Techstars

Techstars Central LLC, founded in 2006 and based in Boulder, Colorado, operates as a startup accelerator and venture capital firm focused on supporting early-stage technology-oriented companies. It specializes in a mentorship-driven accelerator program, selecting ten startups each summer to participate in a three-month incubation period, offering funding of $120,000 in exchange for equity. Techstars invests primarily in sectors such as fintech, artificial intelligence, blockchain, augmented reality, and IoT, while avoiding investments in medical devices, healthcare technology, and local service-oriented businesses. In addition to its primary accelerator, Techstars has various specialized programs, including those focused on music, retail, mobility, and social impact, with global reach extending to regions such as Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The firm prefers taking minority stakes, typically between six and ten percent, without seeking board representation or investor rights. Techstars has built a robust network of entrepreneurs, mentors, and corporate partners to foster innovation and growth within its portfolio, which includes over 1,000 companies with a significant collective market capitalization.

Ethan Austin

MD of the Techstars Western Union Accelerator

Mark Tortorella

Advisor

Nathanial Zola

MD

Past deals in Energy Efficiency

NeedEnergy

Pre Seed Round in 2023
NeedEnergy is there to provide sustainable and clean energy solutions based on energy data. NeedEnergy is an energy-tech start-up company that leverages innovation, data and modern technology through ai and machine learning relevant with time as its core values.

ROOK

Non Equity Assistance in 2022
One-Stop Fitness Ecosystem where end users, coaches and fitness centers can thrive

Cancrie

Pre Seed Round in 2021
Cancrie produces sustainable advanced material for energy storage devices. It transforms waste into quality advanced battery material that increases the efficiency of energy storage devices through a simple drop-in solution.

Moduly

Pre Seed Round in 2021
The Future of Smart Home Energy

LevelTen Energy

Series C in 2021
LevelTen Energy, Inc. operates a renewable energy transaction marketplace that links corporate and industrial power buyers with power purchase agreements (PPAs) from utility-scale wind, solar, and storage projects. Founded in 2016 and based in Seattle, Washington, the company provides a technology-driven platform that enables a diverse range of customers to access renewable energy solutions. By aggregating buyers and sellers, LevelTen allows smaller corporate and industrial customers to engage with the same projects and terms typically available to larger energy purchasers. This innovative approach simplifies the procurement process, helping customers achieve their sustainability goals while stabilizing energy costs and eliminating the complexities of traditional request for proposal (RFP) processes.

CarbonAnalytics by Prognostic

Pre Seed Round in 2021
Prognostic is an automated Condition Monitoring, Energy Efficiency Monitoring and Predictive Maintenance platform for Asset Performance Management to increase asset efficiency, uptime, while long term maintenance investment planning.

Sync Energy AI

Seed Round in 2020
Syn is an Energy-Tech startup helping electric utilities save money, time, and resources while they prepare for, or deal with natural disaster-like emergencies. We own two proprietary Artificial Intelligence technologies that help us do this, and deliver real value via our SaaS/PaaS offerings.

EnergyHawk

Pre Seed Round in 2020
EnergyHawk is a global leader of satellite powered Energy Assessments. Our goal is to help bridge the gap between third party energy companies and customer energy data. Our customers are able to search the largest energy consumers in North America and easily access consumption, demand and other facility level factors in order to help their go to market strategies.

Mesodyne

Pre Seed Round in 2020
Mesodyne's solution is a novel ultra-high energy density, multi-fuel, silent, compact power generator. Our generators convert fuel to electricity with heat and light as intermediaries: a small micro combustor heats a photonic crystal to incandescence and the resulting light is tailored to the bandgap of an infrared cell resulting in unprecedented high efficiencies.

GO TO-U

Pre Seed Round in 2020
We deliver a seamless EV charging experience with comfort, confidence and simplicity.

