By Tim Ryan

In a significant boost to Virginia’s clean energy initiatives, the Dominion Entegy Innovation Center (DEIC) has been honored with a prestigious federal award. The Virginia-based center, known for its commitment to fostering high-tech entrepreneurs and small businesses, has been awarded the Stage 2 Growth Accelerator Fund Competition prize. This accolade, presented by the Small Business Administration (SBA), comes with a substantial $150,000 grant.

The DEIC’s mission, centered around supporting entrepreneurs driving towards a net-zero carbon economy, aligns seamlessly with the goals of the Growth Accelerator Fund Competition. Since its inception in 2014, the competition has been instrumental in catalyzing innovation across the U.S., distributing over $19 million in prizes to unique winners spanning 52 states and territories.

The 2023 iteration of the competition introduced a multi-stage approach, with DEIC emerging as one of the distinguished Stage One “Catalyze” winners. This year’s theme areas ranged from National Security & Global Competitiveness to Climate & Renewable Energy, with DEIC’s recognition falling under the latter, emphasizing their pivotal role in advancing clean energy solutions.

Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman of the U.S. Small Business Administration highlighted the importance of such awards, stating, “SBA’s Catalyze winners join SBA’s extensive network of support organizations who build thriving startup ecosystems.” She further emphasized the role of these organizations in ensuring that the next wave of science and technology-based innovations evolve into successful businesses.

For the Dominion Entegy Innovation Center, this recognition not only underscores their contribution to Virginia’s clean energy landscape but also reinforces their commitment to building a sustainable future for all.

REaKTOR Technology Innovation Center has partnered with Dominion Energy Innovation Center (DEIC) and the Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce (VPC) on an upcoming (October 24, 1-3 pm) VPC Spotlight Series to showcase the clean energy and climate technology startups that will be driving Virginia’s coastal resilience and decarbonization efforts. You can register to attend with this link.