Climate Tech Fellowship 2026 in USA | Fully Funded

The Climate Tech Fellowship is a six-month hybrid program designed to support early-stage innovators at the intersection of energy and urban resilience. Fellows receive expert-led curriculum, 1:1 mentorship, non-dilutive funding, and access to The Exchange’s global partner ecosystem, helping them move from concept to commercially viable climate solutions.

The New York Climate Exchange created the Climate Tech Fellowship to bridge the gap between research and real-world deployment. Supported by NYSERDA and partners like First Matter, Foley Hoag, the Alda Center, and Hazelwood Network, the program helps promising innovators take the next critical step from concept to a commercially viable climate solution.

Climate Tech Fellowship Benefits

• $10,000 non-dilutive stipend (per team)
• Structured go-to-market curriculum covering market mapping, customer segmentation, target markets, channels, and commercialization strategy — taught by expert instructors
• Expert sessions on fundraising, IP strategy, communications, and climate equity
• Dedicated 1:1 mentorship sessions, matched to specific focus area and stage of development
• A personalized Fellowship blueprint and tailored roadmap with monthly check-ins to track progress
• 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
• Introductions to investors, policymakers, and strategic partners through The Exchange’s global network

Climate Tech Fellowship Eligibility Criteria

• Your work addresses Energy & Urban Resilience
• You are at the prototype, early pilot, or early commercialization stage
• You are looking for more than grant funding (i.e., you want structured support with commercialization strategy, customer discovery, and venture building)
• 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

 Required Documents

• Details about the innovation or technology.  
• Information about the applicant or team.  
• Goals for joining the fellowship.  
• Completed online application form.  

Focus Areas 

The New York Climate Exchange Climate Tech Fellowship focuses on innovative technologies that strengthen energy systems and improve urban resilience. The eligible focus areas include: 

• End-use Energy Innovation  
• Power Generation and Storage  
• Grid Modernization  
• Natural Carbon Solutions  
• Intelligent Buildings  
• Green Infrastructure  
• Distributed Energy Systems  
• Cross-cutting innovations related to Energy and Urban Resilience  

How to Apply for Climate Tech Fellowship

• Submit your Application for the 2026 Climate Tech Fellowship via the online form
• Provide details on the innovation, goals for the Fellowship, and team
• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so apply early
• Review the detailed FAQ and the Evaluation Criteria to learn more
• Join office hour sessions via Calendly, or reach out to Megha Mehdiratta at [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Climate Tech Fellowship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.