Breakthrough Energy Fellows Cohort 7: Innovator Fellowship 2027

Breakthrough Energy Fellows is taking concept papers for the Innovator Fellowship in its 2027 Cohort 7. The program is part of Breakthrough Energy Discovery, the early stage arm of Breakthrough Energy, and it backs scientists and engineers who want to turn a new climate technology into a company.

Innovator Fellows typically receive up to $500,000 in a SAFE for research and development costs such as lab and office space, equipment, staff and technical consultants. They also get project management from the program team, a curriculum with one to one mentoring, and help with communications, policy, legal questions, techno economics and hiring.

The fellowship is meant for very early stage climate companies that need technical risk reduction. Successful applicants usually work at technology readiness level 1 to 4, show that their technology could cut or capture at least 500 million tons of greenhouse gases a year at scale, and have raised less than $2M in dilutive funding. Grant funding does not count toward that limit. The program is global and accepts applications from any country, with all communication in English.

The first step is a concept paper with some preliminary information, accepted through 2 November 2026. Selected concept papers are asked for a full application, and the strongest full applications are invited to a deep dive interview. Fellows are selected in mid 2027 and the cohort begins in September 2027.

The fellowship is a full time, one year commitment, followed by three months of close out and evaluation. Fellows should not hold other jobs, consulting work or academic enrollment outside their startup, and should expect 10 to 15 hours a month of program activities. Reviewers score technical innovation and feasibility, breakthrough potential and the project plan, and the program says it wants step change technologies rather than small improvements.

Quick answers

How much does it pay?

Up to $500,000 in a SAFE. It is an investment in exchange for equity.

When is the deadline?

The deadline is 2 November 2026.

Who can apply?

Very early stage climate technology teams at technology readiness level 1 to 4, typically with less than $2M raised in dilutive funding, legally incorporated before the program starts in September 2027. Open to applicants from around the world. Applicants from anywhere in the world can enter, unless the eligibility rules say otherwise.

How do I apply?

Through the official page at apply.breakthroughenergy.org. The link is at the top of this page.

Do I have to move to join the fellowship?

No. Fellows do not have to relocate, but they may meet the cohort in person from time to time, and travel costs can be covered.

Can I apply before I form a company?

Yes. A company is not needed to apply, but selected Innovator Fellows must incorporate before the program starts in September 2027.

Can a team apply together?

Yes. Co founders should send one application per team.