About this programme
The Catalyst Program, run jointly by MassVentures and the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC), funds early-stage climate technology development. Alongside it runs the Academic Activator Spotlight Program, a related track for researchers at nonprofit institutions.
Together the programs aim to demonstrate the feasibility of transforming new ideas from the research stage into commercially viable technologies that attract industry and investor interest. Combined, they award up to $75,000 in grant funding per project to a maximum of fifteen total researchers and/or early-stage companies.
How it works
The Catalyst Program awards grants of up to $75,000 for prototype development.
The Academic Activator Spotlight Program awards three to five additional grants of up to $75,000 each, specifically to Principal Investigators at Massachusetts nonprofit research institutions.
Beyond the grant, awardees get mentoring, network access, market insights, and pitch coaching.
Who can apply
Proposed technologies must be at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 2 to 4 and show strong potential for both climate impact and commercialization.
Eligible applicants are Massachusetts-based early-stage climatetech companies, Principal Investigators at Massachusetts nonprofit research or academic institutions, or Massachusetts students led by faculty at such institutions.
How to apply
- Applications open August 18, 2026.
- Submit your application by the deadline of September 30, 2026, 5:00 PM EDT.
- Finalists are notified in November 2026.
- Award decisions are made in January 2027.
Frequently asked
How much funding is available?
Up to $75,000 per project, awarded to a maximum of fifteen total researchers and/or early-stage companies across the Catalyst and Academic Activator Spotlight tracks.
What technology maturity level is required?
Proposed technologies must be at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 2 to 4.
Who can apply?
Massachusetts-based early-stage climatetech companies, Principal Investigators at Massachusetts nonprofit research institutions, or Massachusetts students led by faculty at such institutions.
What support do awardees get besides the grant?
Mentoring, network access, market insights, and pitch coaching.
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Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.