Venture Capital for Energy Startups: Trends, Opportunities, and Resources
The Energy sector is experiencing a global transformation, with startups leading the charge toward a cleaner, smarter, and more resilient future. From renewable energy and grid technologies to agtech and foodtech innovations, founders are tackling some of the world’s most urgent challenges—climate change, energy access, and sustainable food production. This surge in innovation is matched by a significant increase in venture capital investment.
For founders, this influx of capital brings both opportunity and competition. The right investor can help you scale your technology, navigate regulatory hurdles, and open doors to global markets. But the Energy sector also presents unique challenges—longer development cycles, complex supply chains, and evolving policy landscapes. Knowing which venture capital firms are actively investing in Energy, understanding current fundraising trends, and tapping into the right networks can make all the difference.
This guide is designed to help Energy startup founders around the world raise capital with confidence. You’ll find an up-to-date list of the top VC firms investing in Energy, actionable fundraising insights tailored to the sector, and a curated selection of accelerators, events, and resources to help you build connections and scale internationally.
Top 15 Venture Capital Firms Investing in Energy Startups (2025)
Congruent Ventures
Sweetspot check size: $ 1M
Traction metrics requirements: We don't require metrics pre-investing but we do require quarterly financial submission and an annual Climate Impact metric discussion / submission.
Thesis: Congruent Ventures is a leading early stage venture firm focused on partnering with entrepreneurs to build companies addressing climate and sustainability challenges across four themes: Mobility and Urbanization, the Energy Transition, Food and Agriculture, and Sustainable Production and Consumption.
Clean Energy Ventures
About: At Clean Energy Ventures we’re beating back climate change through energy innovation. We fund disruptive, capital-light technologies and business model innovations that can reshape how we produce and consume energy. Each startup we invest in has the potential to substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions between our investment and 2050.
SET Ventures
About: At SET Ventures we help Entrepreneurs build companies that Impact the global Energy System Transition. We leverage our Experience and Network to actively grow companies to generate Great Returns.
Sweetspot check size: $ 3M
Thesis: Digitial technologies for a carbon-free energy system
RenewableTech Ventures
About: RenewableTech Ventures is an early and growth stage venture fund investing in renewable energy, clean technology, energy conservation, green materials and other technologies.
Sweetspot check size: $ 2.50M
Thesis: We are an IRR-driven environmental impact fund on a mission to solve big problems and produce outsized returns. Using a cleantech investment lens, we look across sectors and industries to find the most groundbreaking innovations that will create both massive environmental impact and exceptional value for our shareholders.
Prelude Ventures
About: Prelude Ventures is a venture capital firm partnering with entrepreneurs to address climate change. Since 2013, we have invested in over 40 companies across advanced energy, food and agriculture, transportation and logistics, advanced materials and manufacturing, and advanced computing. We have a long-term commitment to the sector, accept informed risks, and couple a fundamental emphasis on venture-level returns with an understanding of deep-tech and hardware development timelines. Prelude manages capital exclusively for Simons family philanthropic entities and is a founding member of the Breakthrough Energy Coalition.
Thesis: We invest in the low-carbon economy.
Energy Impact Partners
About: Energy Impact Partners LP (EIP) is a global venture capital firm leading the transition to a sustainable future. EIP brings together entrepreneurs and the world’s most forward-looking energy and industrial companies to advance innovation. With over $2.5 billion in assets under management, EIP invests globally across venture, growth, credit, and infrastructure – and has a team of over 70 professionals based in its offices in New York, San Francisco, Palm Beach, London, Washington D.C., Cologne, and Oslo.
Thesis: We bring together incumbents and innovators in a differentiated collaborative model to build and scale businesses for substantial impact.
Breakthrough Energy Ventures
About: Breakthrough Energy is dedicated to helping humanity avoid a climate disaster. Through investment vehicles, philanthropic programs, policy advocacy, and other activities, we’re committed to scaling the technologies we need to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
Thesis: Breakthrough Energy Ventures provides reliable and affordable power without contributing to climate change.
Breakout Ventures
About: Breakout Ventures is an early stage fund that backs bold scientist entrepreneurs.
Thesis: Breakout Ventures backs bold companies working at the intersections of technology, biology, materials, and energy.
Factor[e] Ventures
About: We are a team of impact venture builders dedicated to supporting the people and ideas that turn challenges in energy, agriculture, mobility, and waste into de-carbonized solutions for emerging and frontier markets.
Sweetspot check size: $ 500K
Elemental Excelerator
About: Elemental Impact is a nonprofit investing platform with 15 years of experience advancing innovative technology that creates lasting economic and climate benefits across communities. Through our platform, we deploy catalytic capital and provide expert services to a portfolio of 160+ companies across energy, agriculture, transportation, industry, and nature-based solutions.
