Looking to launch or scale a climate-focused startup in 2025? You’re not alone—and you’re not too late. With billions flowing into energy transition, carbon removal, sustainable infrastructure, and climate resilience, the race to fund and build planet-positive solutions is accelerating fast. And nowhere is that momentum more visible than in the U.S. accelerator ecosystem.
In this guide, we break down the top 20 Clean Tech and Climate Tech accelerators in the United States—who they’re for, what they offer, and how to stand out when applying. Whether you’re developing breakthrough battery chemistry, software for grid optimization, or next-gen carbon markets, these programs can help you move from lab to market with real traction.
1. Techstars Alabama EnergyTech Accelerator
Backed by Techstars and powered by Alabama Power, this accelerator gives energy and climate tech founders a front-row seat to one of the Southeast’s fastest-growing innovation ecosystems. Focused on everything from carbon capture to EV infrastructure, the program offers $220K in funding, deep utility access, and global Techstars mentorship—all from its in-person base in Birmingham.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: Birmingham, Alabama (In-person)
🧑💻 Program Type: 13-week mentorship-driven accelerator
💸 Equity Taken: ✅ ~5% (for $220K)
💰 Investment Offered: $20K equity + $200K uncapped SAFE
⏳ Duration: 3 months
🚀 Stage: Seed-stage (pre-seed to early traction)
🌎 Industry Focus: Energy, grid tech, carbon capture, mobility, renewables, energy efficiency
💡 Pro Tip: Solve Utility-Grade Problems
This program is built for startups ready to partner with power companies. Tailor your pitch to the energy customer—whether that’s smarter grid ops, new revenue models, or major carbon cuts. Founders with real traction or unique tech—and a strong team—stand out fast.
2. Plug and Play Tech Center – Energy & Sustainability
As one of the world’s most prolific startup platforms, Plug and Play (PnP) offers unparalleled access to corporate partners, investors, and pilot opportunities. Its Energy & Sustainability vertical focuses on climate-critical sectors like carbon capture, grid innovation, EVs, and smart infrastructure—bringing founders face-to-face with decision-makers at utilities, oil & gas giants, and clean tech investors. With no equity required, it’s a flexible entry point into the global climate ecosystem.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: Sunnyvale, CA (HQ) + global hubs (e.g., Houston, Europe)
🧑💻 Program Type: 12-week hybrid corporate accelerator (multiple cohorts per year)
💸 Equity Taken: ❌ None (participation fees may apply)
💰 Investment Offered: ❌ None standard; optional follow-on via Plug and Play Ventures
⏳ Duration: 3 months + extended pilot opportunities
🚀 Stage: Seed to Series B
🌎 Industry Focus: Energy, climate tech, mobility, carbon capture, smart grid, sustainable materials
💡 Pro Tip: Think Corporate, Not Just VC
PnP isn’t about demo day hype—it’s about landing pilots and customers. Tailor your pitch to partner needs (e.g., utility decarbonization or industrial energy savings). If your tech fits a Fortune 500’s sustainability roadmap, you’ve got a shot at a major commercial win—without giving up equity.
3. Y Combinator
You’ve heard of Y Combinator—but did you know it’s quietly building a serious climate tech portfolio? While YC is famously generalist, each batch includes standout sustainability startups tackling carbon, energy, food systems, and grid resilience. With $500K in funding, world-class mentors, and the most powerful Demo Day in tech, even climate founders find YC a rocket ship worth riding.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: Mountain View, CA (HQ) + global remote participation
🧑💻 Program Type: Biannual 3-month accelerator (Winter/Summer batches)
💸 Equity Taken: ✅ 7% for $125K + $375K SAFE (uncapped, MFN)
💰 Investment Offered: $500K total
⏳ Duration: 3 months
🚀 Stage: Pre-seed to Seed
🌎 Industry Focus: General tech; ~2–4% of each batch are climate/energy startups
💡 Pro Tip: YC Loves Bold Climate Bets
To get in, act like a top-tier founder solving a billion-dollar problem—and then explain why your climate tech is that big. Alumni like Pachama, Heimdal, and Alga Biosciences show that YC backs serious sustainability moonshots. Strong traction, scientific clarity, and urgency go a long way.
