Spark Cleantech Accelerator Program 2024

The Spark Cleantech Accelerator (CTA) is a 12-week in-person program at the UT Research Park in Knoxville, Tennessee, designed to support early-stage cleantech businesses and drive the commercialization of their technologies. Created in partnership with Evergreen Climate Innovations, the program aims to foster innovation in Tennessee, the Midwest, and the Southeast. This initiative aligns with the broader mission of supporting sustainable technological advancements and economic development in the region by focusing on emerging cleantech enterprises. The program targets early-stage cleantech entrepreneurs and companies, particularly those with applications from Tennessee, the Midwest, and beyond. Eligible businesses are those demonstrating a positive impact on energy efficiency, renewable energy generation, greenhouse gas emissions reduction, carbon capture, increased recycling/upcycling, and a circular economy. The program prioritizes companies with strong market potential, defensible intellectual property (issued or pending patents), and technologies that can address the challenges of Spark partners such as utilities, local governments, and manufacturing companies. It also focuses on software or hardware technologies, including intelligent connected devices and advanced materials processes, at a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 2-6, and applicants open to establishing a permanent business location in Tennessee. The Spark CTA provides a comprehensive suite of services, including $15,000 stipends to offset travel/living costs and support business/technical milestones, prototyping services through the University of Tennessee’s Center for Materials Processing, and one-on-one mentorship from experts in various fields like business, market analysis, IP/patent strategy, product design, engineering, and manufacturing. It also facilitates crucial connections with customers, investors, strategic partners, suppliers, universities, and national laboratories, along with training workshops. The program emphasizes partnership opportunities with key organizations such as the Tennessee Valley Authority, Oak Ridge National Lab, and the City of Knoxville. Expected outcomes include the successful commercialization of new cleantech innovations, the growth of early-stage cleantech businesses, and the creation of a vibrant cleantech ecosystem in Tennessee and surrounding regions. Measurable results would encompass the number of businesses supported, the development and deployment of new technologies, the securing of investments, and the establishment of new partnerships. The program's strategic priority is to accelerate the development and market entry of technologies that contribute to environmental sustainability and economic prosperity, operating on a theory of change that by providing targeted support, resources, and connections, early-stage cleantech companies can overcome barriers to commercialization and achieve significant impact.