News Release: PGW and Temple University’s Small Business Development Center Launch the Energy Innovation Lab
Posted on: Jul 20, 2021The Lab will be an incubator for ideas that innovate the energy industry,
and increase energy efficiency and affordability
PHILADELPHIA (July 20, 2021) – Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW), in partnership with Temple University’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC), has launched The Energy Innovation Lab, a small business incubator designed to empower energy entrepreneurs whose product or service ideas have the potential to reimagine the future of the energy industry, increase energy efficiency and affordability, and help PGW and the City meet their 2050 climate action goals.
The goal of the incubator is to leverage the creativity and diversity of the entrepreneurial community to develop environmentally friendly concepts that meet evolving energy needs for Philadelphia residents, underserved communities, and businesses. The chosen entrepreneur(s) will receive hands-on training, mentoring, and real-time feedback from PGW energy industry experts and SBDC business development consultants.
A knowledgeable panel of judges will oversee a two-round selection process during which applicants’ proposals will be evaluated and ranked based on viability; alignment with PGW’s mission of enhancing the quality of life for all by delivering safe, reliable, affordable energy in an environmentally responsible way; and increasing energy access for low-income customers. The volunteer judges are representatives from Philadelphia’s leading energy, innovation, and start-up development organizations, including:
- The City of Philadelphia
- Comcast
- The Philadelphia Foundation
- University City Science Center
- Benjamin Franklin Technology Partners
- NextFab
- PGW
- Temple University
The Energy Innovation Lab will be headquartered at Temple’s SBDC where the selected energy entrepreneur(s) will receive comprehensive entrepreneurship support services for the duration of the two-year program, as well as a stipend of up to $30,000. The application period will open on July 20, 2021 and applications will be accepted through September 17, 2021.
“PGW continually seeks new ideas and solutions as we drive toward a clean energy future that meets the needs of Philadelphia residents and businesses,” said Elliott Gold, Vice President of Corporate Planning at PGW. “The Energy Innovation Lab will engage the diverse entrepreneurs and small businesses that will be essential for achieving our vision of an inclusive and sustainable energy future. We appreciate the support of Temple University’s Small Business Development Center, the business community, and the volunteer judges in establishing the incubator and providing their expertise.”
To learn more about the program, application process, judges, and timelines please visit incubator.pgworks.com.
For Media help call our media hotline - Phone: (267) 249-7542