EnMass Energy

Pre Seed Round in 2020
EnMass Energy specializes in renewable energy production through biomass, utilizing agricultural waste to generate electricity for industrial and commercial clients, including private utilities and national grids. The company also caters to off-grid consumers and rural communities, facilitating energy access through its innovative solutions. Founded in 2015 and based in Durham, North Carolina, EnMass Energy enhances the efficiency of waste-to-energy projects by digitizing supply chain operations, addressing procurement challenges in the industry. Additionally, the company offers the CACHE system, a mobile platform that connects smallholder farmers with businesses and governments, providing tools for online farm monitoring, field assessments, and improved transparency and traceability for growers.

Hydro Wind Energy

Seed Round in 2020
Hydro Wind Energy is focused on becoming a leading sustainable energy provider, dedicated to addressing the environmental crisis through the development of zero carbon emission technologies. The company aims to deliver low-cost clean electricity and grid-scale energy storage solutions. Additionally, Hydro Wind Energy is engaged in creating handheld seawater desalination devices intended for humanitarian use and the marine sector, thereby enhancing access to essential resources. Through these initiatives, the company seeks to make a significant positive impact on the global environment, economy, and overall welfare of humanity.

PowerMarket

Pre Seed Round in 2020
Climate change is one of the biggest threats today. PowerMarket, supported by the University of Oxford and European Space Agency Business Incubator, is on a mission to facilitate sustainable energy for all, creating energy independence. The traditional energy model is based on centralised, large-scale electricity generation systems. The model is not only capital intensive, but also has high carbon emissions. To combat the threat of climate change, countries are increasingly switching to renewable electricity. However, at a national scale, most still focus on large-scale energy generation plants that require heavy capital investment. Sustainable energy transition challenge is not only for governments and public sector institutions, but for all of us. PowerMarket’s objective is to help individuals and companies to cost effectively install decentralised renewable energy generation and battery storage, so that they can become increasingly energy independent and protect themselves from rising energy prices. First few steps towards an energy revolution - PowerMarket’s pilot Satellite Assessment Tool (SAT) allows individuals and companies to assess their property’s solar feasibility within a few clicks, and for free. Now you can use this information to find suppliers, finance and maintenance solutions fit for your need.

Tempus Energy

Seed Round in 2019
Tempus Energy is a clean-tech start-up, established to exploit a disruptive technology and business model. The company's technology uses AI and smart algorithms to control and optimize when flexible assets use energy. By predicting volatility in carbon intensity and market prices we allow customers to reduce their energy costs - while simultaneously enhancing their use of renewables. Tempus Energy has experience working with SME’s and large business customers to identify and unlock flexible assets. The company was founded in 2012.

Salient Energy

Seed Round in 2019
Salient Energy is focused on the commercialization of a novel zinc-ion battery developed from research at the University of Waterloo. This innovative battery technology is designed for electricity storage in the grid, offering a safer and more sustainable alternative to conventional lithium-ion batteries. Salient Energy's proprietary cathode materials uniquely incorporate zinc into their crystal lattice, resulting in a relatively high energy density. This advancement allows for the use of traditional battery designs compatible with existing manufacturing processes, making it feasible to produce these batteries in current facilities worldwide. Consequently, Salient Energy's products provide a cost-effective, long-lasting solution for energy storage, catering to the needs of electric industry stakeholders.

FuelSave

Pre Seed Round in 2019
FuelSave is a disruptive energy efficiency enhancement company with a strong R&D and engineering background, that combines its own patented innovations and core technologies with components from industry-leading providers to provide highly innovative and efficient turnkey energy solutions in a variety of sectors. FuelSave was founded in 2012, in order to enhance the fuel efficiencies & reduce emissions for trucks and utility vehicles in an innovative & sustainable way. The focus in R&D quickly widened up for various use cases in other markets where the technology can be adapted and deployed to bring measurable benefits to the users that make economical sense while reducing the impact in the environment.

Zeno Power

Pre Seed Round in 2019
They are developing a next-generation radioisotope power system that converts the heat from recycled nuclear waste into electricity.Their novel fuel and shielding design results in a system that is lightweight, cost-effective, and provides always-on, resilient power for years at a time.

