coffee chats, and other programs. As a former Goldman Sachs Managing Director and CFO of Bowery Farming, he is excited to connect with students interested in entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainability.
2026-2027 Opportunities Include:
October 21, 2026 – Climate Investing & Entrepreneurship Panel
December 3, 2026 — Lessons Learned from the Climate Venture Space
Check back regularly as events will be added throughout the year.
Interested in meeting with Darren to talk about your venture, your career path, or a special project you’re working on? Request a coffee chat with Darren – meetings will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
