Commercialization Assistance Program
The NREL Commercialization Assistance Program (NCAP) helps emerging companies overcome technical barriers to commercializing clean energy technology. The program specifically helps renewable energy and energy efficiency companies by providing free assistance or information to help small businesses with specific technology questions or needs. You can download a fact sheet about the Commercialization Assistance Program for more information.
Examples of assistance include short term access to technical expertise and facilities such as:
- Test and measurement of systems or components
- Analytical testing of materials
- Insights on existing or emerging technologies
- Assistance in addressing technological performance and market analysis
- Addressing general technology problems.
Additionally, businesses that use NCAP can get a royalty-free, nonexclusive license for any inventions made during the course of technology assistance. Also, intellectual property associated with a pre-existing product or invention remains the property of the business.
NREL is prohibited from providing assistance that is readily available in the private sector.
"Pooling" of technology assistance by more than one firm to develop a single product is prohibited.
Eligibility Requirements
Renewable energy and energy efficiency businesses in the United States that have fewer than 500 employees are eligible for this program. The requested technology assistance must fit the scope of the program and NREL's competencies such as talent, facilities, expertise, and availability.
If your request for assistance is accepted, a technical specialist will be assigned to work on your project for up to one staff-week, but not to exceed 40 hours. Firms are eligible once per fiscal year, Oct. 1 – Sept. 30.
Application Process
If your renewable energy or energy efficiency technology-based business could benefit from the expertise and knowledge of NREL's scientists and engineers, follow these easy steps:
- Contact Niccolo Aieta, 303-275-4152, at NREL's Commercialization and Technology Transfer office to ensure your company's eligibility.
- If eligible, you will complete a one-page request form.
- NREL will quickly review the request and may contact you for additional information.
- If NREL has the resources, capabilities, and availability to help, an agreement will be signed by both parties before work begins.
Apply any time, but requests are funded on a first-come, first served basis.
Contact
For more information contact, Niccolo Aieta, 303-275-4152.
