Apply to the CDL program

For founders developing transformational technologies for the energy industry.

The Energy Stream at CDL-Rockies operates from the epicenter of the energy industry in Canada and brings together experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and leading scientists active in the energy sector.

CDL-Rockies is seeking technologies focused on accelerating the transition and diversification of energy systems and the optimization of existing resource operations.

Those startups accepted into the CDL program will attend five objective-setting sessions between October and June. Founders will work with CDL mentors to set objectives, prioritize time and resources, raise capital, and engage with experts working on the frontiers of research.

There are no fees for participation and CDL does not take any equity. Learn more about the CDL program.

Who Should Apply?

The Energy Stream is best suited to coachable startups and research teams driving towards innovative and novel solutions with the potential for significant market impact. The program is tailored towards early-stage companies (early venture or growth); however, startups at all levels of maturity will be considered.

Example Innovation Areas

    • Resource extraction optimization
    • Energy storage (batteries, thermal storage, mechanical storage)
    • Fuel cells
    • Energy efficiency 
    • Bioenergy
    • Clean hydrogen
    • Carbon capture utilization and storage
    • Smart grids and smart mobility

To learn more about the CDL Energy stream and how it can benefit your venture, contact Amelie Schumacher, CDL-Rockies’ Stream Manager.

Our Mentors

CDL mentors include accomplished entrepreneurs, experienced operators, active angel and venture investors, world-leading scientists, engineers, and economists. Mentors meet with Founders every eight weeks to help founders set objectives over the program’s nine-month duration.

Companies accepted to the CDL Energy Stream benefit from advice from scientists and economists who are world-leading experts on energy technologies and the energy industry. These experts meet with companies periodically to evaluate their technologies, suggest improvements, and explore formal advising engagements.

Apply to the CDL program

Amelie Schumacher
Stream Manager, CDL-Rockies
amelie.schumacher@creativedestructionlab.com

“CDL was like rocket fuel, where the mentors helped us expand the vision for our company to a broader value proposition that was transformational. Mentors helped us finalize the Minimum Viable Product of our software in the most effective way possible, and we were connected to several customers that facilitated the smooth launch of our product into the market.”

Liz O'Connell

President & Co-Founder, Arolytics | CDL-Rockies Energy 2020/21

“CDL’s business mentorship pushed us to come up with a product that could be commercialized and scalable. Through CDL we were able to raise our first external fundraising round so we could hire the best talent in AI to scale rapidly. The real value has come from the mentorship, the conversations you have with the investors, and the value they bring to the table.”

Grant Sanden

CEO, Enersoft | CDL-Rockies Energy 2019/20

“CDL brings leading industry experts in one room, creating the opportunity to talk to them in one afternoon instead of many separate meetings. The momentum from the CDL program and fellows allowed us to raise $1 million in equity within six weeks.”

John Van Pol

Co-Founder & CEO, Ingu Solutions Inc. | CDL-Rockies Energy 2018/29

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