Chevron ENGINE (Engineering and Innovation Excellence Center) and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) have launched the Chevron-IITM Energy Technology Incubation Programme to support innovators, student teams, researchers and social entrepreneurs developing technology-led solutions for the energy sector.
The programme will focus on early-stage innovations addressing energy infrastructure, carbon utilisation, circular economy and resource efficiency challenges.
Support for early-stage innovators
Through the IIT Madras innovation ecosystem, selected teams will receive support based on their stage of development. This will include assistance with prototype development, business model validation, incubation, grants, mentorship and market readiness.
Chevron India Country Head Dr Akshay Sahnisaid the initiative brings together India’s engineering and technology talent with Chevron’s global resources and expertise to address current and future energy challenges.
“Through this partnership with IIT Madras, we are extending that idea into India’s innovation ecosystem by supporting student teams, researchers and social entrepreneurs developing practical solutions for the energy sector,” he said.
IIT Madras Dean (Alumni and Corporate Relations), Prof. Ashwin Mahalingam, said the programme would provide innovators with access to mentorship, technical expertise and the institute’s innovation ecosystem to help translate ideas into practical solutions.
Industry and academic expertise
Under the programme, Chevron will contribute industry expertise, technical mentorship and employee volunteering, besides providing opportunities for engagement between its experts and innovators.
IIT Madras will provide access to its research, innovation and incubation ecosystem, enabling entrepreneurs to develop, test and scale energy technologies.
The initiative builds on Chevron’s ongoing engagement with IIT Madras and its focus on innovation, education and capacity building through partnerships.
The programme is aimed at strengthening the innovation ecosystem for energy technologies while supporting the development of entrepreneurs and technology leaders working on solutions for the sector.