4. IndieBio
For founders building science-heavy climate solutions—from synthetic biology to carbon capture—IndieBio is one of the most powerful launchpads in the world. Backed by SOSV, this deep-tech accelerator provides up to $525K in funding, access to 80,000+ sq. ft. of state-of-the-art lab space, and a rigorous 4–6 month program. With a mission focused on “Human and Planetary Health,” IndieBio actively supports startups tackling climate, food, energy, and materials challenges using biology and chemistry.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: San Francisco, CA & New York, NY (Hybrid)
🧪 Program Type: 4–6 month in-person/hybrid accelerator
💸 Equity Taken: ✅ ~8–10% (via SAFE)
💰 Investment Offered: Up to $525K total ($200K–$250K cash + lab & program support)
⏳ Duration: 4–6 months
🧬 Stage: Pre-seed to Seed
🌎 Industry Focus: Climate Tech, AgTech, FoodTech, SynBio, Environmental Biotech, Advanced Materials
💡 Pro Tip: Best Fit for Deep-Tech Founders Solving Climate Problems
IndieBio is ideal if you’re turning scientific research into real-world climate solutions. From carbon-negative concrete (Carbix) to methane-reducing livestock tech (Hoofprint Biome), their portfolio is stacked with cutting-edge climate startups. To get in, show a strong science+founder combo, a bold sustainability mission, and readiness for a fast-paced lab + business sprint. Bonus: SOSV is a true long-term partner, often leading follow-on rounds after Demo Day.
5. Techstars WaterTech & Sustainability Accelerator
Positioned at the intersection of water innovation and climate resilience, the Techstars WaterTech & Sustainability Accelerator is a rare, in-person program dedicated to water-focused startups. Hosted at the University of Alabama—home to national water research centers—the accelerator connects founders with top-tier labs, local utility partners, and the full Techstars global network. It’s an emerging hub for water-tech breakthroughs in the heart of the South.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: Tuscaloosa, Alabama (In-person)
🧑💻 Program Type: 13-week mentorship accelerator + optional Founder Catalyst pre-accelerator
💸 Equity Taken: ✅ ~5%
💰 Investment Offered: $20K equity + $200K SAFE (total $220K)
⏳ Duration: 3 months
🚀 Stage: Early-stage (MVP to pre-seed/seed)
🌎 Industry Focus: Water treatment, clean water access, wastewater, infrastructure, circular water systems, water data & analytics
💡 Pro Tip: Pitch Real-World Water Impact
Founders tackling urgent water challenges—clean access, infrastructure, wastewater reuse—fit best here. Bring clear traction or tech differentiation, and highlight how your solution supports sustainability goals. Leverage the University’s water research ecosystem for credibility and pilot potential.
6. gener8tor Sustainability Accelerator
Designed for startups addressing the climate crisis head-on, the gener8tor Sustainability Accelerator invests $100K for 7.5% equity and delivers a focused 12-week program filled with coaching, mentor access, and climate-specific resources. While the program is primarily virtual, founders can also attend in-person events in Chicago, gaining access to a robust Midwest and global climate tech network.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: Virtual-first with in-person sessions in Chicago, IL
🧑💻 Program Type: 12-week hybrid accelerator
💸 Equity Taken: ✅ 7.5% (via SAFE)
💰 Investment Offered: $100,000 per company
⏳ Duration: 12 weeks
🚀 Stage: Seed to early traction
🌎 Industry Focus: Climate and environmental tech (renewables, circular economy, carbon, water, food systems, etc.)
💡 Pro Tip: Climate Impact + Coachability Wins
gener8tor backs founders who are mission-driven and execution-ready. To stand out, show strong early traction, a big climate vision, and a coachable, high-integrity founding team. Leverage their office hours before applying—they notice teams who engage early and come prepared.
