Spark Accelerator Cohort 5

Spark Accelerator Cohort 5 is a 12-week program for early-stage, innovation-driven startups in advanced energy and energy infrastructure. The program takes place at the University of Tennessee Research Park at Cherokee Farm in Knoxville, Tennessee. Participants receive access to prototyping services, experienced mentors, customers, investors, strategic partners, suppliers, universities, and national laboratories. The program is structured to help companies refine their technologies, prepare for market entry, and build durable, scalable businesses.

Key Benefits

• $15,000 stipend to cover travel and living costs while in Knoxville
• Advanced prototyping services
• Prototyping services through the University of Tennessee’s Center for Materials Processing
• Mentoring and one-on-one expert support
• Connections with customers, investors, strategic partners, suppliers, universities, and national laboratories
• Training workshops and business acceleration services
• Potential partnership opportunities with TVA, Oak Ridge National Lab, the University of Tennessee, the City of Knoxville, and members of the Tennessee Advanced Energy Business Council

Eligibility

• Early-stage cleantech entrepreneurs
• Early-stage, innovation-driven startups
• Startups working in advanced energy and energy infrastructure
• Startups preparing to commercialize new innovations

Program Structure

• 12-week in-person program
• Program takes place at the University of Tennessee Research Park at Cherokee Farm in Knoxville, Tennessee
• Participants receive structured deliverables designed to move their businesses forward
• Participants receive mentorship, prototyping support, workshops, and one-on-one business acceleration support
• Participants gain access to customers, investors, strategic partners, suppliers, universities, and national laboratories

Dates & Duration

• Program duration: 12 weeks
• Program start date: August 26, 2026
• Program end date: November 19, 2026
• Additional date note: One provided description states the program begins on August 24, 2026

Staff listed for the program includes Bill Malkes, Lillian Lovingood, Olivia Tanner, and one additional staff member not specified by name. Spark Innovation Center is described as a partner of the Tennessee Valley Authority. The partnership with TVA includes facilitated access to TVA experts, exploration of potential pilot opportunities, and connections with TVA industry partners.