Inerjys Labs — Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I incubate with Inerjys?
The Inerjys Labs incubator gives you Inerjys’ space, labs and business expertise so you can do what you do best — work on your idea. And later, when you need to raise money, you'll be in the perfect spot. We don't only connect you with investors — we are investors.
What are the labs?
The Inerjys Labs include two research lab rooms, several offices, and access to a shared conference room and kitchen. We can tailor the labs to meet your needs. Our building in Old Montreal is huge and open. It has two 4-metre-square skylights, windows galore, and an eclectic fusion of brilliant businesspeople and blooming geniuses.
Am I eligible?
Yes, if you have an innovative technology that relates to renewable energy.
What do you mean by “renewable energy?”
We mean wind, solar, hydro (wave and tidal) and waste-to-energy biomass energy. We also mean energy storage, electricity transmission and distribution, and smart-grid technologies.
What do you mean by “innovative technology?”
We mean something that can change the world. For example, if you have an idea that will increase the efficiency of a solar panel by 0.1 per cent, we’re uninspired. But if your idea can make solar energy cheaper than coal, you have our full attention.
I don’t have a company. Can I apply anyway?
Absolutely. Entrepreneurs come in all shapes and sizes. You might be an academic trying to commercialize your research. You might be working out of a garage. You might be heading an established company that could benefit from the Labs program. We’re open to anything. If you bring passion and creativity to your energy ideas, we want to hear from you.
I’m not from Montreal. Can I still apply?
Of course. We give preference to applicants from Quebec and Canada, but we welcome anybody. If you’re not from the neighbourhood, we’ll proudly show you where to eat, ride your bicycle and spend your weekends in Montreal.
How will the applications be rated?
Our experienced team of investors and energy experts will rank your idea in several ways: its feasibility, how well it can scale to utilities, its originality, its potential and the experience of you and your team members.
How many companies are in the incubator?
We plan to shelter anywhere between two and six companies at a time, depending on how much space they take and how many great applications we receive.
Does the Labs program include funding?
Inerjys Labs provides in-kind services valued at $15,000. On top of that, we may offer funds for equipment and travel, and we may offer $15,000 in additional funding. We’re only promising in-kind services — we’ll consider the rest on a case-by-case basis.
Can I stay in the labs forever?
The Inerjys Labs program lasts for six months. We may invite companies to stay longer.
When’s my deadline?
The Labs program accepts applicants on a rolling basis, based on available space. We suggest you apply ASAP.
How long will Inerjys take to get back to me?
We won’t take long. If we’re interested in your idea, we’ll contact you and arrange a conference call.