7. Third Derivative
Backed by Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) and New Energy Nexus, Third Derivative (D³) is a high-impact, long-duration accelerator focused on scaling climate deep tech across hard-to-abate sectors. From CO₂-to-fuel startups to advanced materials and grid innovations, D³ connects founders with $4T+ in corporate partners and $8B in aligned climate investors, all while providing tailored support over 18 months—much longer than the typical accelerator sprint.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: Denver-based (RMI HQ); virtual and global participation
🧑💻 Program Type: 18-month cohort accelerator with thematic focus
💸 Equity Taken: ❌ None (optional $100K convertible note)
💰 Investment Offered: Optional $100K note + partner grants + pilot funding
⏳ Duration: 18 months
🚀 Stage: Seed to growth (hardware/software climate tech)
🌎 Industry Focus: Deep-tech climate solutions – carbon removal, grid, aviation, agtech, clean fuels, heavy industry
💡 Pro Tip: Prepare for the Long Game
Third Derivative is not a quick accelerator—it’s a strategic launchpad for startups building for scale. Come ready with a technical edge, global ambition, and a willingness to collaborate with giants like Shell, Disney, and FedEx. For the right fit, the access is unmatched.
8. Shell GameChanger Accelerator (GCxN) Powered by NREL
Built for startups tackling the toughest energy and industrial decarbonization challenges, GCxN pairs the resources of Shell’s GameChanger venture lab with the technical power of DOE’s NREL labs. Through a 6-month program, startups receive lab validation, engineering expertise, and strategic introductions—without giving up equity. It’s a rare accelerator with deep scientific infrastructure and global scaling potential.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: Golden, CO (NREL) + international network
🧑💻 Program Type: 6+ month cohort-based technical accelerator
💸 Equity Taken: ❌ None
💰 Investment Offered: In-kind only (lab access, R&D, pilot support; occasional funding case-by-case)
⏳ Duration: ~6 months
🚀 Stage: Early to growth-stage (TRL 5–8)
🌎 Industry Focus: Clean energy, power electronics, carbon capture, energy storage, grid modernization, circular manufacturing
💡 Pro Tip: Position for Deep Tech Validation
GCxN isn’t for concept-stage startups. You’ll need a mature prototype, clear decarbonization use case, and readiness for lab-scale or field validation. Get introduced through partners like incubators or labs—and align your pitch with Shell’s future energy focus and DOE R&D goals.
9. Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator (IN²)
Unlike traditional accelerators, the Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator (IN²) offers non-dilutive funding to startups through a unique public–private model backed by Wells Fargo and the U.S. Department of Energy’s NREL. Instead of cohorts, IN² funds projects via local channel partners—often nonprofits or energy hubs—who deploy your solution into real-world pilots. It’s ideal for startups seeking validation, funding, and access to utilities or municipalities.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: Denver, CO (national reach via channel partners)
🧑💻 Program Type: Annual pilot commercialization grants via DOE/NREL + nonprofit partners
💸 Equity Taken: ❌ None
💰 Investment Offered: $100K–$200K per pilot project (grant-based)
⏳ Duration: ~12 months (project-based)
🚀 Stage: Deployment-ready (TRL 6–8)
🌎 Industry Focus: Energy efficiency, grid innovation, distributed energy, community-focused clean tech
💡 Pro Tip: Think Ecosystem, Not Just Product
To win IN² support, frame your solution around regional impact, local partnerships, and utility collaboration. Strong proposals come through channel partners—so start building relationships with nonprofit incubators, DOE labs, or energy coalitions early.
