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Cox Cleantech Accelerator: A New Path for Innovative Startups

In a notable advancement for clean technology, the Cox Cleantech Accelerator has welcomed its newest cohort of startups dedicated to addressing some of the most significant sustainability challenges of our times. Launched in Atlanta, Georgia, the program is a collaboration between Cox Enterprises, gener8tor, and the Georgia Cleantech Innovation Hub. This year, the accelerator has ramped up its investment to $250,000 per startup, marking a profound commitment to fostering innovation and growth within the cleantech sector.

Over the course of 12 weeks, participating companies gain access to crucial resources, mentorship, and robust networking opportunities within the broader cleantech ecosystem in Georgia. This initiative is part of Cox Enterprises' overarching strategy, which encompasses over $3 billion in investments aimed at clean technology solutions. As a result, Atlanta is increasingly positioned as a vibrant hub for cleantech startups.

Accelerating Sustainable Solutions

Cox Cleantech Accelerator aims to empower early-stage companies that possess market-validated technologies and are well-positioned to scale. According to Jack Semrau, Atlanta Venture Ecosystem lead at Cox Enterprises, "The Accelerator reflects our dedication to nurturing a thriving venture ecosystem in Atlanta and across the Southeast. By investing in promising founders and connecting them with essential resources and networks, we’re promoting technologies that benefit both the economy and the environment."

The 2026 cohort includes five promising startups that are making strides in various fields:

• - WattsUp from Birmingham, AL, offers an autonomous operations platform that enhances the reliability of electric vehicle charger networks, thereby reducing downtime.
• - Silvis Materials, hailing from Boulder, CO, has innovated a bio-based adhesive that eliminates harmful formaldehyde, providing a lower-carbon alternative for construction and packaging sectors.
• - LCOE.ai, based in Atlanta, GA, utilizes AI to automate solar asset management, which improves operational performance through efficient task management.
• - Fordje, based in Portland, OR, creates a platform granting instant access to city-specific climate and zoning codes to expedite project approvals.
• - Buckstop from Washington, DC, focuses on empowering energy and infrastructure asset value benchmarking through transaction-backed intelligence, promoting circular economy practices.

The Future of Cleantech in Atlanta

As Miguel Granier, managing director of the Cox Cleantech Accelerator, highlights, “Cleantech innovation is crucial in cultivating a sustainable economy.” The Accelerator's mission extends beyond mere financial investment; it includes connecting founders with industry leaders to streamline the transition from groundbreaking ideas to practical, scalable solutions that deliver significant economic and environmental benefits.

The Cox Cleantech Accelerator not only facilitates workshops and mentorship but also allows founders to engage with investors and other stakeholders at major innovation events, such as Atlanta Tech Week and Super South. This interaction not only enriches their insights but also enhances their prospects for securing future investments.

As part of their ongoing commitment to sustainable innovation, the Accelerator is also launching a new Residency program later this year. This six-week program targets very early-stage startups in the Southeast that focus on groundbreaking cleantech technologies. Selected candidates will receive a $10,000 stipend and specialized programming aimed at developing initial pilots and securing investments.

Looking Ahead

For more information about the Cox Cleantech Accelerator, including application details for the Residency program, you can visit gener8tor.com/Cox. The future of cleantech is bright, with Cox Enterprises leading the charge towards a more sustainable and inclusive economy, ensuring that the advancements made today will positively impact generations to come. The initiatives like the Cox Cleantech Accelerator underscore the critical role of innovation and collaboration in achieving environmental sustainability.