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CleanTechies

#242 The 3 Most Common Mistakes Climate Founders Make | David Brekke, Goodwin

Apr 16, 2025
58:07

In This Episode:

  • The story of him co-launching the Goodwin climate practice
  • What’s happening in climate tech right now? (Market update)
  • The 3 Biggest Mistakes Climate Founders Make

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What’s up, everyone! 

Today’s episode is special since we’re speaking with David Brekke from Goodwin. In case you somehow missed it, Goodwin is the sponsor of our podcast, so yes, this is sponsored content. (tbh, even if it were not, we’d still have David on — but don’t tell him that)

With everything going on in the world of climate tech right now, it’s hard to know which end is up. But David has a great perspective. 

You see, he’s always interacting with tons of founders and investors in climate. He sees the good, the bad, and the ugly. 

For this reason, he’s one of the best people to get a read on the market from. 

In addition to a market update, we get to hear the story of him going to Goodwin to start the climate practice. 

Then he walks us through the greatest hits of what to do and what not to do. He’s been around the block, and in addition to his experience, they have an entire team with even more grey hair that knows how to guide founders. 

This episode is value-packed — enjoy! 

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📺 Watch on YouTube


Topics
03:11 Building a Climate Practice at Goodwin
06:08 Law x Climate Innovation
09:12 Personal Motivations in Climate Tech
12:04 Navigating the Climate VC Landscape
15:10 Challenges and Opportunities for Climate Founders
17:56 The Role of Legal Advisors in Startups
21:00 Current Climate Market Dynamics
24:03 The Future of Climate Investments
27:13 Rebranding in the Climate Sector
30:02 Reorienting Climate Tech Pitches
33:19 The Evolution of Climate VC Participation
36:42 Navigating Fundraising Challenges
37:11 Common Mistakes in Climate Tech Startups
48:01 Investor Relations and Stakeholder Management

Links
David Brekke | Goodwin
Book: Venture Deals
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This podcast is NOT investment or legal advice. Do your homework and due diligence before investing in anything discussed on this podcast.

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