The Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator (IN2) is an energy technology program funded by Wells Fargo & Company and coadministered by NREL. Through its Emerging Tech track, IN2 supports startups developing innovations across the built environment and infrastructure sectors, helping to validate, refine, and advance their solutions.
Selected startups receive up to $250,000 in nondilutive funding in the form of hands-on technical assistance from NREL’s world-class scientists, providing both credibility and a faster path to market.
How To Apply
Startups are referred to IN2 by Channel Partners and evaluated by NREL researchers as well as the Wells Fargo and Executive Advisory Boards.
For application inquiries or introductions to Channel Partners, email IN2@nrel.gov.
Benefits of Participation
IN2 works with NREL to test and improve startup technologies, helping founders reduce risk and attract investors. Support may include:
- Real-world performance testing
- Product design and development
- Long-term durability and life cycle assessments
- Systems testing for real-world environments
- Impact analysis, including cost and environmental benefits.
June 26, 2025 - Funded by the Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator (IN2), Transaera began work with NREL to validate its advanced dehumidification system that addresses the energy-intensive nature of air conditioning in humid climates. (Photo by Josh Bauer / NREL)Enabling Innovation Through a Connected Ecosystem
IN2 supports innovation through a national ecosystem of startups, investors, industry adopters, and referrers. This includes Channel Partners and NREL’s Investor Advisory Board, who refer high-potential startups and share insights on emerging trends.
Each startup is part of a themed IN2 cohort aligned with market demand and research insights. These themes also inform the Scalable Tech track—a parallel IN2 effort that assists corporations and municipalities in adopting validated solutions. Participation in the Emerging Tech track makes a startup more visible to scalable adopters who are considering technologies for real-world deployment.