2019 Ameren Accelerator Focuses on Smart Cities and Connected Communities

Program designed to attract energy-focused startups and jobs to St. Louis announces 2019 cohort.

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Here are the six startup companies that were selected to participate in the 2019 Ameren Accelerator, an innovative public-private partnership between Ameren Corporation (NYSE: AEE), the University of Missouri System, UMSL Accelerate and Capital Innovators. The technology solutions of the selected companies align with this year’s theme, “Smart Cities – Connected Communities.”

The participating companies are:

  • Allumia (Seattle, Wash.) is a technology platform company that makes it easy for utilities to own and operate energy efficiency assets at customer premises. The platform takes into consideration customer risks and the long-term return on investment for utilities.
  • ClearFlame (Chicago) is developing an alternatively-fueled, drop-in-ready engine for the heavy- duty market, which includes marine, agriculture, transportation, power generation, rail and construction applications.
  • Eden GeoTech (Somerville, Mass.) is developing a water-less and injection-free reservoir stimulation technology, which uses electric energy to change the petro-physical properties of rock formation, create micro-fractures and increase permeability.
  • HeXalayer (Louisville, Ky.) developed a new generation of high-capacity lithium-ion battery technology using innovative carbon material called IML Graphene. The nanomaterials-based technology significantly improves the capacity of energy storage; specifically tested for rechargeable batteries.
  • Ovon Tech (Manchester, England) developed an innovative smart radiator valve that helps increase customer savings while reducing energy waste that is associated with traditional steam and hydronic radiators. The valve features technologies such as energy harvesting and a distributed temperature acquisition system.
  • Hyft Power Solutions (Oakland, Calif.) enables homes, businesses and energy companies to remotely monitor, manage and control their power sources from mobile or web applications.
    • New Selection Process

      These selected companies were announced by Warner Baxter, chairman, president and CEO, Ameren Corp., as part of a “Smart Cities – Connected Communities” roundtable with St. Louis City Mayor Lyda Krewson and University of Missouri System President Mun Y. Choi. The discussion focused on how new energy technologies and smart communities will enhance the position of St. Louis businesses to lead in innovation, entrepreneurship, economic development and attract companies and jobs to the region.

      Dan Lauer moderates a panel with Mayor Krewson, UM system present Choi and Warner Baxter on connected community.

      “Being leaders in energy innovation will allow Ameren to fulfill its mission of powering the quality of life for our customers,” Baxter said. “Through the Ameren Accelerator program, we are investing in and partnering with some of the world’s most innovative startup companies to develop new energy technologies for our customers in Missouri and Illinois. This successful program is delivering positive results and exemplifying our mission – for today and the future.”

      Krewson said she’s excited about the Accelerator programs in St. Louis and proud that the city and Ameren are partnering to ensure that innovative technologies will modernize services and improve the quality of life for local residents.

      “Through programs such as the Ameren Accelerator, smart cities will allow us to improve public safety, make public services more efficient, smarter and equitable, and expand Internet access for all St. Louisans,” Krewson said.

      About Ameren Accelerator

      The Ameren Accelerator is now in its third year. In 2019, more than 430 startups from around the world applied to the program.
      This unique and forward-thinking partnership evaluates, mentors and invests in energy-technology startup companies.

      Each Accelerator participant receives $100,000 in seed capital and works alongside Ameren leaders and Accelerator partners to develop new energy technologies that will make our energy grid smarter, more reliable, resilient and secure. The companies are paired with an UMSL Accelerate intern and based out of UMSL Accelerate and Capital Innovators’ co-working space in Cortex Innovation Community, a 200-acre innovation and technology district in St. Louis.

      At the conclusion of the 12-week program, participants showcase their efforts to potential customers, investors, corporate executives and the general public at Demo Day in November. Ameren may select the most promising projects for ongoing mentoring and engagement beyond the accelerator program.

      “We want the University Missouri System to be the first choice for entrepreneurially-minded students,” Choi said. “The UMSL Accelerate program will provide educational tools, real-world startup and tech experience that will inspire entrepreneurship and innovation in the St. Louis region and across the state. Our mission is to foster a community of thought leaders by providing access to advanced curriculum, mentorship and involvements.”

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