Emerald Technology Ventures
About: Emerald is a globally recognized venture capital firm founded in 2000, that manages and advises assets of over €1 billion from its offices in Zurich, Toronto and Singapore. The firm invests in start-ups that tackle big challenges in climate change and sustainability, with 4 current funds, hundreds of venture transactions and four third-party investment mandates, including loan guarantees to over 100 start-ups.
Chrysalix Venture Capital
About: Chrysalix Energy invests in and supports game changing clean technology companies that are helping to build the new energy economy. They invest in early to mid-stage companies with exceptional teams developing products and business models that change how they use natural resources to support sustainable economic activity, while minimizing environmental impacts.
Accelerators and Incubators for Energy Startups in 2025: A Global Guide
For energy founders, accelerators and incubators remain some of the most powerful launchpads for growth. These programs are more competitive and globally connected than ever, offering not just capital but also mentorship, pilot opportunities, and access to a deep network of industry leaders and investors.
Why Accelerators and Incubators Matter for Energy Startups
Unlike traditional funding routes, accelerators and incubators provide a structured environment where startups can rapidly validate their technology, refine their business model, and connect with key stakeholders. For energy startups—where technical risk, regulatory hurdles, and long sales cycles are common—these programs can be the difference between stalling out and scaling up.
Leading Global Energy Accelerators and Incubators
Some of the most impactful programs for energy startups in 2025 include:
- Elemental Excelerator (US/Asia-Pacific): Renowned for its hands-on approach, Elemental Excelerator offers funding, mentorship, and deep connections with corporates, utilities, and government agencies. Its focus on climate tech and energy transition makes it a top choice for founders ready to pilot and scale.
- Greentown Labs (US/global): As the world’s largest climate tech incubator, Greentown Labs provides workspace, prototyping facilities, and a vibrant community of founders, investors, and corporate partners. Their accelerator programs are tailored for early-stage energy and climate startups.
- EIT InnoEnergy (Europe): Backed by the European Institute of Innovation & Technology, InnoEnergy supports startups across the continent with funding, market access, and connections to a vast network of industry players and investors.
- Third Derivative (global): A joint venture between RMI and New Energy Nexus, Third Derivative connects energy startups with a global ecosystem of investors, corporates, and technical experts, accelerating commercialization and scaling.
- Plug and Play Energy (global): With locations worldwide, Plug and Play’s energy vertical offers startups access to corporate partners, pilot projects, and investor networks, with a strong focus on digitalization and grid innovation.
- Free Electrons (global): This utility-backed accelerator brings together leading energy utilities and startups to co-develop, pilot, and scale breakthrough solutions.
- New Energy Nexus (global): Operating in over 10 countries, New Energy Nexus offers accelerator programs, funding, and community support for clean energy entrepreneurs at every stage.
- EnergyLab (Australia/Asia-Pacific): EnergyLab supports startups across Australia and Southeast Asia, with programs focused on clean energy, mobility, and grid innovation.
Regional and Thematic Programs
Many regions and technologies have their own specialized accelerators. For example:
- Urban Future Lab (NYC, US): A leading hub for smart grid, storage, and urban energy solutions.
- Shell GameChanger (global): Corporate-backed, supporting early-stage energy tech with funding and technical validation.
- MassChallenge (global): Offers energy and climate tracks in multiple locations, with a focus on zero-equity support.
- Hydrogen, storage, and grid-specific accelerators: Programs like the Hydrogen Accelerator (UK/EU) and GridX (Germany) cater to founders in these fast-growing niches.
- Asia-Pacific and MENA region programs: Look for local initiatives in Singapore, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, which are rapidly expanding their support for energy innovation.
What to Expect: Program Structure and Benefits
Most accelerators and incubators offer a mix of:
- Seed funding or grants: Ranging from $25,000 to $500,000, often in exchange for equity or future investment rights.
- Mentorship and expert networks: Access to industry veterans, technical advisors, and successful founders.
- Corporate and utility partnerships: Opportunities to pilot technology with real customers and partners.
- Pilot and demonstration opportunities: Support for deploying and validating solutions in real-world settings.
- Investor demo days and exposure: Direct access to VCs, corporate venture arms, and government funders.
How to Choose the Right Program
To maximize your accelerator experience:
- Align with your technology stage and market: Some programs focus on early-stage validation, others on scaling and commercialization.
- Evaluate alumni success and network strength: Look for programs with a track record of successful graduates and strong industry ties.
- Understand equity terms and funding structure: Some accelerators take equity, others offer grants or convertible notes—know what you’re signing up for.
- Consider location, duration, and focus area: Choose a program that fits your timeline, geographic ambitions, and technology vertical.
Additional Resources and Tools for Energy Startup Fundraising
Grant and Non-Dilutive Funding Platforms
Securing non-dilutive capital is a game-changer for energy startups, allowing founders to scale without giving up equity. In 2025, a growing ecosystem of grant programs and government initiatives is supporting innovation across the energy sector. Here are some of the most valuable resources for finding grants and non-dilutive funding:
- Innovate UK: As the UK’s national innovation agency, Innovate UK offers a wide range of grants and competitions for energy startups, from early-stage R&D to commercialization. Their programs frequently target clean energy, smart grids, and decarbonization, making them a top choice for UK-based and international founders looking to pilot or scale in the region.
