In its third year, the program will focus on accelerating localized, environment-related adaptation solutions to enhance community resilience and readiness
February 12, 2025 – 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Los Angeles, CA.—Larta Institute, a nonprofit organization accelerating innovation and entrepreneurship, has opened a call for applicants to its 2025 Venture Fellows program. This year, the program will center on addressing the unique weather-driven challenges faced by Los Angeles, where the organization is based. Larta has published newly reshaped challenge areas driven by the needs of the regional community. Applications are now open and accepting all U.S. based entrepreneurs through March 20, 2025.
“Given the accelerating pace of weather-related events, our communities need innovative solutions which enhance resilience and adaptation to these recurring and predictable crises,” said Rohit Shukla, Founder and CEO of Larta Institute. “This year’s program focuses on equipping innovators with the resources to combat environmental issues experienced by Los Angeles, from extreme heat to water access and air quality. Such innovations have nationwide value and are a tribute to the ingenuity and adaptability of entrepreneurs.”
Areas of Particular Interest for 2025
The Venture Fellows program will tackle three new challenge areas designed to address critical needs in Los Angeles:
- Weather-Resilient Urban Infrastructure: Innovations like fire-resilient building materials, green infrastructure, and innovative cooling systems to help enhance weather resilience and strengthen urban infrastructure.
- Clean Air Solutions: Air quality monitoring, filtration systems, and wildfire smoke resilience including in vulnerable neighborhoods.
- Water Conservation & Access: Technologies improving water efficiency, stormwater capture, and equitable access in communities impacted by drought and aging infrastructure.
Program Highlights & Benefits
- No cost, no equity support to develop community-based environmental solutions.
- Opportunity to apply for up to $25,000 in pilot costs for solution validation during the active cohort period.
- Access to 1:1 mentoring, group sessions, and a cohort-based learning hub.
- Expert-led sessions on regulatory compliance and market entry strategies.
- Support with networking to assist the development of minimum viable products and/or pilot projects in Los Angeles communities.
- Guidance to secure non-dilutive funding and connections to investors and partners through Larta’s Ecosystem Action Network (EAN).
The program is currently supported by Wells Fargo, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, Edison International, and SoCalGas.
23 Fellows have graduated from the Venture Fellows program since its inception in 2023.
Serena Allen CEO & Founder of Airvitalize Innovations, a member of the 2024 cohort, added, “Throughout the Venture Fellows program the Larta team advocated for us within the greater Los Angeles ecosystem. The team was providing relevant programming while simultaneously connecting us with mentors and decision-makers across the region. We are deeply grateful for Larta’s support and highly recommend this opportunity. ”
Learn more and apply at Larta.org/Venture-Fellows
About Larta Institute
Larta Institute, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, accelerates science and technology innovation for a sustainable planet. Since 1993, Larta has supported over 6,500 startups, helping them secure more than $7 billion in external funding. Visit Larta.org to learn more.
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