Venture for ClimateTech Accelerator Program – Apply now!

Following a venture studio + accelerator model, they source the most promising climate tech innovators from around the world and offer them initial funding and hands-on support until they are ready for first customers, pilot runs, and investment. Throughout the annual cohort-based virtual program, founders will have support to build strong teams and tackle commercialization challenges.

Purpose

• The goal of Venture for ClimateTech is to accelerate innovations likely to have substantial climate impacts for all, and which have potential for adoption in NYS. In particular, they want to offer a path to help entrepreneurs whose highly impactful innovations face unique barriers to commercialization through normal processes due to long paths to market and high capital intensity, along with other more traditional startups.

Cohort Benefits

• Validate the Market Opportunity
  • Conduct customer discovery to test your innovation within true market realities.
• Get Comprehensive Support
  • The vision into reality with tools, mentor-driven education, connections, and coaching.
• Secure Funding
  • Launch your ClimateTech business with up to $50,000 in non-dilutive funding.
• Access Free or Discounted Services Through the  Perk Partners
  • Prepare your inventory, distribution, quality assurance, logistics, and fulfillment plans to deliver high-quality products, on time.
• Build a Robust Team
  • Tap into the diverse ecosystem and get help with early hires.
• Gain a Pathway to Scale
  • Get manufacturing support through Scale for ClimateTech and introductions to other programs when you’re ready to move your prototype into production.

Eligibility Criteria

• They broadly are interested in companies developing technologies which have the potential to substantially reduce GHG emissions globally, and in the state of New York in particular. The fourth cohort will focus on decarbonizing four key sectors: Buildings, Transportation, Grid, and Industry. Companies with solutions that positively help communities impacted by climate change are strongly encouraged to apply.

Selection Criteria

• The potential carbon equivalent reduction impact of the technology or service.
• The business opportunity makes sense, is substantial, and there is evidence of market interest.
• The founder or founding team is sharp, motivated, self-aware, and coachable
• The company is of an appropriate stage, and is positioned to benefit substantially from participation in the program.
• The startup product or service has a clear fit with the NYS ecosystem, in terms of having the opportunity for a presence, partnerships, or a market within the stage.
• The solution addresses and/or involves underserved communities in development or application.

For more information, visit NextCorps.