Ameren seeking startups to participate in ‘Accelerator’ program
Ameren Corp. is accepting applications for a its public-private partnership called the Ameren Accelerator, which was created to make the energy grid smarter and more reliable.
The program, now in its third year, mentors and invests in energy-technology startup companies. Ameren and its partners are seeking energy-focused startups to develop new energy technologies related to clean energy, the energy grid and smart communities. Applications are being accepted through May 24 at amerenaccelerator.com.
The partnership includes the University of Missouri System, UMSL Accelerate, and Capital Innovators.
“As technologies continue to advance in the energy sector, we believe there is no better time to lean forward and focus on innovation so that we can meet our customers’ rising energy needs and expectations for generations to come,” Warner Baxter, chairman, president and CEO at Ameren, said. “The Ameren Accelerator is proving to be an excellent way to leverage our company’s expertise and resources with entrepreneurs who are exploring innovative energy solutions to produce cleaner energy and make the energy grid smarter and more reliable. It’s also further enhancing St. Louis’ leading position in innovation and entrepreneurship as well as helping drive economic development.”
Each startup that is selected will receive $100,000 in seed capital to participate in the program, which will be located at Ameren’s facilities in St. Louis. During the 12-week program, the companies will receive mentoring, technical assistance, facilities and networking connections from Ameren Accelerator partners. Experts in the areas of energy, sales, marketing, pricing, technical development, operations, talent development and finance also will provide guidance.
“Capital Innovators is excited to help fuel the third Ameren Accelerator cohort and source innovations from around the globe to contribute to the future of connected communities,” Judy Sindecuse, CEO of Capital Innovators, said. “It is our mission to help find cutting-edge solutions for Ameren and provide entrepreneurs corporate engagement, connections and growth tactics that are unparalleled to other programs.”
More than 500 companies have applied for the program since it was launched in 2017. Last year the program drew more than 300 applicants from 24 states and 49 countries. Overall, 13 companies have been selected to participate in the program.
The Ameren Accelerator program is one of the first of its kind in the United States. It aims to better position Ameren to meet its customers’ future energy needs. It also attracts startups to St. Louis and provides university students with internships and opportunities to be more involved in the energy business. Six of the startups that have participated in the Ameren Accelerator now maintain a St. Louis presence.
“As a University-led Accelerator, we bring brilliant scientists, faculty and researchers to amplify the program, mentors and alums to coach and connect, as well as eager students who work hard for the selected companies,” Dan Lauer, founding executive director, UMSL Accelerate, said. “What energy entrepreneur would not want to participate?”
