Recently CTO West announced its group of teams accepted into their accelerator and business plan competition program for 2019.  Three local teams were included, the largest number so far in this annual program. They will be competing for over $100,000 in prizes.  The three teams are:

RePurpose Energy–Reusing electric vehicle batteries to store solar energy

Empow Lighting—Developing LED lighting film for low-cost retrofits of fluorescent lights using thin and flexible LED lighting sheets that can snap into existing fluorescent light fixtures, with 50% energy savings

ZYD Energy–Developing efficient thermal energy storage solutions for buildings 

CTO West awards prizes in eight categories as well as a Grand Prize.  You can read more about all the companies here.  In addition, the teams participate in a “bootcamp” to learn how to improve their business plans and pitch presentations.  Selected teams get a lot of exposure to investors, mentors, and allies. This is great news for the companies and for the region.  Congratulations to all. 

Thomas Hall

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Gary Simon is the Chair of CleanStarts Board. A seasoned energy executive and entrepreneur with 45 years of experience in business, government, and non-profits.