Everett Campus To Host CleanTech Accelerator

Source: MyEverettNews.com, Jan 5 2020

Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers announced a collaborative partnership to create the state’s first physical CleanTech Accelerator location in partnership with the Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF), the Clean Tech Alliance, and Soundview Innovation Campus.

“Snohomish County is an emerging leader in clean tech for the State of Washington. By working with private partners and non-profits, this partnership is a strong step forward in the creation of the first physical accelerator space for our state. It will provide the type of support and assistance needed to help entrepreneurs and businesses succeed,” said County Executive Dave Somers. “I’ve made it a priority to encourage innovation and the diversification of our economy, particularly with this kind of job-creating opportunity.”

With a pledge of a space donation by Soundview Innovation Campus and generous support from the Toyota Mobility Foundation this year, the Accelerator will seek opportunities to utilize the Soundview Innovation Campus Collaboration Center in Everett in the delivery of its program supporting cleantech startups that have technical expertise but require support in business creation. Building on the foundation of the CleanTech Alliance and an existing virtual CleanTech Accelerator, this space will offer physical tools, collaboration zones and events for early stage entrepreneurs within the county and region.

“As a company known for its innovation, the Toyota Mobility Foundation is proud to support and be a partner in the early stage of establishing the first physical cleantech accelerator space in the State of Washington, and we look forward to the great innovation that will come,” said Ryan Klem, Toyota Mobility Foundation Director of Programs and Partnerships. This year, TMF provided an initial grant for the Cascadia CleanTech Accelerator to target and recruit mobility focused startups into the virtual program. This new collaborative space will also help to attract entrepreneurs and innovators solving problems in the mobility and transportation sectors.

“With the State of Washington leading the pack in cleantech innovation, the establishment of this accelerator space in Snohomish County helps advance our expanding energy and sustainability sectors. I applaud the private sector and government partners who are working to make this vision a reality,” said J. Thomas Ranken, President/CEO of CleanTech Alliance.

“Soundview truly has a unique space and it is grounded in the drive for new innovation. This is the foundation of our company’s vision. We see this center as a hub for innovation and collaboration for the county and the region. We are excited by the possibilities and that we are able to be a partner in helping many entrepreneurs and companies take their ideas to the next step and beyond,” said Ali Nathoo of Soundview.
“I appreciate the leadership of Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers and our private sector partners to boost the state’s economy and protect our environment,” said Washington Governor Jay Inslee. “This type of work will help us build a sustainable economy for generations to come.”

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