LevelTen Energy

Series B in 2019
LevelTen Energy, Inc. operates a renewable energy transaction marketplace that links corporate and industrial power buyers with power purchase agreements (PPAs) from utility-scale wind, solar, and storage projects. Founded in 2016 and based in Seattle, Washington, the company provides a technology-driven platform that enables a diverse range of customers to access renewable energy solutions. By aggregating buyers and sellers, LevelTen allows smaller corporate and industrial customers to engage with the same projects and terms typically available to larger energy purchasers. This innovative approach simplifies the procurement process, helping customers achieve their sustainability goals while stabilizing energy costs and eliminating the complexities of traditional request for proposal (RFP) processes.

CAALA

Pre Seed Round in 2019
Caala GmbH develops real-time analysis optimization software to enhance the energy efficiency of buildings, and further support quantified and rational investment decisions. The company was founded in 2016 and is based in Munich, Germany.

Element 16 Technologies

Seed Round in 2019
Element 16 Technologies operates in the energy industry. The company uses high-temperature heat energy storage to improve efficiency and save money for commercial and industrial facilities. Founded in 2016, Element 16 Technologies is based in Glendale, California.

RatedPower

Seed Round in 2018
RatedPower offers pvDesign, a cloud-based software to carry out the design and engineering of utility-scale solar photovoltaic plants. The software offers a faster, more automated, accurate, and reliable method than traditional engineering, improving the profitability of users assets.

Conservation Labs

Seed Round in 2018
Conservation Labs, Inc., founded in 2016 and based in Brownsville, Pennsylvania, specializes in smart water metering technology designed to reduce water consumption and identify leaks. The company aims to address significant water wastage in the United States, where over 3 trillion gallons are lost annually, resulting in an economic impact of approximately $70 billion. By utilizing its H2know system, Conservation Labs provides users with valuable insights that promote better water management and cost savings. The company is also part of the Amazon Alexa Fund portfolio, highlighting its innovative approach to sustainability and resource conservation.

WATTMORE

Pre Seed Round in 2018
Backed by Techstars, Nikola Power is building a software infrastructure which seamlessly integrates and manages millions of distributed energy resources. We combine our technology with extensive experience in renewable energy development and project finance to help customers easily access and optimize the benefits of energy storage.

NODE

Seed Round in 2018
Making zero emission homes thorough a patent-pending system that solves the most acute problems in residential construction. NODE is a housing systems company that is developing a platform to deliver high-quality, turnkey, homes: in 1/10th the time, using 1/10th the people and at 50% of the cost of conventional construction.

Kapsul

Pre Seed Round in 2018
Kapsul is focused on transforming the home comfort market by creating aesthetically pleasing and high-performance appliances. The company offers a variety of products designed to manage temperature, humidity, and air quality, including a 5,000 BTU window air conditioner that emphasizes ease of installation and user-friendly operation. This air conditioner provides users with an unobstructed view and enhances the visual appeal of both the interior and exterior of homes. Kapsul's appliances are compatible with smart home platforms and can connect to web services, allowing consumers to monitor and manage factors such as energy usage, humidity, and ambient light, thereby improving overall home comfort.

bild

Pre Seed Round in 2017
Bild is an investment platform that facilitates access to smart infrastructure and clean energy projects, primarily utilizing blockchain technology. It addresses the significant barriers to entry that individual investors face when seeking to invest in these asset classes, which have traditionally been dominated by large institutional investors. By connecting project sponsors with a broader pool of flexible capital, Bild enables smaller and medium-sized projects to secure necessary funding, thereby enhancing their project execution capabilities. The platform aims to promote transparency in investments aligned with personal values, while also addressing the urgent need for innovative solutions to combat climate change and stimulate economic growth. Through its peer-to-peer model, Bild positions itself as a key player in the future of clean energy and infrastructure financing.

