Minnesota Energy Alley
Achieving innovative energy technology deployment through demonstration and partnership.
Minnesota Energy Alley follows the successful model for partnership and innovation established by Medical Alley, which is widely recognized as one of the most dynamic and successful medical technology clusters in the world. Energy and cleantech offer a similar opportunity for our region, building on Minnesota’s proven track record in business and forward-thinking policies to encourage energy innovation and deployment. Strengthening our business pathways now will help Minnesota claim our fair share of a multi-trillion-dollar opportunity in energy and cleantech.
Advancing the Clean Energy Economy in Minnesota
To achieve market growth and attract investment, we need to work across the spectrum of business development, from startups to globally competitive businesses. We need an onramp for new businesses and innovation, a go-to partner for international collaboration and trade, and continued efforts to build the skilled workforce necessary to meet the growing talent demands in this sector. CEEM is leading much of this work through its programming, with more information on program details available on the CEEM Minnesota Energy Alley website.
Programming for Entrepreneurs and Startups
The Minnesota Energy Alley funding through the State of Minnesota provided a critical resource to support entrepreneurs and startups developing solutions in Minnesota. CEEM hired Grid Catalyst to manage this entrepreneur-focused programming, including network-building and resources for early-stage innovators and demonstration opportunities for later-stage startups.
- Demonstration Cohorts: We will expand our existing demonstration cohort program to match startups with strategic partnerships and pilot projects in Minnesota, with projects receiving funding based on their strategic value and impact within the state. Learn more about the Demonstration Cohort program. The 2024 cohort was named in March. Applications for the 2025 cohort will open in June.
- Office hours: Are you an innovator, entrepreneur, or startup looking to build your idea or business? If you aren’t sure what to do next, let us help. The easiest way to connect is to schedule during our weekly office hours on Monday and Wednesday afternoons. Book here.
- Network building: Grid Catalyst hosts a monthly meetup to strengthen connections in energy and cleantech. This is an informal gathering for folks across sectors and interests who want to strengthen their connections and learn about opportunities and partnerships that can be created in energy, climate, cleantech, and sustainability. We welcome all backgrounds, including students or those in career transition who want to make more connections in these industries. Visit our events page for more information.
- Entrepreneur education and resources: Grid Catalyst is building a new suite of programming in partnership with entrepreneurial support organizations and professionals across the State of Minnesota, enabled by a grant through Launch Minnesota. Check out our Cleantech Innovation Pathways page for more information on upcoming programming. LaunchMN offers a wide range of resources to entrepreneurs and startups, including grants, mentorships, and a dynamic community calendar showcasing networking and education opportunities.
Together with our partners at the State of Minnesota and CEEM, we can put Minnesota in a competitive position to lead on energy and cleantech for years to come. If you are interested in supporting our efforts, please reach out to discuss opportunities to collaborate.
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