Governor’s Energy Office, E2Tech, and Maine Technology Institute encourage Maine companies to compete in nation’s largest program for cleantech innovation

March 9, 2023

Augusta, MAINE — The Governor’s Energy Office, in partnership with the Maine Technology Institute and E2Tech, are offering entrepreneurs and startup companies in Maine financial incentives and logistical support to compete in the nation’s largest “cleantech” startup accelerator program, the Cleantech Open.

The Cleantech Open seeks to find, fund, and foster entrepreneurs in cleantech – new services, software, or technology that reduces reliance on fossil fuels. Maine’s 10-year Economic Development Strategy and identifies cleantech as a growth opportunity for Maine that will help the state grow its innovation economy, meet climate and clean energy goals, and build Maine’s clean energy workforce.

“Events like the Cleantech Open showcase the extraordinary opportunities Maine’s entrepreneurs are creating to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels,” said Dan Burgess, Director of the Governor’s Energy Office.” We’re proud to partner with E2Tech and MTI to support clean energy startups and further establish Maine as a national leader in renewable energy and addressing climate change.”

 E2Tech is hosting an in-person networking event to learn more about the Cleantech Open on Wednesday, March 15 from 4:30 to 6:30p.m in Portland at Verrill Law Firm.

Attendees will learn how to apply, how to have expenses covered by a scholarship from MTI and may make a 60-second pitch to regional and national mentors and investors. Members of Maine’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, including investors, economic development directors, consultants and mentors are encouraged to attend to meet exciting startup companies.

“This program really works. Cleantech is fast-growing area of investment, which is poised to grow even faster with new incentives from the federal Inflation Reduction Act, but relatively few companies in Maine engage in this sector,” said Marty Grohman, Executive Director of E2Tech. “We’re seeking to change that by encouraging more Maine companies to get involved in the Cleantech Open.” 

 To learn more and RSVP, visit https://e2tech.org/cleantechopen

“Innovation is a driver of Maine’s economy, and accelerators like the Cleantech Open play a vital role in helping promising clean energy projects find commercial success,” said Brian Whitney, President of the Maine Technology Institute. “MTI is proud to help Maine companies engage in programs like this in partnership with organizations like E2Tech and the Governor’s Energy Office.”

Last year, one Maine startup – Prime Lightworks of Brunswick– was among the 40 entrants selected to participate in Cleantech Open Northeast. This year, the group hopes to identify five high potential cleantech startups from Maine to apply.

Applications for this year’s Cleantech Open program are being taken until 11:59 PM PST on April 16.