CEI History

The Clean Energy Incubator (CEI), launched in August 2001, is a joint effort between the Austin Technology Incubator (ATI) and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) promoting the development of viable businesses focusing on clean energy. In striving to help these companies solidify management teams, secure adequate funding, and accelerate their time to market, CEI is not only setting the standard for clean energy business development, but stands as the first incubator of its kind.

Since 2002, CEI has served 18 companies within the renewable and energy efficiency sectors; more specifically, these companies range from geothermal power and biofuels, to wind energy and water conservation. With CEI's assistance, companies fill in knowledge gaps and build stronger business propositions, helping to increase their chance for success.  Current member companies can be found on our portfolio page.

CEI has been generously supported by the Texas State Energy Conservation Office (SECO) since our inception, and has previously received funding from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). In 2006, CEI secured funding from a collaborative effort with the City of Austin and Austin Energy. The partnership not only explores opportunities in clean energy but also supports the production of our annual Clean Energy Venture Summit.