Clean-energy entrepreneurs can apply for next 76West round through April 15

Winners of the third round of the 76West clean-energy competition pose with Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul at the award ceremony held last fall in Binghamton. The state is accepting applications for the fourth round of the competition through April 15 at 5 p.m. (PHOTO CREDIT: NYSERDA Twitter page)

The fourth round of New York State’s 76West clean-energy competition is accepting applications through April 15 at 5 p.m. The 76West contest focuses on growing entrepreneurs and attracting resources from the U.S. and around the world to build clean-energy businesses and create jobs in Southern Tier region of New York, according to NYSERDA. The competition annually […]

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The fourth round of New York State’s 76West clean-energy competition is accepting applications through April 15 at 5 p.m.

The 76West contest focuses on growing entrepreneurs and attracting resources from the U.S. and around the world to build clean-energy businesses and create jobs in Southern Tier region of New York, according to NYSERDA. The competition annually offers $2.5 million in prize money, including a $1 million top prize.

The competition seeks to further develop the regional community of clean-energy technology innovators, industry experts, educators, and investors, as well as help startups get early users for their technologies, NYSERDA says.

Competition details are available on the NYSERDA website at: https://www.nyserda.ny.gov/All-Programs/Programs/76west/Competition-Details.

Rochester–based EkoStinger captured the $1 million grand prize in the third round of the 76West clean-energy competition, with the awards ceremony held last September in Binghamton. EkoStinger manufactures under-trailer aerodynamic devices for tractor trailers that reduce emissions and save fuel.

EkoStinger in February opened a new manufacturing plant at the Elmira Corning Regional Airport in Horseheads. The company leased an 8,000-square-foot facility at the airport, purchased new equipment from local vendors, and hired six new employees, the state said.

EkoStinger is using the facility to increase production to an expected 8,000 units a year from 2,000 now. That should allow it to expand its customer base, which currently includes Raymour & Flanigan, Bridgestone Corp., Nestle, Ryder, Penske, and Hyundai.

Journal Staff: