Energy Innovation Program Manager

To apply, send a resume and an introductory email addressing the questions below to:
Nina Axelson – nina

Position Title:

Energy Innovation Program Manager

Application Questions (please answer in your application email):

• What compelled you to apply for this job?
• What skill should we know about that might not stand out in your resume?

Job Type: Full-Time

As the Grid Catalyst Program Manager, you will play a crucial role in growing the Minnesota energy innovation ecosystem. This role seeks a dynamic professional to manage and execute programs focused on startups and emerging technologies. A compelling candidate will have relevant experience in the energy sector, as well as in program development and management, and the ability to develop and maintain strategic partnerships.

This role requires a blend of communication and facilitation skills, with strong business acumen.

• Manage our current Demonstration Cohort Program, which includes two active cohorts (2025 and 2026).
• Collaborate with the team to build our future startup programming, which will include demonstrations, as well as other initiatives to expand the adoption and deployment of innovation in Minnesota. This may include startup showcases and pilot-readiness training.
• Coordinate institutional partnerships that support innovation pathways and early technology adoption, which may include utilities, corporations, and local and state government.

• Professional experience in the energy sector or with a startup/accelerator program that works with energy startups.
• Base knowledge of several primary verticals, including power grid and utilities, renewable power and thermal, building efficiency, electrification, battery storage, or similar. Preference for familiarity with utility operating structures and/or private industry leaders and an understanding of current energy transition challenges and emerging technologies.
• Exceptional project management and organizational skills. Preference for experience designing or executing programs or accelerator/incubator initiatives.
• Business acumen with experience in strategic initiatives, structuring partnerships, and identifying market opportunities. Preference for an understanding of how innovation is nurtured in business ecosystems or investment tools and structures.
• Highly collaborative with strong facilitation skills in establishing and maintaining partnerships.
• Strong writing and communication skills.

This is a hybrid position open to candidates located in Minnesota. Work will primarily be remote, with the team convening in person on a regular schedule and occasionally attending in-person events.

$ (offer to be determined by relevant experience) Stipend provided for remote office setup.

Grid Catalyst will participate in the Minnesota Paid Leave program effective January 1, 2026. Additionally, we provide health insurance benefits (medical and dental), flexible PTO for intermittent sick days and planned vacations, and a 401k option with a 3% employer contribution.

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and an introductory email addressing the questionnaire below to nina. Application questions (please answer in your application email):

• What compelled you to apply for this job?
• What skill should we know about that might not stand out in your resume?

The posting will remain open until filled, but priority will be given to those who submit by December 2, 2025. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Grid Catalyst is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds to apply.

Grid Catalyst is on a mission to bring energy innovation to the market faster. We connect startups to strategic pilot partnerships, project support, and seed funding to demonstrate their technologies in the real world. We collaborate with leading industry partners, including utilities, Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, and local and state governments, to make Minnesota a go-to innovation ecosystem.