
Supported by
the California Energy Commission
LACI Innovators is the premiere network access program for early-stage startups in Southern California working together to create an inclusive green economy.
Since 2018, the Innovators program has helped Cohorts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6:
“This is a really great program for early stage startups who need to be a little more connected to the community!”
- Rejoule, 2019 Cohort 3
“[The Innovators program gave us] resources to help further develop our company and connections to events and opportunities within the industry.”
- Alumina Energy, 2019 Cohort 3
“The relationship and the consistent on-hand connections with the LACI team, both leading us towards fundraising opportunities and providing us insight where needed was the most valuable part of the Innovators program.”
- Sunnie Solar, 2019 Cohort 3

Overview
The Innovators program is a free 12-month light-touch network access program for early-stage cleantech startups. Designed for companies based in Southern California, this program helps startups access opportunities across the state.
Details of the 12-Month Program
- There’s no cost to apply or participate.
- Eligible startups must operate out of one of the four counties in our Southern California territory: Los Angeles County, Santa Barbara County, Ventura County, or Orange County.
- This program is catered to early stage ventures that are pre-seed or pre-prototype with at least some proof of concept. Please click here to apply
Benefits
- Program services are light-touch and focus on network access – we act as a “concierge” rather than a coach.
- Regular updates on ecosystem opportunities
- Access to platforms and resources and discounts to industry events
- Check-ins with a LACI staff member every other month
- Curriculum development opportunities in expert-led workshops and pitch clinics
- Invitations to participate in LACI events and showcases
- Promotion to LACI’s network and ecosystem
- Visibility within California Energy Commission’s network
- Discounted access to desk space at the La Kretz Innovation Campus and Advanced Prototyping Center
Questions? Email pipeline@laci.org or schedule a call with LACI’s Pipeline Team Calendly.