10. LabStart Accelerator – Climate Tech Fellowship
LabStart is a purpose-built climate tech accelerator for first-time and underrepresented founders looking to spin out breakthrough technologies from national research labs. Structured as a 16-month, two-phase fellowship, LabStart supports startups from idea to launch with up to $100K in milestone-based funding, IP support, and tailored deep-tech mentorship. It’s one of the few programs focused on diverse talent + hard climate innovation from the earliest stages.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: U.S.-based (hybrid model with in-person events, official HQ in Oakland, CA)
🧑💻 Program Type: Fellowship (4-month part-time Discovery Phase + 12-month full-time Launch Phase)
💸 Equity Taken: ✅ SAFE convertible note (triggered at next financing round)
💰 Investment Offered: Up to $100K in milestone-based funding + $6K Discovery grant
⏳ Duration: 16 months total (2-phase structure)
🚀 Stage: Idea to pre-seed (lab-to-market transition stage)
🌎 Industry Focus: Clean energy, sustainable materials, waste, carbon, buildings, agtech, deep climate tech
💡 Pro Tip: Lab Tech Meets Founder-First Support
LabStart is ideal if you’re a technical expert, researcher, or engineer looking to launch a company—even if you haven’t yet formed one. The program is built to support first-time founders, particularly from underrepresented groups. Bring your passion, show your domain expertise, and lean into their mission: transforming world-class lab research into scalable climate solutions.
11. Cox Cleantech Accelerator
A partnership between Cox Enterprises and gener8tor, the Cox Cleantech Accelerator helps climate tech startups scale with the backing of a Fortune 500 company. Located in Atlanta’s Ponce City Market, this fully in-person, 12-week accelerator invests $100K in each startup and focuses on connecting founders to corporate pilots, enterprise customers, and growth-stage mentorship in the Southeast’s emerging sustainability ecosystem.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: Atlanta, GA (in-person residency required)
🧑💻 Program Type: 12-week corporate-backed accelerator
💸 Equity Taken: ✅ SAFE or convertible note (non-negotiable terms)
💰 Investment Offered: $100,000 per company
⏳ Duration: 12 weeks
🚀 Stage: Seed-stage climate tech
🌎 Industry Focus: Renewable energy, clean transportation, sustainable materials, food/land use, built environment, water/waste
💡 Pro Tip: Think Like a Corporate Partner
This is not just about funding—it’s about getting into real-world pilots with Cox’s enterprise arms. Bring traction or early deployments, and be prepared to relocate to Atlanta. Founders who align with Cox’s sustainability focus and are ready to scale into big industries will shine.
12. Evergreen Climate Innovations
If you’re building a climate tech startup in the U.S. Midwest, Evergreen Climate Innovations (formerly Clean Energy Trust) should be on your radar. As a nonprofit fund and accelerator based in Chicago, Evergreen provides $50K–$250K in early-stage investment along with tailored, hands-on support. Its portfolio includes some of the Midwest’s most promising climate ventures—from carbon capture to grid innovation—and its model blends patient capital with strategic mentorship.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: Chicago, IL (serving IL, IN, IA, KY, MI, MN, MO, OH, WI)
🧑💻 Program Type: Rolling investment + accelerator support (non-cohort)
💸 Equity Taken: ✅ Yes (minority equity stake on investment deals)
💰 Investment Offered: $50K–$250K per company
⏳ Duration: Ongoing portfolio support (2–5 years average)
🚀 Stage: Pre-seed to early seed
🌎 Industry Focus: Clean energy, industrial decarbonization, grid, mobility, water, materials, circular economy (Midwest focus)
💡 Pro Tip: Show Midwest Roots + Real Climate Impact
Evergreen is looking for solutions that benefit the region—whether that’s through decarbonizing local industry or partnering with utilities. A Chicago HQ isn’t mandatory, but strong Midwest ties are key. Get on their radar by attending regional climate events or startup showcases. Teams with traction (early pilots, strong founding teams, or customer interest) stand out most.
