EnergyLab's Climate Solutions Accelerator is a flagship program designed for ambitious climate tech founders with solutions ready to be deployed at scale. Open to startups at all stages, the accelerator supports entrepreneurs developing technologies across a wide spectrum, including alternative proteins, carbon sequestration, and renewable energy. The program aims to provide startups with the necessary support to reach their full potential by connecting them with investors, mentors, and an extensive network in Australia and overseas.
Program Benefits and Support
• Investment: Participants are offered an investment of approximately A$80,000-A$100,000 at their latest post-money valuation.
• Investor Introductions: The program facilitates introductions to Australia's most active climate tech and energy sector investors.
• Mentorship Network: Startups gain exposure to an extensive network of over 300 mentors from energy companies, government departments, investment institutions, and successful startups.
• Leadership Guidance: Founders receive direct access to EnergyLab's Chair and CEO for advice and introductions throughout their business journey.
• Professional Services: Participants receive legal and accounting assistance from FCW Lawyers and KPMG at no cost during the program.
• Guided Learning: The curriculum includes a series of sprints focused on key growth areas such as international expansion, capital raising, and securing industry partnerships.
• Innovation Partner Access: Opportunities are provided to meet with representatives from partner organizations to explore collaboration and deployment of low-carbon solutions.
Program Structure and Modules
The accelerator is structured around five key modules spread throughout the program schedule.
• Kick-off (3 - 14 August 2026): Introductions to the cohort, investors, alumni, and the wider EnergyLab community.
• Sales & Partnerships (7 - 18 September 2026): Focuses on introductions to industry partners and workshops on securing partnerships with large corporations and utilities.
• International Expansion (5 - 16 October 2026): Features workshops on overseas expansion strategy and introductions to contacts who can assist with growth plans.
• Capital Raising (9 - 20 November 2026): Provides training and feedback on pitching, followed by introductions to active investors.
• Graduation (7 - 11 December 2026): Concludes with wrap-up events, including a public showcase to highlight achievements and raise the profiles of participating startups.
Application Process and Key Dates
• 2026 Intake Schedule:
- Applications Open: 12 January - 15 March 2026
- First Round Interviews: 6 - 24 April 2026
- Selection Pitch: 25 - 29 May 2026
- Program Duration: 3 August - 11 December 2026
• Application Steps:
- Stage 1: Complete an online application form.
- Stage 2: Successful applicants meet the EnergyLab team for a 20-minute online interview.
- Stage 3: Finalists are invited to pitch to the accelerator fund investors, who vote on cohort selection.
Founder and Startup Selection Criteria
• Fast Growth: The business must be ready for rapid growth, with a solution prepared for deployment and founders ready to work on the venture full-time.
• Climate Impact: The product or service must contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, address the impacts of climate change, or enable others to do so. This includes solutions in renewable energy, sustainable transport, and carbon sequestration.
• Coachability: Founders should be seeking to expand their network, be open to having their ideas challenged, and be willing to learn from their peers.
Participation Cost and Investment Terms
• Program Cost: The program is offered free of charge to selected startups.
• Investment Condition: Participation is contingent on accepting an investment offer from EnergyLab's angel group.
• Valuation: The investment is made at the post-money valuation of the startup's last priced funding round. If no priced round has been raised, the investment is made at a pre-money valuation of A$1,000,000.
The Climate Solutions Accelerator offers a comprehensive platform for climate tech startups poised for significant growth. By combining strategic investment with unparalleled access to a network of mentors, investors, and industry partners, the program equips founders with the resources needed to scale their solutions and make a tangible impact on climate change. Interested parties are encouraged to review the application timelines and criteria for upcoming cohorts.