New Accelerator Launches to Support Battery Technology Startups in Binghamton

The ChargeUp Accelerator, a new initiative based in Binghamton, has opened applications for its six-month program aimed at fostering innovation in battery technology. This program, designed to support early-stage startups, is part of the broader New Energy New York coalition's efforts to position Upstate New York as a hub for battery technology advancements.

Program Structure and Eligibility

The ChargeUp Accelerator will accept four early-stage battery startups into its program, which offers over 200 hours of educational support. The curriculum includes training on business development and due diligence, equipping startups with the necessary skills to advance their technologies and engage with industry partners. To qualify for the program, startups must be incorporated, have at least two employees, and possess a proven core technology, preferably in the form of a working prototype.

The program is structured to accommodate both remote and in-person participation, with certain weeks dedicated to face-to-face interactions. This hybrid model reflects a growing trend in accelerator programs, providing flexibility while ensuring that participants can engage deeply with the resources and networks available through the program.

Application and Selection Process

Applications for Cohort 3 of the ChargeUp Accelerator opened on November 6, 2025, and will remain open until February 23. Interested startups are encouraged to participate in virtual information sessions scheduled for January 25 and February 8. The program will officially begin on April 14, 2026, and run until September 2026, providing a comprehensive six-month engagement for selected startups.

The ChargeUp program is hosted at the Koffman Southern Tier Incubator, an environment that has fostered the development of 106 startups to date. This initiative is supported by Binghamton University, which leads the New Energy New York initiative, underscoring the region's commitment to advancing battery technology and energy storage innovation.

Regional and Industry Impact

The ChargeUp Accelerator aims to connect participating startups with regional resources and supply chain partners, strengthening their capacity to innovate and compete in the battery technology sector. By focusing on business development and market readiness, the program seeks to enhance the competitiveness of U.S.-based battery technology startups on a global scale.

Upstate New York's designation as a battery technology hub is a strategic move to bolster the region's energy storage capabilities and attract investment. The presence of the Battery-NY pilot prototyping center further supports this vision, providing startups with access to cutting-edge facilities and expertise.

Supporting a Tradition of Innovation

The ChargeUp Accelerator is part of a broader trend where universities and incubators play a crucial role in supporting entrepreneurship and innovation. Since the 1990s, universities have increasingly supported student entrepreneurship, with a notable expansion in the 2010s to include more formalized accelerator programs. These university-affiliated initiatives often differ from traditional accelerators by focusing on market-ready innovations emerging directly from academic research.

By fostering collaboration between academia and industry, the ChargeUp Accelerator leverages the strengths of both sectors to drive advancements in battery technology. This collaboration is essential for maintaining the U.S.'s competitive edge in the rapidly evolving field of energy storage solutions.

"The ChargeUp Accelerator represents a significant step forward for battery technology startups, providing them with the resources and connections needed to succeed in a competitive market," said a spokesperson for the New Energy New York coalition.

As the ChargeUp Accelerator prepares to launch its third cohort, the program continues to build on the successes of previous participants like Ateios Systems and Fermi Energy. By nurturing the next generation of battery technology innovators, the accelerator is poised to make a lasting impact on the industry and contribute to the advancement of energy solutions globally.