Rice Alliance Seeks Entrepreneurs for Energy Transition Program

University selected as a partner for new Chevron Studio

HOUSTON – Entrepreneurs who are interested in running a startup that can impact the energy transition can apply to be matched with a novel technology in a new Chevron Studio program.

The newly launched, one-of-a-kind program run by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and supported by Chevron Technology Ventures is designed to help entrepreneurs build startups by linking them with world-class, early-stage technologies being developed at labs and universities. Applicants do not have to have an existing affiliation with Rice or any other university or national laboratory.

Those selected will work with leading scientists and technologists to find solutions toward a lower-carbon future while developing the entrepreneurial skills and business acumen needed to scale up and commercialize the technology they’re matched with. They’ll also have the opportunity develop a wide network of technical and commercial experts.

The inaugural class will focus on four sectors: carbon utilization, hydrogen and renewable energy, energy storage systems and solutions for a circular economy.

Rice was selected as a Chevron Studio partner due to the quality of its research and the commercialization potential of technologies coming through its Office of Technology Transfer (OTT), as well as the Rice Alliance’s longstanding relationships with Chevron Technology Ventures and the NREL. OTT has had over 1,000 patents issued since inception, and Rice startup ventures have raised over $560 million in total funding.

As part of the partnership, Rice University technologies will be recommended to the program based on those which have the potential to have a positive impact on the energy transition and are ready to progress to the next stage. The technologies within the four energy sectors are being selected by Rice OTT, with support from the Rice Alliance.

Interested entrepreneurs can apply through the Rice Alliance to be matched with a technology. Click here to apply by June 6.

More information about the program can be found at www.chevronstudio.com.