EnergyLab’s 2026 Scaleup Program is a premier virtual accelerator designed to facilitate the deployment of innovative decarbonisation technologies within the Australian and New Zealand energy sectors. Running from June to October 2026, the program connects global startups with high-level industry decision-makers, including the AER and ARENA, through three structured modules: Program Kickoff, Industry, and Ecosystem. Participants benefit from 1:1 mentorship, investor pitching opportunities, and exposure at the AllEnergy Conference in Melbourne. To be eligible, startups must possess commercialised technology, strong leadership, and high potential for scale. Applications close on March 2, 2026.
EnergyLab Scaleup Program 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Organization | EnergyLab |
| Focus Area | Clean Energy & Decarbonisation Tech |
| Location | Virtual (Australian Time Zones) |
| Program Duration | June – October 2026 |
| Eligible Startups | Global (Must have proven technology) |
| Application Deadline | March 2, 2026 |
Virtual EnergyLab Scaleup Program 2026 Details
EnergyLab’s 2026 Scaleup Program acts as a strategic gateway for the world’s most promising clean energy startups to enter and expand within the Australian and New Zealand markets. This virtual program is meticulously structured to bridge the gap between innovative technology and industrial application.
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The program consists of three core modules—Kickoff, Industry, and Ecosystem—complemented by high-stakes public events. By providing direct access to regulators like the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) and major renewable energy developers, EnergyLab ensures that founders are not just pitching, but are actively integrating into the energy value chain.
Benefits for EnergyLab Scaleup Program 2026
Tier 1: Strategic Industry & Investor Access
- Industry Decision-Maker Introductions: Direct pathways to meet executive leaders from DNSPs, TNSPs, and energy retailers in Australia and New Zealand.
- Climate Investor Pitching: A dedicated event in September 2026 allowing founders to pitch to Australia’s most active climate tech investors for capital raising.
- Masterclass & Coaching: Access to professional 1:1 pitch coaching and a masterclass designed to refine the value proposition for the Australian market.
Tier 2: Ecosystem Integration & Mentorship
- Regulator Briefings: Exclusive sessions with AER, ARENA, and AEMC to navigate the complex regulatory landscape of the Australian energy market.
- Mentor Network Access: Ability to request tailored introductions to EnergyLab’s expansive network of successful energy sector entrepreneurs.
- Peer-to-Peer Learning: Membership in a cohort of high-performing founders to share scaling strategies and operational insights.
Tier 3: Public Exposure & Alumni Support
- AllEnergy Melbourne Showcase: Opportunity to participate in product demos and panels at the AllEnergy Conference in October 2026, the largest energy event in Australia.
- Social Media & PR Support: Professional promotion of the startup across EnergyLab’s high-authority social media and industry channels.
- Ongoing Alumni Assistance: Lifelong membership in a network of impactful clean energy founders, providing support long after the program ends.
Eligibility Requirements for EnergyLab Scaleup Program 2026
- Academic/Leadership: Startups must demonstrate strong leadership, with a Founder, CEO, or Executive committed to active participation in all sessions and events.
- Study Status (Technology Readiness): The company must be commercialising proven, relevant technology. This program is for scale-ups, not early-stage ideation; the tech must be ready for industry deployment.
- Visa Status (Global Access): There are no specific visa requirements as the program is virtual; however, participants must be able to operate effectively within Australian time zones.
- Program Admission (Market Fit): Startups must possess a business model with high potential for scale, targeting a large market that requires their specific decarbonisation solution.
How to Apply for EnergyLab Scaleup Program 2026 (Step by Step)
- Readiness Review: Ensure your technology is at a commercial stage and you have a leadership member available for the June-October period.
- Submit Application: Complete the online application form before the March 2 deadline, detailing your technology’s impact on the energy sector.
- Selection & Timeline Confirmation: Shortlisted startups will undergo a selection process where the final timeline for the three modules will be confirmed.
- Program Onboarding: Successful applicants will be notified and onboarded for the Program Kickoff in June 2026 to begin the Australian market induction.
Application Deadline: March 2, 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the EnergyLab Scaleup Program 100% virtual?
Yes, the program is designed to be virtual to allow participation from anywhere in the world, though some events like AllEnergy have physical components.
2. Can I apply if my startup is based outside of Australia?
Absolutely. The program encourages international startups looking to expand into the Australian and New Zealand energy markets to apply.
3. What stage of startup is EnergyLab looking for?
They are looking for “Scaleups” with proven, commercialised technology rather than early-stage prototypes or idea-phase projects.
4. How much time commitment is required?
Founders must attend three modules and several public-facing events between June and October 2026, primarily during Australian business hours.
5. Does the program take equity from my startup?
EnergyLab typically operates on a non-equity basis for this specific scaleup program, focusing on facilitating partnerships and investment.
6. What kind of investors participate in the pitching sessions?
The program involves Australia’s leading climate tech investors, venture capitalists, and corporate venture arms focused on energy.
7. Do I have to be in Melbourne for the AllEnergy Conference?
While attendance is highly recommended for the exposure and panels, EnergyLab works with participants to maximize their presence at the event.
8. Will the program help me understand Australian energy regulations?
Yes, the program includes specific briefings from the AER and AEMC to help startups navigate local regulatory requirements.
9. What happens after I graduate from the program?
Graduates join the EnergyLab alumni network, gaining ongoing access to a community of successful clean energy founders and further networking opportunities.
10. Can more than one person from my team participate?
The program requires a CEO or executive lead, but specific team members can often join relevant technical or industry-specific sessions.