- ARPA-E (US): The Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) is a US government agency funding high-potential, high-impact energy technologies that are too early for private-sector investment. ARPA-E’s open funding calls and focused programs support breakthrough innovations in storage, grid, renewables, and more. Learn more
- European Innovation Council (EIC): The EIC provides substantial grant and blended finance opportunities for startups and SMEs across Europe, with a strong focus on energy transition, climate tech, and deep tech. Their Accelerator program is especially attractive for energy founders seeking both non-dilutive grants and follow-on equity.
- New Energy Nexus Grant Programs: Operating globally, New Energy Nexus offers a variety of grant and accelerator programs for clean energy entrepreneurs, particularly in Asia, Africa, and North America. Their initiatives often include non-dilutive funding, mentorship, and access to a global network of partners.
- ClimateLaunchpad: As the world’s largest green business ideas competition, ClimateLaunchpad helps early-stage energy and climate startups access training, mentorship, and non-dilutive prize funding. The program is open to founders worldwide and is a proven springboard for commercial and grant success.
Newsletters, Podcasts, and Media
Staying informed is essential for energy founders navigating the fast-moving world of fundraising and innovation. The following newsletters, podcasts, and media outlets are trusted by industry leaders for the latest news, funding trends, and actionable insights:
- Climate Tech VC: A must-read weekly newsletter covering climate tech deals, investor moves, and startup spotlights. Climate Tech VC is widely regarded as the go-to source for funding news and market analysis in the sector.
- Greentech Media: Though now part of Wood Mackenzie, Greentech Media remains a leading source for in-depth reporting on clean energy markets, policy, and technology trends. Their analysis is essential reading for founders and investors alike.
- The Interchange Podcast: Hosted by industry veterans, The Interchange dives deep into the business and technology of energy innovation, featuring interviews with founders, investors, and policymakers. Listen here
- Energy Disruptors Newsletter: This newsletter curates the most important news, events, and opportunities in the global energy transition, with a focus on disruptive startups and technologies.
- Axios Generate: Axios Generate delivers concise, daily updates on energy policy, deals, and market shifts, making it a favorite among busy founders and executives.
Networking Opportunities and Communities for Energy Founders
In the fast-evolving energy sector, who you know can be just as important as what you build. For founders, networking isn’t just about swapping business cards—it’s about unlocking capital, forging strategic partnerships, accessing pilot projects, and staying ahead of industry trends. In 2025, the landscape of energy innovation is more global and interconnected than ever, with both in-person and digital communities playing a pivotal role.
Top Global Energy Startup Communities
Joining the right community can open doors to investors, mentors, and collaborators. Some of the most influential energy startup communities in 2025 include:
- Greentown Labs (US, global reach): The world’s largest climate tech incubator, Greentown Labs offers coworking, prototyping space, and a robust network of investors and corporate partners. Their events and demo days are must-attend for early-stage founders.
- New Energy Nexus (global): With programs spanning North America, Asia, and Africa, New Energy Nexus connects founders to accelerators, funding, and a global peer network focused on clean energy innovation.
- SET100 Network (Europe/global): Powered by the Start Up Energy Transition initiative, SET100 brings together the world’s top energy startups, offering exposure, networking, and access to European markets.
- Clean Energy Business Network (US): A grassroots community of clean energy professionals, CEBN provides policy advocacy, business development, and regular networking events.
Must-Attend Conferences and Events
Industry events remain a cornerstone for building relationships and visibility. In 2025, the following conferences are especially valuable for energy founders:
- CERAWeek (Houston, global): The premier gathering for energy leaders, investors, and innovators, offering unparalleled networking and deal-making opportunities.
- VERGE (GreenBiz): Focused on climate tech and sustainability, VERGE brings together startups, corporates, and investors from around the world.
- RE+ (formerly Solar Power International): The largest clean energy event in North America, covering solar, storage, and grid innovation.
- World Future Energy Summit (Abu Dhabi): A global platform for energy transition, attracting founders, investors, and policymakers from the Middle East and beyond.
- The Business Booster (EIT InnoEnergy): Europe’s leading event for sustainable energy innovation, featuring startup pitches, investor meetings, and industry panels.
Many of these events now offer hybrid or virtual participation, making them accessible to founders worldwide.
Find an Investor for Energy with Visible
Visible helps founders connect with investors using our connect investor database, find VCs specifically investing in Energy here.
For Energy startups, securing the right investors is critical as it goes beyond mere funding. These investors bring specialized expertise and strategic insights specific to the Energy sector, and their guidance is invaluable in navigating the unique challenges and opportunities within the space.
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