Plug and Play AI in Energy Innovation Challenge

The Challenge

With the world’s population projected to hit 10 billion by 2050, the demand for energy will surge, intensifying the need for sustainable energy solutions. This surge comes amid a transformative era in the energy sector, driven by the exponential growth of artificial intelligence, demanding a re-evaluation of how we use and manage energy resources.

Alberta, Canada, renowned for its abundance of natural resources and commitment to driving technology and innovation, is at the epicentre of this evolution. The intersection of AI and energy presents an unprecedented opportunity to not only boost the provincial economy but also champion global initiatives toward a sustainable future.

In partnership with Alberta Innovates, Plug and Play is launching an Innovation Challenge focused on AI in the energy sector. This challenge seeks to source top technology startups worldwide, inviting them to showcase their cutting-edge artificial intelligence solutions that are poised to address critical challenges in the energy sector.

Use-Cases of AI in Energy

• Energy Asset Utilization Software
• Risk Forecasting
• Digital Twins and AI Copilots
• R&D Acceleration
• Compliance Automation
• Wastewater Treatment
• Waste Identification and Sorting
• Modeling New Molecules
• Material and Mineral Traceability
• Data Cleanup and Centralization

Selection Criteria

• Open to startups ranging from Pre-Seed to Series A fundraising stages
• Startups must present novel technology that is directly applicable to the energy industry
• Technology must leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, or innovation
• Startups must have a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) demonstrating the core functionality of their technology
• Startups should be prepared for pilot projects or commercial agreements, demonstrating readiness to deploy and scale their technology

Challenge Timeline

• Portal Launch Date: Mar 25, 2024
• Applications Close: Apr 20, 2024
• Top 20 Solutions Shortlisted: Apr 29, 2024
• Top 10 Solutions Shortlisted: May 6, 2024
• Top 5 Invited to Pitch at Inventures: May 13, 2024
• Pitch Day: May 30, 2024

Prizes

• $10,000 Cash prize
• Opportunity to present to the Plug and Play Ventures team and be considered for a Plug and Play investment of up to $500,000
• 1:1 meeting with Plug and Play CEO, Saeed Amidi, a seasoned investor and executive with 30 years experience in founding, operating, and growing successful companies
• Two exclusive tickets to the Plug and Play Silicon Valley Summit in November 2024
• A guaranteed spot in the Plug and Play Sustainability Accelerator Program in Fall 2024
• Personalized 1:1 mentorship sessions with world-class mentors from the Plug and Play network

Benefits

• Startup pitch opportunity at Inventures 2024 to an audience of corporations, investors, and government.
• Marketing and promotional exposure across Plug and Play’s influential social media platforms.
• Access to Plug and Play’s upcoming events, expanding your network and potential partnerships.
• 1:1 pitch polishing session led by the Plug and Play Ventures Team ahead of Inventures 2024.

Applications are now closed.

Join us at Inventures 2024 as our exciting finalists pitch for top prize!