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Steps to Apply

2026 APPLICATIONS ARE DELAYED

NOTICE: The 2026 Rocket Fund program will open later in the year. To be put on the list for updated information please contact the Resnick Office of Entrepreneurial Programs [email protected]

Meanwhile, check out the podcast "Lab to Startup" featuring Rocket Fund, where Stephanie Yanchinski, the Resnick Sustainability Institute's Director of Entrepreneurial Programs, shares information about the Rocket Fund program, some priority areas for funding, and the process. Get a head start by reading the Rocket Fund Guidelines:

Review Rocket Fund 2025 Guidelines for eligibility, scope, technologies, and tips for applying.

Broadening Participation: In 2021 the Rocket Fund established a commitment to broaden participation and draw in talent from every corner of innovation tackling the problems of sustainability. We look for those with a mission to have as meaningful impact as possible, including spreading the benefits of cleantech and sustainability to all levels of our communities. A significant portion of the scoring during the competition will address this challenge. Please ensure you describe fully the factors that show your company's commitment to your technology's impact with widespread product adoption, and the corporate strategic considerations that indicate you are considering how to enhance your approach to this challenge.

Program Timeline (Virtual)

• Round 1: Application Deadline and Initial Screening for 2026, date to be announced

• Round 2: Semi-Finals | date to be announced
  • Selected semi-finalists reviewed by the Rocket Fund Technology Advisory Committee (TAC) of industry, technical and business experts and investors
  • TAC meets, finalists selected with special reference to: technology innovation with validating data and its impact on potential markets; understanding of beachhead (Serviceable Obtainable Market) market and path to commercialization; customer interaction that sets your business direction; solid metrics for measuring impact e.g. on energy usage, greenhouse gas emissions, carbon decarbonization and sequestration; impact on diversity, leadership and community, and use of funds with customer or "gold standard" demonstration site

• Round 3: Finals | date to be announced
  • Team presentations (virtual) to Review Panel of utility and industry experts, academics, and investors

Award Process: Stage 1: Establish Performance Agreement and Milestones; Stage 2: Accounting process for receiving grant