Introducing Derrick Tang – California’s new Head of Programs

Derrick Tang, the program director for New Energy Nexus California standing in front of colorful skateboards.

Derrick Tang, the head of programs for New Energy Nexus California.

With over 15 years of experience in climate investments, venture capital, and clean energy entrepreneurship, Derrick Tang brings a wealth of expertise in funding and scaling climate solutions that prioritize equity and innovation. His experience and passion for cultivating the clean energy ecosystem in California made him an ideal choice to head up programs at the California chapter. A Cornell University graduate with a B.S. in Chemical Engineering, Derrick combines technical expertise with investment and policy leadership to drive systemic change in the clean energy sector. His career has been defined by launching and managing high-impact programs that support underrepresented entrepreneurs and accelerate the transition to a sustainable economy: As Deputy Director of Venture Capital at IBank California, he was appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom to lead the state’s first public venture fund, deploying $250 million to underrepresented founders, underserved communities, and climate justice initiatives. At the Bay Area Air District, he founded and led the Climate Investments team, creating the agency’s first loan program and California’s first loan guarantee program for climate startups. He also embedded racial and social equity into investment strategies. In his prior role at New Energy Nexus, Derrick helped launch CalSEED, a grant and economic development initiative supporting early-stage clean energy entrepreneurs.

“I feel honored to take on this role at New Energy Nexus and shape the programs we offer to energy entrepreneurs throughout California,” said Tang, “The success of the innovations we have supported over the years proves our programs’ impact. Now we face new challenges and new opportunities, and I’m excited to help lead our efforts to meet this moment.”

Please join us in welcoming Derrick back to the New Energy Nexus team, this time in a leadership role. He will drive programs that empower diverse founders and accelerate the clean energy transition! Subscribe to the California newsletter for monthly updates about the programs and startups this chapter supports.

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