Supporting Early-Stage Innovators at the Intersection of Energy & Urban Resilience
Applications Now OPEN
Deadline: Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 11:59PM
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis
About the Fellowship
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. Read the Press Release here.
Why the Fellowship Exists
Many of the most promising early-stage climate solutions never make it out of the lab. Without access to the right support — mentorship, funding, market strategy, and ecosystem connections — innovators face an early “valley of death” that prevents their concepts from becoming deployable, impactful solutions. The New York Climate Exchange created the Climate Tech Fellowship to change that. By bridging the gap between research and real-world deployment, we help promising innovators take the next critical step from concept to a commercially viable climate solution.
What Fellows Receive
Each fellow gains access to a curated set of resources designed to accelerate their path from promising concept to viable venture:
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$10,000 non-dilutive stipend (per team)
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Structured go-to-market curriculum covering market mapping, customer segmentation, target markets, channels, and commercialization strategy — taught by expert instructors
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Expert sessions on fundraising, IP strategy, communications, and climate equity
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Dedicated 1:1 mentorship sessions, matched to specific focus area and stage of development
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A personalized Fellowship blueprint and tailored roadmap with monthly check-ins to track progress
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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
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Introductions to investors, policymakers, and strategic partners through The Exchange’s global network
Who Should Apply?
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:
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Your work addresses Energy & Urban Resilience
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You are at the prototype, early pilot, or early commercialization stage
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You are looking for more than grant funding (i.e., you want structured support with commercialization strategy, customer discovery, and venture building)
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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. We particularly encourage applications from founders from underrepresented backgrounds.
Key Dates
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Program Onboarding: September 2026
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Climate Week NYC (In Person Participation): September 2026
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Virtual Programming (including Go-to-Market modules, and 1:1 Mentor Sessions): October 2026 – January 2027
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Culminating Virtual Showcase and Wrap Up: February 2027
How to Apply
Submit your Application for the 2026 Climate Tech Fellowship. The application is free and open to innovators globally.
Innovators interested should complete the Online Form, and provide details on the innovation, goals for the Fellowship, and team. We will review applications on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to apply early.
Review the detailed FAQ and the Evaluation Criteria to learn more.
Join our office hour sessions via Calendly, or reach out to Megha Mehdiratta at mmehdiratta@nyclimateexchange.org.
Apply Here