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Demo To Deploy
Our Demonstration Cohort program helps innovative energy startups pilot new technologies with strategic partners in Minnesota, build connections with new customers and investors, and accelerate their path to market.
Applications for our 2026 cycle are closed. Subscribe for future program updates.
How the program works
Develop strategic pilot partnerships
We connect promising energy startups with our Minnesota-based Innovators Network of utilities, Fortune 500 companies, local and state agencies, and other industry partners eager to test cutting-edge technologies to meet their energy goals.
Get project funding and expert support
Cohort members get access to project funding via the Minnesota Energy Alley initiative and hands-on support throughout the pilot process. From matchmaking to scoping to implementation, our team works diligently to ensure that both sides’ goals and expectations are met.
Establish market credibility
Our alumni gain real-world validation, proven partnerships, and the credibility needed to attract new customers and investors. In three years of operation, the Demonstration Cohort program has catalyzed over $21 million in follow-on funding for our alumni.
“We've been through a lot of cohort programs and this one is special. As an early-stage startup looking to partner with a large corporation, that is a tough relationship to navigate. Having Grid Catalyst facilitate and manage expectations throughout the entire process is an incredibly valuable resource that we have not seen in other programs."
2026 Cohort Timeline
Application Opens Information Sessions
Applications Due July 24
Application Review Finalist Selection
Pitch To Innovators Network
Matchmaking Begins MN Energy Innovation Summit October 13
Matchmaking
Project Scoping and Mobilization
We evaluate applications based on:
Innovation
How unique is your value proposition and how does your product or service compare to other market offerings?
Viability
We are seeking technologies that have been vetted and tested through research and development to meet technical and commercial viability expectations for the program.
Impact
What potential impact will your solution have in addressing carbon and climate change, creating a more equitable and just energy system, and bolstering the local community?
Cold Weather Testing
We prioritize technologies that can benefit from the rigor of operating in Minnesota's four seasons, including frigid winters. Or have a unique solution that addresses a cold-weather operational challenge.
Representation
Recognizing that innovation comes from new ideas and perspectives, we aim to create a mix startups that represent a wide range of backgrounds and experiences on their leadership teams.
Matchmaking
Our partners in the Innovators Network make the ultimate selection for the cohort. Following the finalist pitch event, they will select startups they are interested in developing 2026 pilot projects with.
How project funding works
Cohort startups will have the option to receive seed funding via the Minnesota Energy Alley initiative to enable their demonstration project. In exchange for funding, startups are asked to sign a SAFE or convertible note (maximum of $100,000). Pilots may exceed $100,000, with additional grant funds and pilot host cost-share expected for most projects. If pilot funding is not needed, cohort members will grant Grid Catalyst Future Funding Participation Agreements.
We are committed to transparency and fairness throughout this process, intending to advance your business and innovation while providing a revolving resource for future cohorts.
FAQs
Is my startup qualified for this program?
To qualify to join the Demonstration Cohort, startups must:
- Have a solution that can be implemented in a demonstration project in 2026.
- Be able to legally demonstrate and manage a project in Minnesota.
- Have necessary patents or patent plans in place (if applicable).
- Have a product prototype that can function in a pilot (technological readiness level of 6 or above). If your current prototype is for testing purposes only, please consider applying to a future cycle.
- The organization has fewer than 100 employees and was incorporated within the last 10 years.
Does my startup have to be headquartered or doing business in Minnesota?
No, while projects must be located in Minnesota, we accept companies from outside the state every year. Preference may be given to Minnesota-based companies. Companies must be legally eligible to do business in Minnesota, including necessary licensure and permitting requirements.
How many startups do you accept into each Demonstration Cohort?
We select up to 10 finalists each year and typically match 4-6 startups for projects each cycle.
Does my startup have to be incorporated to participate?
Yes. Demonstration cohorts require incorporation. Future programming may allow for earlier-stage ventures.
Are service-based companies eligible to apply?
Yes, services must be an innovative solution that is new-to-market and would benefit specifically from our program structure.
How developed must my solution be to participate in the cohort?
If the solution is a product or technology (rather than a service), the working prototype must be ready for a “commercial” application. We do not accept prototypes only developed for lab testing and that aren’t designed or prepared for an integrated pilot application. Future cohorts will consider earlier-stage ventures. The company is not required to have an existing demonstration or commercial project.
Are certain types of technologies of greater interest?
Any emerging technology that makes our energy systems more efficient, reliable, affordable, and/or sustainable is eligible. Our team will consider the impact and viability of certain categories, particularly those with longer development cycles and permitting and regulatory requirements.
High-potential technology categories include:
- Grid advancement and adaptation
- Renewable thermal
- Building electrification
- EV charging
- Energy efficiency
- Small-scale batteries
- Controls and metering
Program partners
This program is made possible through the support and partnership of Minnesota Energy Alley, funded by the Minnesota Department of Commerce and led by Clean Energy Economy Minnesota. We are working together to drive innovation and secure the state’s energy and economic development future.
In addition, we are grateful to the dozens of partners in our Innovators Network, who lend their expertise, support, and facilities to enable these demonstration projects.
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