13. Elemental Excelerator
Few accelerators combine climate innovation and community impact like Elemental Excelerator. Based in Honolulu with offices in SF and DC, Elemental is a non-profit investor that deploys equity-free capital to help climate tech startups scale in real-world environments—especially in under-resourced communities. With $350K–$1M in grant funding per startup, deep mentorship, and a focus on equity and place-based deployment, it’s one of the most respected names in climate impact.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: Honolulu, HI; San Francisco, CA; Washington, DC (global operations)
🧑💻 Program Type: Non-profit accelerator with two tracks
• Strategy Track: 10 months (early-stage)
• Project Track: 12 months (growth-stage deployments)
💸 Equity Taken: ❌ None
💰 Investment Offered: $350K–$1M in non-dilutive funding
⏳ Duration: 10–12 months
🚀 Stage: Seed to Series B
🌎 Industry Focus: Broad climate tech – energy, mobility, circular economy, ag/food, materials
💡 Pro Tip: Climate + Community = Elemental Fit
To stand out, show how your tech solves real climate problems and serves frontline or underserved communities. A strong local deployment angle—especially in Hawaii or partner regions—is a major plus. Elemental backs serious science with serious purpose.
14. Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI)
Backed by the City of LA and LADWP, the Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI) is a non-profit powerhouse helping cleantech startups scale through pilots, funding, and local deployment. With programs ranging from equity-free founder accelerators to market access pilots and venture funding, LACI combines public partnerships, urban infrastructure, and inclusive innovation to build a truly regional climate impact engine.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: Los Angeles, CA (in-person with some virtual components)
🧑💻 Program Type: Incubator + accelerator + pilot programs (multiple tracks)
💸 Equity Taken:
• Incubation: 1.5–3% warrant (can be earned back via milestones)
• Market Access: 0.5–1.5% warrant
• FBA & EIP: ❌ No equity
💰 Investment Offered:
• Incubation: Up to $500K (equity and/or debt)
• Market Access: $50K–$150K grant for pilot deployment
• FBA/EIP: No direct funding, but access to LACI capital stack
⏳ Duration:
• Incubation: 2 years
• Market Access: 1–2 years (pilot-based)
• FBA & EIP: 6 months
🚀 Stage: Pre-seed to Series A (varies by track)
🌎 Industry Focus: Clean energy, zero-emissions mobility, sustainable cities, circular economy
💡 Pro Tip: Lead with LA Impact and Pilot Potential
LACI is deeply tied to the Los Angeles ecosystem—so emphasize how your solution supports the city’s climate goals or job creation. If you’ve got a pilot-ready product or a founding team from SoCal, you’re in prime position. Bonus points for diverse leadership and equity-driven missions.
15. Cyclotron Road (Berkeley, CA)
Hosted at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab and run by Activate, Cyclotron Road is a prestigious, lab-embedded fellowship for scientists and engineers building deep-tech climate hardware. Over two years, fellows gain full access to LBNL labs, receive up to $150K in research funding, and keep 100% of their IP—all while earning a living stipend and getting commercialization training. It’s not a traditional accelerator—it’s an elite launchpad for breakthrough energy and materials science.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: Berkeley, California (in-person at LBNL)
🧑💻 Program Type: 2-year full-time fellowship (lab-embedded incubator)
💸 Equity Taken: ❌ None
💰 Investment Offered: $80K–$115K stipend + $100K–$150K research support
⏳ Duration: 2 years
🚀 Stage: Deep-tech R&D (pre-company or early spinout)
🌎 Industry Focus: Advanced energy, chemistry, materials, carbon capture, electrochemistry, industrial decarbonization
💡 Pro Tip: Bring the Science—and the Story
Cyclotron Road wants founders who are scientists with a startup vision. You’ll need a strong technical proposal, early validation data, and a clear path to commercialization. It’s highly competitive, but the upside—access to DOE labs, zero equity taken, and top-tier alumni outcomes—is unmatched.
