Venture Fellows 2026: Driving Solutions for a Sustainable Future (United States)

For 2026, the program focuses on three key areas: Weather-Resilient Urban Infrastructure, Reliable & Equitable Energy Systems, and Clean Air, Safe Water, & Sustainable Food.

Launched in 2022, the Venture Fellows Program seeks to identify, nurture, and scale promising innovations that tackle pressing challenges such as unpredictable weather events, health concerns from polluted air, water, and energy sources, and the lack of nutritious, affordable, and sustainably grown food. The program is designed to fit the busy schedules of innovators, with most activities conducted virtually and select in-person opportunities to connect, collaborate, and showcase solutions. Participants’ projects are selected based on their potential to test and scale in Los Angeles, ensuring meaningful impact in the communities the program serves.

Over the course of eight months, participants receive world-class technical assistance and one-on-one mentorship, strategic guidance to refine business models and scale solutions, and access to interactive workshops on customer discovery, market entry, and regulatory pathways. The program also provides direct connections to LA-based sustainability organizations, research institutions, utilities, investors, and community partners, as well as potential pilot funding and support in identifying and applying for grants and other funding opportunities. Participation in the program is fully cost-free to ensure accessibility and inclusion.

The Venture Fellows Program is designed for innovators who are beyond the idea stage, actively engaging customers, partners, or investors, and are ready to validate or pilot their solutions within Los Angeles communities. Solutions should align with one or more of the program’s challenge areas, aiming to create scalable and impactful environmental solutions that respond to the city’s most pressing needs.

For more information, visit Larta Institute.