July 19, 2016

The Path to Innovation

Ana Melentijevic, Market Development Fellow

Often, the biggest obstacle startups face when it comes to commercialization is knowing where to look for funding. Good news — MassCEC is here to help, through its InnovateMass program! Since the program launched four years ago, MassCEC has invested nearly $2.2 million in cleantech innovation, providing crucial funding of up to $150,000 in grants, in addition to fully-funded technical support for cleantech projects with strong potential for commercialization.

If you are interested in knowing what makes for a successful pitch, how to attract customers and partners, and how to write an effective and comprehensive proposal, look no further! MassCEC is hosting a launch for the next round of InnovateMass at 6 p.m. on July 26 at the Chestnut Innovation Center to kick off its fifth consecutive year of grant funding. Join us with Amesbury Mayor Ken Gray and State Representative James Kelcourse to learn about InnovateMass and the application process from past awardees.

Potential applicants will meet with other entrepreneurs, hear from program alumni, as well as learn more about this year’s energy storage carve-out. Compete head-to-head in a program-funded energy storage technology challenge to help promote innovation within the energy storage sector, a priority area of focus for the state.

Guests will have the opportunity to hear opening remarks from MassCEC Interim CEO Steve Pike, as well as a panel of former awardees. Bill Staby, CEO of Resolute Marine Energy, Moneer Azzam, CEO of SolarOne Solutions, and Ed Lovelace, CTO of XL Hybrids, will speak about their successes and challenges, and share advice for new applicants. MassCEC staff will host a general Q&A following the event to answer any questions you may have about the application process and program goals.

Attendees will leave the event with an in-depth knowledge of the InnovateMass program, equipped with useful tips of how to submit a successful proposal. This event is the perfect opportunity for you to connect with past awardees and colleagues in the cleantech industry, so register here and get networking!

            When: Tuesday, July 26, 2016 from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM (EDT)

            Where: Chestnut Innovation Center - 11 Chestnut Street, Amesbury, MA 01913

            Light refreshments will be served