Upstate Capital, NYSERDA, Hudson Valley Venture Hub, and Think Dutchess recently collaborated to foster connections among venture capital investors focusing on climate tech. This event aimed to unite three key groups: VCs in climate, industry experts in search of new technologies, and program managers supporting startups. Entrepreneurs and service providers were also in attendance for the main event.
Curated Networking
The day began with a private networking session for investors and industry professionals. This was an opportunity for a curated list of attendees to be matched for 1:1 conversations. Attendees included representatives from Rapid Ventures, Energy Innovation Capital, NY Ventures, NYSERDA, Clean Energy Ventures, Columbia Technology Ventures, among others.
Founder Roundtable
The event included a Founder Roundtable led by Arthur Gillett of HowGood. HowGood assists leading brands, retailers, suppliers, and restaurants in measuring, managing, and communicating their environmental and social impact. The roundtable was moderated by Eliza Edge, the Director of the Hudson Valley Innovation Hot Spot.
Investor Conversation
In the afternoon, attendees convened for a panel discussion on venture capital perspectives in the climate tech industry. The panel featured John Freer of Energy Innovation Capital, Lou Schick of Clean Energy Ventures, and Andy Reed of NY Ventures, who shared their insights and experiences.
Entrepreneur Resources
The program highlighted resources for entrepreneurs including:
- NYSERDA: The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) works to promote energy efficiency, renewable energy, and emissions reduction across New York’s economy and energy system.
- Think Dutchess Alliance for Business: a nonprofit agency that supports existing and new businesses in Dutchess County.
- Hudson Valley Venture Hub: a state-sponsored innovation hub that connects businesses to existing regional organizations and services – as well as provides direct, and highly individualized incubation services to select startups and existing companies with the potential to reach larger-scale commercialization of their products and services.
- Uptake Alliance: an intersectional community of startups, corporations, utilities, investors and policymakers
- Columbia Technology Ventures: a program that facilitates the transfer of inventions from academic research labs to the market.
The event concluded with light refreshments and networking, for attendees to connect and discuss future collaborations. Don’t miss our next event – join Upstate Capital today!