Being an academic researcher can provide a great foundation to become a founder, and playing to strengths is essential. But some parts of the commercialisation journey can seem alien, or even counterintuitive, when considered from an academic perspective – from pitching to investors without peer-reviewed data to pivoting your technology based on market feedback rather than scientific merit. How can you make the most of your rigorous, evidence-based, and scientific mind as you embark on your founder journey? And what new mindsets could serve you well, as the whims of the market take centre stage? Drawing from examples of successful academic-founder transitions in climate tech, we’ll explore how to bridge the gap between laboratory excellence and commercial success.