The rapidly evolving energy sector is set to be revolutionized by innovative startups at the SPARK VIRGINIA Pitch Competition. Hosted by the Dominion Energy Innovation Center (DEIC) during the Energy Tech 2025 conference on March 6, the competition provides a platform for startups and university researchers with groundbreaking climate, energy, or utility-focused technologies. SPARK VIRGINIA offers non-dilutive funding to founders, with a grand prize of $7,500 and a runner-up prize of $2,500. But the benefits extend beyond financial support; it’s also a chance to showcase early-stage commercialization technologies to a panel of industry professionals. Finalists will also receive a complimentary ticket to the full Energy Tech 2025 conference, offering key networking opportunities and industry insights. This competition is an invaluable opportunity for those ready to launch their novel technologies in utilities, energy, or climate within the next 12 to 24 months.
About SPARK VIRGINIA
The energy sector is evolving rapidly, and innovative startups are at the forefront of shaping a more sustainable future. For those with groundbreaking climate, energy, or utility-focused technologies, a prime opportunity awaits at the SPARK VIRGINIA pitch competition, hosted by the Dominion Energy Innovation Center (DEIC) during the Energy Tech 2025 conference.
Taking place March 6 at the Science Museum of Virginia, Energy Tech 2025 is a premier event co-hosted by Dominion Energy and Simple Thread, bringing together thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and industry experts in the energy, climate, and sustainability space. As part of this high-profile gathering, SPARK VIRGINIA will spotlight startups and university researchers poised to drive the future of clean energy.
A Stage for Game-Changing Startups
SPARK VIRGINIA offers participants a chance to compete for non-dilutive funding, giving founders critical financial support to scale their innovations. The stakes?
- $7,500 Grand Prize
- $2,500 Runner-Up Prize
But the competition is about more than just the prize money—it’s an unparalleled opportunity to showcase early-stage commercialization technologies in front of a distinguished panel of industry professionals from both the public and private sectors.
What Finalists Receive
Finalists selected for SPARK VIRGINIA will get:
- A 10-minute spotlight on stage (5-minute pitch + 5-minute Q&A) to present their solution to an expert panel.
- A complimentary ticket to the full Energy Tech 2025 conference, giving them access to key networking opportunities, industry insights, and cutting-edge discussions.
Who Should Apply?
This competition is designed for startups and university researchers developing novel technologies in utilities, energy, or climate that are either in early commercialization or ready to launch within the next 12–24 months.
In an era where climate and clean energy grants are increasingly difficult to secure, SPARK VIRGINIA provides a rare and valuable funding opportunity to help these innovations break into the market.
Don’t miss the chance to elevate your startup and gain exposure in front of industry leaders!
Event Date: March 6, 2025
Location: Science Museum of Virginia
Apply here: SPARK VIRGINIA Application
Learn more: Energy Tech 2025 Conference
Innovation waits for no one—will your startup take center stage?
Question & Answer
What is the SPARK VIRGINIA Pitch Competition?
The SPARK VIRGINIA Pitch Competition is an event hosted by the Dominion Energy Innovation Center (DEIC) during the Energy Tech 2025 conference. It provides a platform for startups and university researchers with innovative technologies in the energy, climate, or utility sectors.
What are the prizes offered at SPARK VIRGINIA?
SPARK VIRGINIA offers a grand prize of $7,500 and a runner-up prize of $2,500 to the winners of the competition.
What benefits do finalists of SPARK VIRGINIA receive?
Finalists of SPARK VIRGINIA receive a 10-minute spotlight on stage to present their solution to an expert panel, along with a complimentary ticket to the full Energy Tech 2025 conference for networking opportunities and industry insights.
Who should apply for the SPARK VIRGINIA Pitch Competition?
The competition is designed for startups and university researchers developing novel technologies in utilities, energy, or climate that are either in early commercialization or ready to launch within the next 12-24 months.
