Deadline: August 1, 2026
Applications are invited for the New York Climate Exchange Climate Tech Fellowship 2026. 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.
Benefits
Each fellow gains access to a curated set of resources designed to accelerate their path from promising concept to viable venture:
- $10,000 non-dilutive stipend (per team)
- 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. Travel and accommodation for one team member will be covered
- Introductions to investors, policymakers, and strategic partners through The Exchange’s global network
Eligibility
The Fellowship is designed for early-stage innovators — researchers, scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs — who are working on energy technologies with meaningful urban resilience potential. You are a strong fit if:
- Your work addresses Energy & Urban Resilience
- You are at the prototype, early pilot, or early commercialization stage
- You are looking for more than grant funding (i.e., you want structured support with commercialization strategy, customer discovery, and venture building)
- You can commit several hours per week to the program over six months from September 2026-February 2027
University or institutional affiliation is not required. The Fellowship is open to innovators globally. Incorporation is not required. The program is specifically designed for innovators at the pre-company formation to pre-seed stage. They particularly encourage applications from founders from underrepresented backgrounds.
Application
Innovators interested should complete the online form, and provide details on the innovation, goals for the Fellowship, and team. They will review applications on a rolling basis, so apply early.
For more information, visit Climate Tech Fellowship.
