The Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Oak Ridge National Laboratory launched a new program called “Innovation Crossroads,” designed to continue advancing the energy technology ideas of our nation’s top innovators.

Up to five entrepreneurs will receive a fellowship that covers living costs, benefits and a travel stipend for up to 2 years, plus up to $350,000 to use on collaborative research and development at ORNL. The program is expected in start in early 2017.

The announcement featured remarks from Thomas Zacharia, Deputy Director for Science and Technology at ORNL and Mark Johnson, Director of EERE’s Advanced Manufacturing Office.

“There is a huge opportunity and need to develop an emerging American energy ecosystem where clean tech entrepreneurs can thrive,” said Johnson. “This program gives the next generation of clean energy innovators a chance to make a transformative impact on the way we generate, process and use our energy resources. Innovation Crossroads will play an important role in strengthening the Southeast region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

A growing global population and increased industrialization require new approaches to energy that reliable, affordable and carbon neutral. While important progress has been made in the deployment of clean energy technologies, a new program at DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) will invest in the next generation of first-time clean energy entrepreneurs to accelerate the pace of innovation.

Innovation Crossroads is the most recent clean energy accelerator to launch at a DOE national laboratory and the first located in the Southeast. ORNL is the nation’s largest science and energy laboratory, with expertise and resources in clean energy, computing, neutron science, advanced materials, and nuclear science.

Located on ORNL’s main campus, Innovation Crossroads entrepreneurs will have access to ORNL’s world-class research talent and DOE facilities including the Manufacturing Demonstration Facility, the National Transportation Research Center, the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility and the Spallation Neutron Source. Through a partnership with mentor organizations in the Southeast, participants will also receive assistance with developing business strategies, conducting market research, and finding long-term financing and commercial partners.

Innovation Crossroads will be led by Tom Rogers, ORNL Director of Industrial Partnerships and Economic Development.

For more information about Innovation Crossroads, please visit innovationcrossroads.ornl.gov