LevelTen Energy

Series A in 2017
LevelTen Energy, Inc. operates a renewable energy transaction marketplace that links corporate and industrial power buyers with power purchase agreements (PPAs) from utility-scale wind, solar, and storage projects. Founded in 2016 and based in Seattle, Washington, the company provides a technology-driven platform that enables a diverse range of customers to access renewable energy solutions. By aggregating buyers and sellers, LevelTen allows smaller corporate and industrial customers to engage with the same projects and terms typically available to larger energy purchasers. This innovative approach simplifies the procurement process, helping customers achieve their sustainability goals while stabilizing energy costs and eliminating the complexities of traditional request for proposal (RFP) processes.

LevelTen Energy

Pre Seed Round in 2017
LevelTen Energy, Inc. operates a renewable energy transaction marketplace that links corporate and industrial power buyers with power purchase agreements (PPAs) from utility-scale wind, solar, and storage projects. Founded in 2016 and based in Seattle, Washington, the company provides a technology-driven platform that enables a diverse range of customers to access renewable energy solutions. By aggregating buyers and sellers, LevelTen allows smaller corporate and industrial customers to engage with the same projects and terms typically available to larger energy purchasers. This innovative approach simplifies the procurement process, helping customers achieve their sustainability goals while stabilizing energy costs and eliminating the complexities of traditional request for proposal (RFP) processes.

LevelTen Energy

Seed Round in 2016
LevelTen Energy, Inc. operates a renewable energy transaction marketplace that links corporate and industrial power buyers with power purchase agreements (PPAs) from utility-scale wind, solar, and storage projects. Founded in 2016 and based in Seattle, Washington, the company provides a technology-driven platform that enables a diverse range of customers to access renewable energy solutions. By aggregating buyers and sellers, LevelTen allows smaller corporate and industrial customers to engage with the same projects and terms typically available to larger energy purchasers. This innovative approach simplifies the procurement process, helping customers achieve their sustainability goals while stabilizing energy costs and eliminating the complexities of traditional request for proposal (RFP) processes.

Ecoisme

Seed Round in 2016
Ecoisme sp. z o.o., founded in 2014 and based in Krakow, Poland, specializes in home energy monitoring solutions. The company has developed a device that detects the energy consumption of various household appliances and provides users with insights into their electricity usage through a mobile application. This system employs a single sensor that connects contactlessly to the fuse box, enabling users to monitor their energy expenditures and identify potential overuse of grid or solar energy. Additionally, Ecoisme notifies homeowners of any impending appliance failures. The company has gained recognition for its innovative technology, having successfully launched an Indiegogo campaign and received the CES Best of Innovations Award. Furthermore, Ecoisme has joined the Edison Electric Institute and is collaborating on pilot projects with notable organizations such as EDF, Virgin Media, and Dubai Energy and Water Authority.

Ecoisme

Convertible Note in 2016
Ecoisme sp. z o.o., founded in 2014 and based in Krakow, Poland, specializes in home energy monitoring solutions. The company has developed a device that detects the energy consumption of various household appliances and provides users with insights into their electricity usage through a mobile application. This system employs a single sensor that connects contactlessly to the fuse box, enabling users to monitor their energy expenditures and identify potential overuse of grid or solar energy. Additionally, Ecoisme notifies homeowners of any impending appliance failures. The company has gained recognition for its innovative technology, having successfully launched an Indiegogo campaign and received the CES Best of Innovations Award. Furthermore, Ecoisme has joined the Edison Electric Institute and is collaborating on pilot projects with notable organizations such as EDF, Virgin Media, and Dubai Energy and Water Authority.

Simple Energy

Series B in 2014
Simple Energy is a customer engagement platform focused on motivating individuals to save energy. The company develops data-driven software that informs users about their energy consumption and encourages them to adopt more sustainable practices. By making the process of energy conservation social, enjoyable, and straightforward, Simple Energy aims to create lasting behavioral changes in how people use energy. The platform helps users understand their energy usage and identify opportunities for savings, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Enertiv

Pre Seed Round in 2013
Enertiv, Inc. is a digital energy company based in New York that specializes in energy efficiency solutions for the real estate sector and related markets. Founded in 2011, the company focuses on optimizing building operations by transforming data into actionable insights. Enertiv's platform collects and analyzes data from various sources, supplemented by IoT devices, to monitor critical equipment, tenant spaces, and indoor environmental conditions. This comprehensive approach allows property owners and operators to identify inefficiencies and reduce waste in their operating expenses. By streamlining operations and enhancing performance, Enertiv empowers its clients to make informed, data-driven decisions that enhance asset value and improve tenant health.

