Snam S.p.A. (Milan, Italy) has launched HyAccelerator, the first corporate global-scale startup acceleration program focused on hydrogen.
The programmed kicked off with the first call for startups, dedicated to players active along the entire hydrogen value chain, from transportation to storage and end uses.
Cosma Panzacchi, Executive Vice President Hydrogen at Snam said, ‘HyAccelerator is aimed at boosting the development of the hydrogen ecosystem by focusing on the most promising technologies and facilitating their entry into the market. Through this initiative, Snam will come into contact with the most innovative startups in the sector at a global level, strengthening its role as an enabler of the hydrogen supply chain and energy transition’.
The startups selected after the calls will have access to an acceleration process lasting between four and six months, with research and development support, as well as mentoring, networking and technology testing. These activities will also be able to leverage on the network of the Hydrogen Innovation Center opened by Snam in partnership with universities and research centers.
At the end of the program, the startups will conduct feasibility studies with Snam for future hydrogen pilot projects. Snam aims at exploring and supporting technologies with the greatest potential to accelerate the development of hydrogen and contribute to efforts to decarbonise the economic system, in line with national and international climate targets.
HyAccelerator is part of Snam’s innovation strategy and the startup application and selection process will be carried out in line with Snaminnova, the company’s Open Innovation platform.