About the opportunity
The Climate Tech Fellowship is a six-month hybrid program that combines expert-led curriculum, 1:1 mentorship, non-dilutive funding, and access to The Exchange’s global partner ecosystem. Fellows leave with a clearer commercialization roadmap, stronger fundraising readiness, and a network of mentors, peers, and potential investors. Building on a successful inaugural cohort in 2025, the 2026 Fellowship, supported by NYSERDA, is dedicated to a specific and urgent theme at the intersection of Energy & Urban Resilience. The program helps early-stage innovators bridge the first valley of death, taking the next critical step from concept to a commercially viable climate solution.
Funding and benefits
- $10,000 non-dilutive stipend (per team)
- Travel and accommodation covered for one team member during Climate Week NYC in September
- Structured go-to-market curriculum covering market mapping, customer segmentation, target markets, channels, and commercialization strategy taught by expert instructors
- Expert sessions on fundraising, IP strategy, communications, and climate equity
- Dedicated 1:1 mentorship sessions matched to specific focus area and stage of development
- A personalized Fellowship blueprint and tailored roadmap with monthly check-ins to track progress
- In-person programming during Climate Week NYC in September, including a showcase for investors and partners
- Introductions to investors, policymakers, and strategic partners through The Exchange's global network
Who can apply?
- Work addresses Energy & Urban Resilience, focusing on areas such as end-use energy innovation, power generation & storage, grid modernization, or natural carbon solutions
- At the prototype, early pilot, or early commercialization stage (pre-company formation to pre-seed stage)
- Looking for structured support with commercialization strategy, customer discovery, and venture building
- Able to commit several hours per week to the program over six months from September 2026 to February 2027
- Open to innovators globally; university or institutional affiliation is not required
- Incorporation is not required
Required documents
- Details on the innovation
- Goals for the Fellowship
- Team information
When to apply
- Applications opened on Monday, June 15, 2026
- Application deadline was Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 11:59 PM
- Applications were reviewed on a rolling basis
How to apply
- Complete the online application form via Airtable with details on your innovation, goals, and team
- Participate in virtual office hour sessions via Calendly or reach out to program contacts for questions if needed
- Shortlisted candidates undergo virtual interviews before final offers are made
Additional information
- The program anticipates selecting between 5 and 10 teams for the cohort
- The fellowship is free to selected fellows with no application fee
- Each team receives one $10,000 stipend regardless of team size, and travel/accommodation support for Climate Week NYC applies to one team member per team
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Early-stage innovators (pre-company to pre-seed) working on energy, grid modernization, or natural carbon solutions.
- Teams seeking non-dilutive funding and a structured commercialization roadmap.
- Innovators who can commit several hours per week and attend in-person events in New York City.
What should you think carefully about?
- The program requires a commitment of several hours per week over six months.
- One team member must be able to travel to New York City for Climate Week in September.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This fellowship is designed for innovators looking to move from a prototype or early pilot to a commercially viable solution. It is a high-impact, six-month sprint to refine a go-to-market strategy and prepare for fundraising.
Our take
Early-stage climate tech teams focusing on energy and urban resilience should apply, while those beyond the pre-seed stage or outside this specific theme may find it less suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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