Cleantech Accelerator Powered by National Grid Introduces its 2026 Cohort

CenterState CEO launched its Cleantech Accelerator powered by National Grid at the start of 2026 with a tour of INSPYRE Innovation Hub and orientation to the program and its resources. The Cleantech Accelerator is a one-year program designed to support early-stage cleantech startups with ties to higher education. Four finalists were selected from a competitive pool of applicants and are now working on validating their technology, running pilot projects and preparing for commercialization. All participating companies reside in or serve one of 12 eligible counties in New York state. 

This year’s participants are: 

Applied Biorefinery Sciences - Derived from research conducted at SUNY ESF, Applied Biorefinery Sciences is working to scale and deploy a patented biorefining platform that can produce a range of sustainable energy, chemical and material products from biomass.   

IoTRight (dba InteliEQ) - InteliEQ transforms indoor environments into living responsive ecosystems that actively support human health, performance and sustainability by employing an integrated intelligence engine that continuously monitors, actively purifies both air and surfaces and optimizes energy use in real-time. 

RETRN Bioworks - Retrn Bioworks converts abundant plant wastes into sustainable bioplastic barrier coatings for fiber and paper food packaging. 

TKFabricate (TKF) - TKF designs and manufactures integrated mechanical systems that dramatically reduce energy use, simplify building upgrades and maintenance, and enhance tenant well-being in multifamily housing. 

“We’re thrilled to welcome the inaugural cohort of our new Cleantech Accelerator,” said CenterState CEO Entrepreneurial Manager Emad Rahim. “Each of these startups brings bold, inventive solutions that push the boundaries of what’s possible in addressing environmental challenges, while energizing and strengthening our local entrepreneurship ecosystem.” 

The Cleantech Accelerator offers participating founders access capital, mentorship and a high-growth entrepreneurial community rooted in sustainability. This includes nearly $40,000 in in-kind program benefits and the opportunity to earn a $50,000 investment after six months in the program. During their 12 months in the accelerator, participating founders will hear from a range of professionals, providing insights on topics such as marketing, pitching, investment opportunities, intellectual property and much more.   

The Cleantech Accelerator is among the growing suite of programs and resources available to the region’s entrepreneurial community at the INSPYRE Innovation Hub by CenterState. Learn more about it and other programs on INSPYRE’s website.