Grid Catalyst Announced the Five Energy Startups Selected for the
2022 Energy Startup Cohort For Demonstration.
Grid Catalyst is the only clean energy accelerator focused on project demonstration and deploying solutions for cold climates. With global investments in clean energy and climate technology at an all-time high, this program aims to establish Minnesota as a northern hub for energy innovation and late-stage startups looking to deploy.
“We are at a pivotal moment in building the next generation of the energy system,” said Nina Axelson, founder of Grid Catalyst. “Minnesota is well-positioned to be a cold-climate technology hub, attracting innovators and entrepreneurs to team up with our energy leaders in the public and private sector to deploy groundbreaking climate solutions. The five exceptional startups in our inaugural cohort will use this platform to demonstrate cutting-edge technologies with potential for global impact.”
Partnerships Key to Showcases, Investment, and Growth
All projects are being deployed in Minnesota, in partnership with clean energy leaders from across the state known as the Innovators Network.
The Innovators Network is made up of utilities, higher education, Fortune 500 businesses, nonprofits, and local governments. Through their partnership with startups, members gain access to novel technologies that can solve system and customer challenges, as well as exemplify their commitment to accelerating clean energy deployment, strengthening regional economic development, and taking action on climate change.
These demonstration projects are a critical step in the development process for these startups. Proving out their technology in real-world applications will attract investors and new customers, with long-term potential for manufacturing partnerships and regional job growth. Accelerated energy ventures also access nearly twice as much financing, earn 50% higher revenue growth, and average 16% more full-time hires.
“We are honored to be selected for the Grid Catalyst inaugural cohort. As a clean energy startup in hard tech, demonstration projects are key to showing the market how well our technology performs and that it is viable at scale. Working with the University of Minnesota and Otter Tail Power, through this accelerator program, is an exciting opportunity for us to advance geothermal heating and cooling alternatives that aren’t dependent on fossil fuels, which can be more challenging in the upper Midwest,” said Brian Larson, Darcy Solutions CEO.
The cohort includes companies hailing from Minnesota, New York, Texas, and Washington.