16. Google for Startups Accelerator: Climate Change
For tech-enabled climate solutions, few programs offer the scale and technical muscle of Google for Startups Accelerator: Climate Change. This 10-week, equity-free virtual accelerator gives Seed to Series A founders access to Google engineers, AI/Cloud experts, and deep support from 20+ internal teams. From EV charging platforms to decarbonized cement, alumni are leveraging Google’s tools to tackle big climate problems at scale.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: Virtual (North America-based startups)
🧑💻 Program Type: 10-week remote accelerator with optional in-person summit
💸 Equity Taken: ❌ None
💰 Investment Offered: Up to $350K in Google Cloud credits + technical mentorship
⏳ Duration: 10 weeks
🚀 Stage: Seed to Series A
🌎 Industry Focus: Climate tech (energy, transport, food, materials, carbon, etc.); strong emphasis on AI/data/IOT-powered solutions
💡 Pro Tip: Bring the Tech Heat
This accelerator is built for technical founders. You’ll need a solid AI, cloud, or data-driven edge—and a clear case for how Google’s resources will scale your impact. A crisp technical roadmap and strong pitch on climate relevance will put you ahead of the pack.
17. For ClimateTech (Venture For ClimateTech)
For ClimateTech is a non-dilutive, part-time accelerator helping climate tech startups get early funding, traction, and access to New York’s climate innovation ecosystem. Run by NextCorps in partnership with SecondMuse and backed by NYSERDA, the program targets startups with bold decarbonization potential—especially in buildings, transportation, grid, and industry. It offers up to $50K in grant funding, expert mentorship, and a high-visibility Demo Day during Climate Week NYC.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: Rochester, NY (admin HQ) + Virtual (with NYC event components)
🧑💻 Program Type: 5–6 month part-time virtual accelerator with live showcase
💸 Equity Taken: ❌ None
💰 Investment Offered: Up to $50K non-dilutive grant per startup
⏳ Duration: ~5–6 months
🚀 Stage: Idea to pre-seed (early validation, TRL 3–6 ideal)
🌎 Industry Focus: Climate tech (buildings, energy, transport, materials, carbon, circular economy) aligned with NY State decarbonization goals
💡 Pro Tip: Climate Mission Meets Market Fit
For ClimateTech wants startups with serious decarbonization potential and strong alignment with New York State’s climate goals. To stand out, quantify your climate impact, showcase early traction (even letters of intent or prototypes), and explain how your solution fits NY’s policy, utility, or infrastructure landscape. This is a grant-powered runway with no strings—use it wisely.
18. Cleantech Open
If you’re a climate tech founder looking for hands-on guidance and a national stage to showcase your solution, Cleantech Open (CTO) is a top-tier launchpad. Since 2005, this program has trained over 4,000 entrepreneurs from 2,100+ startups, helping shape some of the most recognizable clean tech brands. As the world’s largest clean tech accelerator, CTO blends regional support with a national platform—culminating in its Global Forum in Silicon Valley.
🔹 Program Snapshot
📍 Location: National (regional hubs + Global Forum in Silicon Valley)
🧑💻 Program Type: In-person/Hybrid; 6–12 month accelerator + pitch competition
💸 Equity Taken: ❌ None
💰 Investment Offered: ❌ No direct investment (prizes only)
💳 Participation Fee: ✅ ~$2,500 (covers coaching and resources)
⏳ Duration: ~1 year cycle
🚀 Stage: Pre-seed to Series A (stage-agnostic)
🌱 Industry Focus: Clean energy, water, agtech, carbon, buildings, transportation, and circular economy💡 Pro Tip: Go Early, Go Local, Go All-In
Cleantech Open is best for early-stage founders looking to validate their ideas, sharpen their pitch, and plug into a national clean tech network. Apply early, pick your regional cohort wisely, and lean into mentorship—it’s the path to the Global Forum and serious visibility.
Final Thoughts
From equity-free fellowships to deep-tech lab access and corporate pilot opportunities, these accelerators are shaping the future of climate innovation. Whether you’re just spinning out of a lab or scaling your first deployment, the right program can provide the funding, mentorship, and momentum you need. Explore your options—and apply with purpose. The planet can’t wait.
