Applications are now open for the 2026 Cleantech Open Northeast Accelerator — a nationally recognized program designed to help early-stage cleantech ventures grow into scalable, investment-ready companies.
Led by Cleantech Open Northeast in partnership with The Alliance for Climate Transition (formerly NECEC), the program offers a structured, 12-week accelerator experience combining mentorship, hands-on training, and access to a broad network of investors, corporate partners, and industry experts.
For Rhode Island-based teams, the Slater Technology Fund will cover application and participation fees (up to a $2,600 value) for startups accepted into the program that successfully complete it through Demo Day.
Slater has supported dozens of Rhode Island teams through Cleantech Open since 2019, including companies such as Flux Marine and Adept Materials. Across the broader network, Cleantech Open alumni have collectively raised more than $3B in follow-on funding.
Why Apply?
Cleantech Open provides a comprehensive set of resources to support early-stage ventures, including:
- World-class mentoring: Tailored guidance from experienced operators and access to a global cleantech network
- Hands-on training: A 12-week series of workshops, boot camps, and webinars focused on commercialization and growth
- Visibility: Opportunities to showcase your company to investors, partners, and customers
- Prizes: Cash and in-kind awards at regional and national levels (may include grant or investment funding)
- Network access: Connections to a national ecosystem of entrepreneurs, corporates, and climate leaders
- Ongoing alumni support: Continued access to investors, partners, and programming beyond the accelerator
Cleantech is broadly defined, spanning areas such as energy, sustainable materials, climate-focused software, and environmental solutions, making the program relevant to startups, researchers, and student-led teams alike.
Key Details:
- Cost: Free for RI-based teams (fees covered by Slater upon completion)
- Application Deadline: April 6 (1:59 PM PST)
- Info Session (Providence): March 19 at 1:00 PM (CIC Providence)
- Additional virtual sessions may be available
To access fee support, teams are encouraged to connect briefly with Bob Chatham (Slater Technology Fund) to discuss fit and receive guidance ahead of applying: bob@slaterfund.com
👉 Learn more and apply: https://slaterfund.com/2026-cleantech-open-northeast/
👉 Register for the Providence kickoff: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-cleantech-open-northeast-providence-kickoff-party-tickets-1982781071560