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Third Sphere

We support founders who turn theory into action as they work to build a better world for everyone

New York, NY, USA

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Description

Third Sphere (formerly Urban Us) is a New York-based climate-focused venture capital firm that partners with founders building transformative technologies and systems-level solutions addressing global challenges like clean energy, sustainable infrastructure, climate mitigation, resilience, and connected logistics. Since 2013, it has backed 100+ startups — including climate-tech innovators like Bowery Farming, Onewheel, and Cove Tool — and supports founders with capital, coaching, and access to a broad ecosystem network designed to accelerate impact and scale. 

Eligibility

• Early-stage climate tech and systems innovation startups with demonstrable product/technology and market potential.
• Founders ready for institutional venture capital engagement and willing to participate in strategic, impact-oriented scaling.
• Geographic focus primarily U.S.-based with global portfolio reach (including Europe, Israel, etc.).

Process

  1. Founder Outreach & Sourcing: Startups connect via network introductions, direct outreach, or ecosystem engagement, where Third Sphere evaluates fit with its climate and systems thesis. 

  2. Pitch & Evaluation: Potential portfolio companies present pitch materials and undergo diligence on team, solution, market impact, and growth potential. 

  3. Term Negotiation: If selected, investment amount and equity terms are negotiated per company, and an investment is made aligned with risk and stage. 

  4. Capital Deployment & Support: Capital is deployed to support product development, customer traction, and scaling, with ongoing strategic guidance and ecosystem introductions. 

  5. Follow-On Engagement: The firm may participate in future rounds as companies mature and expand beyond initial stages. 


What an Applicant can Obtain

• Early-stage climate tech and systems innovation startups with demonstrable product/technology and market potential.
• Founders ready for institutional venture capital engagement and willing to participate in strategic, impact-oriented scaling.
• Geographic focus primarily U.S.-based with global portfolio reach (including Europe, Israel, etc.).