The Future Labs Accelerator, affiliated with NYU Tandon School of Engineering, is more than just a startup program—it’s a launching pad for founders building deep-tech, climate, urban, and AI solutions in the heart of NYC. With a diverse portfolio of accelerator tracks, industry connections, and a university-powered innovation engine behind it, Future Labs is one of the most unique founder-support ecosystems on the East Coast.
From equity-free resources to market access through public-private partnerships, this accelerator is built to move serious startups forward—without taking your cap table hostage.
If you’re building in climatetech, AI, urban mobility, or any future-forward sector, keep reading. Here’s everything you need to know about Future Labs.
Program Overview: What Future Labs Offers
Future Labs Accelerator is not just one accelerator—it’s a network of programs tailored to different industries, stages, and founder needs. Here are the most notable tracks:
♻️ Carbon to Value Initiative (C2V)
- Focus: Carbontech startups transforming captured CO₂ into commercial products.
- Partnerships: Greentown Labs & Fraunhofer USA.
- Standout Feature: Access to the Carbontech Leadership Council—top corporate and government partners shaping climate innovation.
- Eligibility: TRL 4–7. Must incorporate captured carbon as a key input.
- Perks: Deep industry mentorship, market access, customized programming.
⚡ Low-Carbon Hydrogen Accelerator (LCHA)
- Focus: Hydrogen innovation across production, storage, and distribution.
- Backed By: EPRI, Shell, Greentown Labs, City of Houston.
- Format: Hybrid with presence in Houston and NYC.
- Target: Climate startups enabling the hydrogen economy.
💡 Catalyst NYC
- Focus: Equity-free accelerator for early-stage tech startups.
- Duration: 6 months.
- Sectors: AI, AR/VR, cybersecurity, Web3, healthtech, robotics, smart cities.
- Support: $350K+ in in-kind services, NYU mentorship, access to MakerSpace, Amazon/Google credits, pro bono legal.
- Bonus: Startups may graduate into the Future Labs’ “Next Round” program.
🌍 Global Incubator Programme
- Purpose: Helps international climatetech startups explore the U.S. market.
- Run With: Innovate UK and Urban Future Lab.
- Structure: Virtual + in-person immersion trips.
- Benefit: Introductions to U.S. partners, investors, and regulators.
🔋 NYPA Innovation Challenge
- Focus: Energy storage & EV technologies.
- Partner: New York Power Authority.
- Opportunity: Potential NYPA pilot deployments and utility partnerships.
- TRL: 5–6. Near-commercial readiness.
Investment Terms
Future Labs Accelerator uses flexible models depending on the program:
| Program | Investment Model | Equity Taken |
|---|---|---|
| Catalyst NYC | Equity-free | 0% |
| C2V, LCHA, NYPA, Global | Grant or partner-funded | Varies |
🌟 While Catalyst NYC is 100% non-dilutive, other programs may facilitate follow-on funding, pilots, or investment through corporate partnerships or grant-making bodies.
Who Should Apply?
Future Labs Accelerator accepts a diverse range of startups across different industries and geographies. Here’s what makes a strong applicant:
🧠 Stage Fit
- Pre-seed to seed stage for Catalyst NYC.
- TRL 4–7 for carbontech/hydrogen programs.
- Must have at least a working prototype and a clear path to market.
🌍 Sector Focus
- Climate/energy (carbontech, hydrogen, EVs)
- Smart cities & urban mobility
- AI & emerging tech
- HealthTech
- Veterans-led ventures (via Veterans Future Lab)
🏙️ NYC Connection
Some programs (like Catalyst NYC) prioritize NYC-based startups or those committed to building in the region.
Application Process
Each program has its own cycle and criteria, but the general process looks like this:
- Online Application – Pitch deck + team & traction overview.
- Review by Program Leads – Industry fit, tech readiness, founder commitment.
- Interviews or Proposal Evaluation – Especially for NYPA & international programs.
- Cohort Acceptance – Limited seats per track. Highly competitive.
📥 Deadlines vary, so always check the Future Labs Accelerator website for the latest.
Key Benefits for Founders
Here’s why hundreds of startups apply to Future Labs Accelerator every year:
✅ Equity-Free Growth
Especially in Catalyst NYC—no dilution, just value.
✅ University-Backed Innovation
Tied to NYU Tandon School of Engineering. Access to technical experts, researchers, and talent.
✅ $350K+ in Perks
From legal to cloud credits to workspace.
✅ Access to NYC Ecosystem
Mentors, VCs, government agencies, and corporate partners—all in the city that never sleeps.
✅ MakerSpace Access
Build and test physical products on-site at NYU.
✅ StartUp NY Tax Exemption
State-level support to reduce your operational burden.
Portfolio Highlights
While not all portfolios are publicly listed, notable names from the Future Labs Accelerator network (particularly Urban Future Lab) include:
- Air Company – Carbon-to-alcohol tech
- Dollaride – Transit for underserved communities
- BlocPower – Smart buildings and electrification
📈 The track record is there—especially in climatetech.
Key People
These are the folks shaping Future Labs Accelerator:
- Steven Kuyan – Managing Director, Future Labs & Catalyst NYC
- Pat Sapinsley – Managing Director of Cleantech Initiatives, Urban Future Lab
- Frederic Clerc – Director, Carbon to Value Initiative
- Jessica Gross – Project Manager, C2V
- Aisling Carlson – SVP, Greentown Labs (C2V Partner)
🧑💼 Each program has its own mentors and advisors, often including NYU faculty, VCs, and industry leaders.
How Competitive Is Future Labs Accelerator?
Acceptance rates aren’t public, but the selectivity is high. Catalyst NYC accepts a limited cohort per cycle. Carbon and hydrogen tracks require advanced technology and commercialization potential.
Pro tip: Tailor your application to show domain knowledge, a committed team, and market readiness.
FAQs
❓Do they invest?
Only certain programs (like NYPA or THEI) offer funding. Catalyst NYC is non-dilutive.
❓Is it remote or in-person?
Most programs are hybrid. Catalyst NYC offers desk space; others are flexible or international.
❓How long is the program?
6 months for Catalyst NYC and Global Incubator; varies for others.
❓Are international startups welcome?
Yes—especially via the Global Incubator and hydrogen/carbon initiatives.
VC Partners & Funding Pathways
Future Labs Accelerator doesn’t operate as a fund but often connects startups with NYC-based VCs, NYU alumni investors, and strategic partners. NYPA and Shell are known to engage in follow-on pilots or funding based on program performance.💼
Tips to Get In Future Labs Accelerator
Here’s how to stand out:
- 🔍 Align with the right track (e.g. don’t pitch healthtech to a hydrogen program).
- 📊 Show evidence of traction or proof-of-concept.
- 👥 Highlight team experience, grit, and coachability.
- 🌍 Emphasize your NYC presence—or your plan to grow there.
- 🎯 Be clear about what you want from the program (funding? pilot? mentors?).
- 🧰 Nail your pitch deck—especially the market, problem, and execution plan.
Final Thoughts: Is Future Labs Right for You?
If you’re building high-impact tech—especially in clean energy, smart cities, or AI—Future Labs Accelerator offers deep value with a powerful NYC and university-based support network. With equity-free options, domain-specific accelerators, and access to public-private resources, it’s an ideal match for early-stage startups that are ready to scale smart and fast.🚀
Looking to turn breakthrough ideas into real-world ventures?
Future Labs Accelerator might just be your next move.
