The Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI) provides a comprehensive suite of startup programs designed to accelerate the commercialization of clean technologies and foster an inclusive green economy. Based at the La Kretz Innovation Campus, LACI serves as a central hub for entrepreneurs working on high-impact solutions in zero-emissions transportation, clean energy, and sustainable cities. By offering tiered support systems—ranging from pre-seed to seed market entry—the organization provides founders with the specialized resources, pilot opportunities, and capital access necessary to scale environmental solutions within the Southern California ecosystem and beyond.
Flagship Incubation Program
- Program Duration: A two-year commitment designed for early-stage cleantech startups.
- Core Curriculum: Includes a six-month intensive business and technical curriculum to build a foundation for scale.
- Technical Readiness: Targeted at companies with a functional prototype, generally classified as Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 or higher.
- Equity Terms: Participation typically involves a 1.5% to 3% equity stake in the form of a warrant, which includes earn-back provisions based on milestone achievement.
- Executive Coaching: Founders receive dedicated one-on-one sessions with Executives-in-Residence (EIRs) and specialized mentors.
- Resource Access: Participants gain access to over $160,000 in digital and professional perks, including cloud credits and legal services.
Market Access Program
- Strategic Focus: An 18-month program specifically for growth-stage startups (Series A or beyond) looking to deploy large-scale pilots.
- Pilot Opportunities: Provides a structured pathway to secure pilot funding ranging from $50,000 to $150,000.
- Deployment Support: Assistance in navigating the Los Angeles regulatory and procurement landscape to test and validate technologies in real-world settings.
- Corporate Connections: Facilitates introductions to major utility providers, municipal agencies, and corporate partners for strategic contracts.
Founders Business Accelerator (FBA)
- Program Goal: A six-month initiative aimed at micro-enterprises and small businesses within the City of Los Angeles.
- Impact Focus: Designed to help local founders increase their environmental impact while strengthening their business operations and community presence.
- Support Services: Offers business development training, technical assistance, and networking opportunities within the local green economy.
- Community Alignment: Focuses on businesses that contribute to the social and economic health of their specific neighborhoods.
Innovators Program
- Early-Stage Support: A one-year "light-touch" program intended for pre-seed and pre-prototype ventures.
- Ecosystem Integration: Provides founders with a structured entry point into the LACI network and the broader Southern California cleantech community.
- Educational Access: Includes participation in foundational workshops and networking events to help refine business concepts before full-scale incubation.
Funding and Capital Access
- LACI Impact Fund: Eligible startups may receive equity investments to support their growth rounds.
- Cleantech Debt Fund: Provides access to specialized debt financing options specifically designed for the unique capital needs of hardware and deep-tech companies.
- Pilot Funding: Competitive access to non-dilutive grants intended for technology demonstration and validation projects.
- Investor Network: Direct exposure to a curated group of venture capitalists, impact investors, and family offices focused on sustainability.
Priority Innovation Sectors
- Zero-Emissions Transportation: Focused on EV infrastructure, micro-mobility, freight electrification, and urban air mobility.
- Clean Energy: Including grid modernization, energy storage, renewables, and building decarbonization.
- Smart and Sustainable Cities: Targeting the circular economy, waste management, water innovation, and sustainable materials.
Application and Selection Process
- Cohort Cycle: LACI typically accepts applications for its flagship programs through structured cohort calls; Cohort 12 applications are active from December 2025 through January 16, 2026.
- Selection Criteria: Startups are evaluated based on their potential for greenhouse gas reduction, commitment to diversity and inclusion, and the scalability of their business model.
- Information Sessions: Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend virtual recruitment events to understand specific program requirements and benefits.
The LACI Startup Programs represent a robust infrastructure for cleantech innovation, offering tailored support for every stage of the entrepreneurial journey. By combining physical laboratory space with strategic financial instruments and market access initiatives, LACI enables founders to move from concept to commercial deployment more efficiently. This multi-tiered approach ensures that both high-growth tech ventures and local small businesses can contribute to a sustainable and equitable future. Founders seeking to validate their technology in one of the world's most dynamic urban markets are encouraged to review the specific eligibility tracks and submit their materials during the open application windows.