Playground Energy

Seed Round in 2013
Playground energy is developing ideas which are making outdoor games more fun, educational and functional. Our main focus is to utilize the energy created at outdoor playgrounds and to use it for interactive motivation of the kids without sacrificing the gaming experience.

LinkCycle

Seed Round in 2013
LinkCycle, a TechStars & MIT start-up, uses data science to help large manufacturing companies dramatically reduce production costs. Instead of installing submeters or conducting facility audits, our algorithms identify cost saving opportunities using only readily available data -- without ever having to step foot in the plant! Our customers include 4 Fortune 500 companies, one of which we provided savings of $1M on their annual electricity bill of $5M in one of their facilities. Here is a quick video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AA9SX__AhnI) summary of our solution.

Simple Energy

Series A in 2013
Simple Energy is a customer engagement platform focused on motivating individuals to save energy. The company develops data-driven software that informs users about their energy consumption and encourages them to adopt more sustainable practices. By making the process of energy conservation social, enjoyable, and straightforward, Simple Energy aims to create lasting behavioral changes in how people use energy. The platform helps users understand their energy usage and identify opportunities for savings, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Playground Energy

Seed Round in 2013
Playground energy is developing ideas which are making outdoor games more fun, educational and functional. Our main focus is to utilize the energy created at outdoor playgrounds and to use it for interactive motivation of the kids without sacrificing the gaming experience.

Playground Energy

Seed Round in 2012
Playground energy is developing ideas which are making outdoor games more fun, educational and functional. Our main focus is to utilize the energy created at outdoor playgrounds and to use it for interactive motivation of the kids without sacrificing the gaming experience.

Smart Habitat

Pre Seed Round in 2011
In 2002, Smart Habitat was born. Encompassing an array of possibilities, it differs from most other companies in the industry. Smart Habitat is focused on the effects that modern technology has on the environment and is committed to creating only energy-efficient systems. Smart Habitat was created amidst the economic falter caused by the 9/11 terrorist attacks and the War on Iraq. Despite a shaky foundation, Smart Habitat successfully began the movement towards improving domestic energy consumption. Through the economic surplus and housing boom Smart Habitat soared. Today, Smart Habitat continues to trudge through the current economic slough and will emerge as a powerful leader dedicated to helping the world, building one smart habitat at a time.

Simple Energy

Seed Round in 2011
Simple Energy is a customer engagement platform focused on motivating individuals to save energy. The company develops data-driven software that informs users about their energy consumption and encourages them to adopt more sustainable practices. By making the process of energy conservation social, enjoyable, and straightforward, Simple Energy aims to create lasting behavioral changes in how people use energy. The platform helps users understand their energy usage and identify opportunities for savings, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Power2Switch

Seed Round in 2011
Power2Switch is a free online resource that helps residents and businesses lower their electric bills by enabling customers to search, switch, and save on electricity supply prices from multiple energy suppliers and also gain access to renewable energy. The site is currently operational in Illinois and Texas, and is launching in other deregulated states in the coming months. Power2Switch technology makes the switching process seamless for the consumer (cutting process time from weeks to hours), automated for the supplier (contract completion is easier online), and provides analytics to increase supplier efficiency in pricing.

Simple Energy

Seed Round in 2011
Simple Energy is a customer engagement platform focused on motivating individuals to save energy. The company develops data-driven software that informs users about their energy consumption and encourages them to adopt more sustainable practices. By making the process of energy conservation social, enjoyable, and straightforward, Simple Energy aims to create lasting behavioral changes in how people use energy. The platform helps users understand their energy usage and identify opportunities for savings, contributing to a more sustainable future.