Description

• LACI’s flagship Incubation Program targets pre-seed and seed-stage startups (cleantech ventures with a working prototype or MVP and early traction). 
  
  
• The program is structured over ~2 years, with an intensive 6-month curriculum followed by roadmap execution focused on fundraising, product development, pilot deployment, and market access. 
  
  
• LACI also offers related pathways such as Market Access Programs and Innovators Program for companies at different stages of growth within the climate tech ecosystem. 
  
  

• As part of its incubation engagement, LACI typically takes a small equity stake (historically ~1.5%–3% in the form of a warrant) in participating startups at entry — with earn-back provisions tied to impact milestones and other incentives. 
  
  
• This equity is negotiated as part of the incubator support and mission alignment, rather than a one-size-fits-all corporate VC model.
  
  

• LACI founders can access additional funding through LACI Impact Funds (e.g., Impact Fund I & II) — independent, founder-friendly venture vehicles that invest in portfolio companies alongside lead investors. 
  
  
• The LACI Cleantech Debt Fund provides non-dilutive bridge financing and loans (up to ~$500K) for revenue-producing startups. 
  
  

• Equity Taken: Yes — LACI takes a small warrant equity stake (~1.5%–3%) as part of the incubation program, with incentives and earn-back options. 
  
  
• Equity Via Impact Funds: LACI’s Impact Fund invests separately, with equity terms determined per investment alongside lead investors (not automatically taken by the incubator itself). 
  
  
• Debt Financing: The Debt Fund offers loans without giving up equity — designed to be founder-friendly and supportive of growth. 
  
  

• Founders apply to specific LACI programs (e.g., Incubation Program) via online application portals during open intake windows — typically advertised through LACI’s site and startup ecosystem channels. 
  
  

• Programs run in cohorts (e.g., Incubation Cohort 12) with competitive selection based on technology readiness, market potential, and cleantech impact focus. 
  
  

Eligibility

• Zero-Emissions Transportation (e.g., EV infrastructure, freight electrification)
  
  
• Clean Energy & Grid Modernization
  
  
• Smart & Sustainable Cities (water, circular economy, waste, mobility) 
  
  

• Pre-Seed to Early Growth: Startup with prototype (TRL 4+) and operations, ideally with a presence or ability to engage in Southern California ecosystem activities. 
  
  

• Based in Los Angeles, California (USA) — while startups from outside regions may participate if aligned with program structures and collaborations. 
  
  

• Teams with cleantech solutions and strong technical, commercial, and mission focus. Startups ideally demonstrate impact orientation and scalability. 
  
  

Process

What an Applicant can Obtain

• Structured Curriculum: Business and technical workshops, pitch guidance, go-to-market, and investor readiness. 
  
  
• Dedicated Advisors & EIRs: One-on-one mentorship and strategic coaching from experienced executives. 
  
  

• Eligibility for impact investing through LACI Impact Funds and non-dilutive loans via the Debt Fund. 
  
  
• Pilot Funding: Support and capital ($50K–$150K) to design and deploy early pilots with municipal and utility partners. 
  
  

• Access to $160K+ worth of services and perks including cloud credits, legal, business services, and deep discounts on prototype and coworking spaces. 
  
  

• Strong ecosystem access: Introductions to investors, utilities, government, corporations, and sustainability stakeholders. 
  
  
• Demo & Pitch Platforms: Opportunities to present to investors, partners, and public agencies to accelerate capital raises. 
  
  

• LACI has helped hundreds of cleantech companies raise hundreds of millions in follow-on capital, create jobs, and generate significant revenue and economic value.