The Engine Launches Ignition Pass to Expand Critical Funding and Resources for Early Tough Tech Startups

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CAMBRIDGE, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sep 9, 2025--

The Engine, a nonprofit incubator and accelerator that supports Tough Tech companies solving the world’s most challenging problems, today announced the launch of the Ignition Pass, a new initiative that provides business support, mentorship and subsidized access to The Engine’s Residency program for up to one year for Tough Tech startups. For these startups in climate, energy, life sciences, advanced computation, and more sectors, this means access to The Engine’s facilities, educational programming, and network for fundraising, government relations, and commercialization. The inaugural award, sponsored by Shell, will provide one exceptional, early-stage startup with comprehensive support to de-risk their technology and accelerate their path to commercial readiness. Qualified startups can apply on The Engine’s website before October 31.

“From decarbonizing industries to unlocking sustainable new energy sources, Tough Tech startups have the potential to change the world. But they face massive hurdles that typical startups rarely have to worry about: accessing CapEx-intensive resources they need to de-risk their technology before securing significant funding,” said Emily Knight, CEO and President of The Engine. “To offset the costs of Residency for promising early-stage teams we partner with external funders and sponsors. With the Ignition Pass, we’re expanding this effort by connecting qualified teams with experts at industry-leading companies like Shell that can accelerate their growth and unlock new commercial opportunities.”

Shell’s contribution to the Ignition Pass, worth $200,000, supports one year at The Engine. Recipients will gain access to mission-critical spaces tailored to their needs — including over 200,000 square feet of BSL-2 wet labs, engineering, and fabrication spaces with over 1000 pieces of specialized equipment. They will also benefit from The Engine’s programming, expert mentorship ecosystem, and mission-focused funding networks. The first awardee will receive Shell-specific support, including access to the company’s experts, operational experience in global energy markets, and introductions to the company’s supply chain and commercialization pathways.

“This Shell-sponsored Ignition Pass is designed to surface high-potential energy technologies at the earliest stages of development,” said Ajay Mehta, Shell Vice President of Research and Innovation. “It showcases the power of open innovation and enables Shell to engage directly with visionary founders at The Engine working on solutions that could help shape the future of energy.” Alongside The Engine, Shell leaders will inform the selection of the Ignition Pass awardee, bringing strategic, applied insight to the process.

Applications are open now through October 31, 2025. More information, including eligibility requirements, FAQ, and the application form can be found here on The Engine’s website.

Since 2017, The Engine has worked alongside more than 800 Tough Tech startups that have collectively raised over $5.5B. In this time, The Engine has observed firsthand the barriers these companies face in translating scientific breakthroughs into commercial realities. As a nonprofit, The Engine invites partners and sponsors to join them in supporting critical programs, infrastructure and mentorship for early-stage Tough Tech companies taking on the world’s most urgent challenges across human health, infrastructure, and the energy transition.

About The Engine
The Engine is a nonprofit incubator and accelerator dedicated to supporting early-stage Tough Tech companies tackling the world's greatest challenges. Founded by MIT in 2016, The Engine provides critical support for Tough Tech companies in the form of specialized lab and fabrication infrastructure, programming and mentorship, and an ecosystem of experts and investors. By bridging the gap between groundbreaking ideas and real-world impact, The Engine plays a crucial role in advancing solutions to complex global issues. For more information, visit engine.xyz.

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KEYWORD: MASSACHUSETTS UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA

INDUSTRY KEYWORD: ENVIRONMENT TECHNOLOGY OTHER TECHNOLOGY ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SUSTAINABILITY PHILANTHROPY GREEN TECHNOLOGY ENERGY FUND RAISING

SOURCE: The Engine

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PUB: 09/09/2025 09:00 AM/DISC: 09/09/2025 08:59 AM

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