Ameren announces energy technology startup initiative

Ameren Corporation recently announced the start of Ameren Accelerator, a program created in partnership with the University of Missouri System, UMSL Accelerate and Capital Innovators, to assess, mentor and invest in energy technology startup companies in St. Louis, Missouri.

The partners will choose five to seven startup companies, which will each receive $100,000 in seed capital to participate in the program, as well as intensive mentoring, technical assistance, facilities and networking connections from the Ameren Accelerator partners.

“As new energy technologies rapidly advance, it is critical that we take bold steps today to better position Ameren to meet our customers’ future energy needs and expectations,” Warner Baxter, chairman, president and CEO of Ameren Corporation, said. “This forward-thinking initiative is expected to draw innovators, entrepreneurs and business startups from around the world to St. Louis and to provide us with important insights and technologies to deliver long-term value to our customers and the communities we serve.”

The program will accept applications through May 12. It will begin in July and run for 12 weeks. At the program’s conclusion, participants will be invited to showcase their efforts to program partners and potential third-party investors. At this time, Ameren may select startups for continued partnership past the end of the program.