The New York Climate Exchange Climate Tech Fellowship 2026 was built to solve exactly that. It is a six-month, fully funded pre-accelerator program for researchers, engineers, scientists, and founders working on real climate technologies. You get money, mentorship, and a seat at the table with some of the world's top climate investors, all without giving up a single percent of your company. This is not a classroom program. It is a hands-on experience designed to take your idea from concept to commercial reality. What Makes It Different From Other Programs? You keep full ownership of your technology while receiving real financial support. Most programs require you to have a registered company. You can apply even if you have not formed a legal entity yet. It is also backed by NYSERDA, a serious government body funding clean energy innovation across New York State. That gives this fellowship real credibility and long-term network value.

Key Details: New York Climate Exchange Climate Tech Fellowship 2026

• Program Name: New York Climate Exchange Climate Tech Fellowship 2026

• Organizer: The New York Climate Exchange

• Supported By: New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA)

• Program Type: Six-month hybrid pre-accelerator fellowship

• Program Duration: September 2026 to February 2027

• Location: Hybrid — remote sessions plus in-person activities in New York City

• Open To: Innovators from all countries worldwide

• Stipend: USD $10,000 per team

• Application Deadline: August 1, 2026,

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Financial Benefits

The fellowship removes every financial barrier between you and your climate work. Here is exactly what selected teams receive:

• USD $10,000 non-dilutive stipend per team

• Fully covered travel to New York City for one team member during Climate Week NYC in September 2026 : flights, accommodation, and meals included

• 100% free participation

• Access to a global investor network

• Expert legal guidance on intellectual property and company formation from the Energy and Climate team at Foley Hoag

• Fundraising and climate equity training delivered by Hazelwood Network

Target Project of Fellowship

The 2026 fellowship specifically focuses on the intersection of energy and urban resilience. Your project should fit into at least one of these areas:

• End-Use Energy Innovation: building efficiency, industrial decarbonization, smart thermal systems

• Power Generation and Storage: advanced solar, wind, geothermal, and next-generation battery technologies

• Grid Modernization: software and hardware for transmission efficiency, microgrids, and demand response systems

• Natural Carbon Solutions: technology-enabled ecosystem restoration, soil carbon enhancement, and environmental monitoring tools

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Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply

The fellowship is designed for early-stage innovators who have a real solution but need support to move it forward. Here is who qualifies:

• Open to researchers, scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and founders from every country in the world

• Your project must be in the prototype, early pilot, research, or early commercialization stage

• No registered company required; pre-company formation applicants are fully welcome

• No university or institutional affiliation required

• Both individuals and teams can apply

• You must be able to commit several hours each week for the full six-month duration

• You must be available for in-person participation during Climate Week NYC in September 2026

• Applications from innovators from underrepresented backgrounds are strongly encouraged

Required Application Materials

What to Prepare Before You Apply

The application is done through an online form. Make sure you have the following ready before you start:

• Project description: a clear explanation of your climate innovation, what problem it solves, and why it matters

• Technology breakdown: A technical summary of how your solution works and what stage it is currently at

• Goals for the fellowship: Explain specifically what you hope to achieve during the six months

• Team information: Details about yourself and any team members, including background and relevant experience

• Short video introduction: A brief video from you and your core team members introducing yourselves and your project

• Stage of development: Clearly state whether you are at concept, prototype, early pilot, or commercialization stage

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How to Apply — Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Visit the official website.
Go to the website and read the full program details carefully before starting your application.

Step 2: Confirm your project fits the focus areas.
Make sure your work is related to energy and urban resilience. Review the four target themes listed above and identify where your solution fits.

Step 3: Prepare your materials in advance.
Write your project description, prepare your team details, and record your short video introduction before opening the application form. Being prepared saves time and reduces errors.

Step 4: Complete the online application form.
Fill in all required sections: your innovation details, fellowship goals, and team information. Be specific and clear. Reviewers assess dozens of applications, and specific answers stand out.

Step 5: Submit before August 1, 2026.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. This means earlier submissions get reviewed sooner. Do not wait until the last day. Aim to submit at least two weeks before the deadline.

Step 6: Prepare for a virtual interview.
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a virtual interview. Be ready to discuss your technology, your commercialization thinking, and your goals for the fellowship in detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be based in the USA to apply?

No. The fellowship is open to innovators from every country. You only need to travel to New York City for Climate Week in September 2026; travel costs are fully covered for one team member.

Can I apply as an individual without a team?

Yes. Both individuals and teams are eligible to apply. You do not need co-founders to participate.

Is there an application fee?

No. The program is completely free to apply for and free to participate in.

Do I need to give up equity?

No. The USD $10,000 stipend is fully non-dilutive. You keep 100% ownership of your technology and company.

Apply on the official website link provided below