[New Program] GridReady: Connecting energy startups to pilot opportunities with Minnesota's leading utilities. Learn more and apply by June 26 →
A structured pathway to utility pilot partnerships
GridReady connects promising energy startups to pilot opportunities with Minnesota’s leading utilities, accelerating the adoption of technologies that keep energy reliable and affordable for all Minnesotans.
Startup applications close June 26.
Questions? Join one of our GridReady informational sessions.
Our utility partners:
Minnesota’s leading power utilities are actively seeking new technologies to modernize the grid, keep energy reliable and affordable for their customers, and deliver on the state’s commitment to 100% clean energy by 2040.
GridReady bridges the gap between promising energy startups and utilities that are serious about deploying innovative solutions. Through a structured, supported process, we identify the most promising technologies, connect them with the right utility partners, and provide hands-on support through project mobilization to ensure pilots lead to real growth opportunities.
This is not a pitch competition. It is a pathway to a pilot opportunity with a committed utility partner.
What GridReady Offers Startups
Access to utility pilot opportunities
Our utility partners are genuinely committed to moving from exploration to installation. If a utility team selects a startup for pilot exploration, they will offer guidance, access, and opportunity – leading to a tangible pilot implementation.
A structured path to demonstration
Startups often spend months – sometimes years – navigating utility procurement on their own. For program finalists, Grid Catalyst is here for every step of partner matchmaking and building a practical pilot scope of work for startups selected by a utility partner. We stay involved through pilot mobilization, helping you build the relationships and track record that open doors to new customers and partners.
Grant support for finalists
Each startup selected as a finalist will receive a minimum $3,000 grant to support their participation in pilot development and travel to the September Technology Showcase in Minnesota. This grant is made possible through a partnership with Evergreen Climate Innovations and the Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator (IN2) Strategic Partner Award.
What Our Utility Partners Are Looking For
Our utility partners are actively seeking solutions in the following technology areas:
Grid Modernization and Grid-Enhancing Technologies
Solutions that help utilities manage load, integrate variable renewable energy, and improve reliability, while avoiding costly infrastructure buildout.
Energy Storage
Storage systems that balance supply and demand, support renewable integration, and provide backup power when utilities need it most.
Electrification
Technologies that accelerate the shift to electric across buildings and industry, helping utilities manage growing and changing load.
We are targeting technologies at a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 7 or higher that have been validated in a relevant environment and are ready for a real-world pilot.
Applications for technologies currently at TRL 6 may be considered if the technology will be at TRL 7 by December 1, 2026.
Is GridReady Right for Your Startup?
For more detailed information on TRL levels, technological priorities, and additional selection criteria, download the full Startup Applicant Guide.
From Application to Pilot – How the Program Works
Built on a Proven Accelerator Model
GridReady is a new, utility-focused program that builds upon Grid Catalyst’s nationally-recognized Demonstration Cohort model. Since 2021, the Demonstration Cohort program has:
Mobilized 16 emerging technology pilots across Minnesota
Catalyzed over $45M in follow-on funding for alumni startups
Built a statewide partner network across industries and institutions
“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."
FAQs
Does my startup have to be based in Minnesota?
No. We welcome applications from startups across the country. Pilot projects will take place in Minnesota, and startups must be legally able to do business in the state.
What TRL level should my technology be at?
We are targeting technologies at TRL 7+. This means technologies have been validated in a relevant environment and are ready for a real-world pilot, but not yet widely commercially deployed with utility customers. Applications for technologies currently at TRL 6 may be considered if the technology will be at TRL 7 by December 1, 2026.
Refer to the GridReady Guide for Startup Applicants for a detailed description of each TRL.
Is there a fee to apply or participate?
No. There is no fee to apply or participate. Each startup selected as a finalist will receive a minimum $3,000 grant to support their participation in pilot development and travel to the September Technology Showcase pitch event in Minnesota.
This grant is made possible through a partnership with Evergreen Climate Innovations and the Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator (IN2) Strategic Partner Award.
How long does the application take?
Assuming you have basic information about your technology, company, and team prepared, the application should take two hours or less to complete. Key components to prepare for the application:
- 1-2 page executive summary of the company and technology
- Pitch deck
- Summary of the team and key personnel to execute the pilot project, if selected (less than 1 page)
How many finalists will be selected?
We anticipate selecting up to 10 finalists to participate in the Technology Showcase in September.
Are startup finalists guaranteed a pilot?
Only startups selected by a utility partner following the Technology Showcase will proceed with exploring and potentially developing a pilot project. Utilities are not obligated to proceed with a pilot if the technology, budget, scope, or timeline do not align. However, utilities participating in this program have made a serious commitment to exploring pilot opportunities and have committed to investing in pilots for technologies they select.
What does Grid Catalyst's role look like after the pitch event?
Grid Catalyst stays involved through pilot mobilization — facilitating communication between startups and utilities, supporting scoping discussions, helping both sides navigate any barriers that come up, and leveraging the pilot to create new business opportunities. We do not hand you off after the matchmaking.
Ready to Apply?
Applications are open through June 26, 2026.
Questions? Contact us at info@gridcatalyst.org or join one of our GridReady informational sessions.
Thank You to Our Program Partners
GridReady would not be possible without the vision and leadership of our anchor utility partners: Great River Energy, Minnesota Power, Xcel Energy, and Otter Tail Power Company. Their commitment to exploring new technologies and investing in Minnesota’s energy future is foundational to this program.
This program is also made possible through the support and partnership of the Minnesota Energy Alley initiative, funded by the Minnesota Department of Commerce and led by Clean Energy Economy Minnesota.
Additional startup support comes from a strategic award from the Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator (IN2) and a partnership with Evergreen Climate Innovations.
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