Startup PITCH & SHOWCASE
Accelerating the adoption of grid edge technologies requires empowering innovative solutions capable of contributing to a more flexible, sustainable, and reliable electricity grid.
The Startup Pitch & Showcase at the NEW! IEEE PES Grid Edge Technologies Conference & Exposition will feature startups dedicated to advancing the next generation decentralized, distributed, and transactive power grid. There will be a showcase that features these forward thinking solutions at the “startup alley” located on the Exhibition Floor and pitch from the Innovation Stage to hundreds of influential participants representing various aspects of the power and energy economy. We are excited to recognize the great work being done in this area during the closing ceremony on April 13, 2023.
- Applications are now open! Complete the form below to apply.
- Application to close January 30, 2023
- Featured startups announced by February 15, 2023
Additional Benefits
In addition to receiving a recognition plaque, selected startups will also receive the following benefits:
- Opportunity to present on the Startup Stage located at the center of the Exhibit Hall during a “3-minute Lightning Speed Pitch” in front of hundreds of VCs, utilities and attendees.
- Opportunity to secure a showcase booth space in the “Startup Alley Area” of the Exhibit Hall for a discounted price of $2,000 (regular price is $3,200) which includes:
- 10′ x 10′ Exhibit space for all two days of exhibition (April 12-13, 2023)
- 2 Full access registrations (April 11-13, 2023)
- Online company listing to include company logo, description, and product categories
- Unlimited guest discounted registration passes at 30% off to invite clients and guests
- Access to the Press List
- Access to the VC List
BEcome a STARTUP STAGE Supporter
Don’t miss this opportunity to support innovative solutions shaping the future of the grid.
Startup Stage – Basic Supporter $6,000
Supporters Receive:
- 4 Complementary Full Conference Registrations
- Firm Name on conference Brochure & Website
- Access to ALL Startup Applications
Startup Stage – Premium supporter $18,000
Premium Supporters Receive:
- 6 Complementary Full Conference Registrations
- Firm Name on conference Brochure & Website
- Access to ALL Startup Applications
- Firm Name & Logo on a Banner at Innovation Stage Area
- 30-min Stage Presentation
- VIP Dinner & Reception with Utility/Industry Executives
- Private Meeting Room w/coffee & refreshment provided (Wed. & Thurs.)
Submission application
Pitch Showcase Overview
To be considered for the showcase, all ventures must be dedicated toward advancing the next generation power grid. Startups must be Pre-Seed/Seed stage for-profit ventures and have fewer than 50 FTEs.
- Round I: 25 startups will be selected to participate in Round I pitch competition (3 minutes per pitch, no Q&A)
- Round II: 5 finalists will be selected to participate in Round II pitch competition (10 minutes per pitch, 5 minutes for Q&A)
- Competition Winners: Cash prize and the chance to participate in the 2023 Free Electron Program
Investor Support Packages
Supporter Rights
Tier III
Tier II
Tier I
Conference Attendance



Firm Name on Conference Brochure & Website



Access to ALL Startup Applications



Pitch Competition Judge & Investor Panel



Dinner & Reception with Select Industry Executives



Schedule of Events
Wednesday, April 12
10:00am – 11:00am
Coffee & Networking session
11:00am – 11:05am
Welcome Remarks
11:05am – 11:30am
Keynote Speaker
11:30am – 12:30pm
Round I Pitches (Part I)
12:30pm – 1:30pm
Break for Lunch
1:30pm – 3:00pm
Round I Pitches (Part II)
3:00pm – 4:30pm
Coffee Break (Judges Deliberate)
4:30pm – 5:00pm
Judges Announce Top 5 Finalists
Thursday, April 13
10:00am – 11:00am
Venture Panel
11:00am – 12:30pm
Round II Pitch Competition (Top 5 Finalists)
12:30pm – 1:30pm
Lunch Break
1:30pm – 3:00pm
Startup / Investor 1:1’s (Judges Deliberate)
3:00pm – 3:30pm
Judges Announce Winners