Grants for CleanTech Companies in Colorado (2026)
Colorado is one of the country's strongest cleantech states, anchored by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, a mature solar and wind supply chain across the Front Range, and strong state-level support through the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) Advanced Industries grant program. OEDIT's AI program specifically funds cleantech companies in proof-of-concept and early-stage tracks, with non-dilutive awards that have supported hundreds of Colorado startups. NREL partnerships — including the Innovation Crossroads-adjacent West Gate climate fellowship — provide unique lab access and non-dilutive support. Federal DOE SBIR/STTR programs flow heavily into Colorado given NREL and the broader research infrastructure. Private programs from Third Derivative (based in Boulder) and CO-LABS coordinate further cleantech-specific support. Xcel Energy's Innovative Clean Technology (ICT) program adds utility-linked pilot and funding opportunities. Bootstrap Directory aggregates Colorado cleantech grants and non-dilutive programs across state, federal, utility, and private sources. Colorado's altitude advantage for high-altitude testing and abundant land for renewable demonstrations also create unusual opportunities for hardware founders piloting at scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is OEDIT's Advanced Industries cleantech program?
OEDIT's Advanced Industries (AI) grant program funds cleantech companies (alongside six other sectors) through proof-of-concept, early-stage capital, and commercialization grants. Award sizes range from $50K to $500K+ depending on the track. It has been one of the more impactful state-level cleantech programs in the country by total awards to Colorado startups.
How does NREL involvement work for cleantech founders?
NREL supports cleantech founders through CRADAs (Cooperative Research and Development Agreements), Technology Partnership Agreements, the West Gate climate fellowship, and broader partner programs. Direct funding typically comes through DOE SBIR/STTR with NREL as a technical partner. Access to NREL's test facilities can be as valuable as cash for hardware founders.
When are Colorado cleantech grants open?
OEDIT Advanced Industries programs run on cycles (typically two rounds annually). Federal DOE SBIR/STTR solicitations run year-round. Xcel's ICT program operates on a specific RFP cycle. Third Derivative and partner programs have annual cohorts. Bootstrap Directory tracks current Colorado cleantech openings.