Questions about Greenshot?

Check out the information below, and if we still haven’t covered it, contact us!

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What kinds of climate solutions is Greenshot interested in?

We are looking at impact and are broad-minded when it comes to tackling climate change. We are here to support you whether you are working on the latest carbon removal technologies or looking to improve climate education for the masses.

 

Below are the major categories that we have defined, but we are open to any climate solution, so please do not hesitate to apply.

 
  1. Energy Transition

  2. Mobility

  3. Food and Agriculture

  4. Material Production and Supply Chain Decarbonization

  5. Carbon Utilization, Storage, and/or Removal

  6. Waste and Circularity

  7. Climate Mitigation and Adaptation

  8. Water

  9. Energy Justice and Social Impact

  10. Climate and Health Equity

  11. Other

Do I need to have an established US company before participating in Greenshot or claiming prize money?

You can apply to Greenshot even if you don’t have an established company. However, to be eligible for prize money and participate in the program, you must be a registered U.S. entity before the program begins.

Do I need to have developed a product or a solution before applying to Greenshot?

At Greenshot, we embrace all types of climate and energy focused projects. While we welcome applications from a variety of stages, we ideally seek startups with a clear value proposition and evidence of customer interest.

Can I apply to Greenshot as the only member of my company?

While we generally prefer startups with at least two founding members, single founders are certainly welcome to apply. You have the flexibility to designate which team members will regularly attend the program, however most of the programming is designed for CEO participation.

Who is the primary audience for Greenshot?

The primary audience for Greenshot consists of entrepreneurs–including Dartmouth faculty–who are developing climate and energy solutions. We are particularly interested in startups with at least two members on the leadership team and evidence of customer interest.

Is Greenshot open to everyone, or do I need to be affiliated with Dartmouth?

Greenshot is open to all individuals; you do not need to be affiliated with Dartmouth to apply or participate. We encourage both members and non-members of the Dartmouth community to apply.

Do I need to relocate to Hanover? Is this a virtual program?

No, our program is hybrid. The opening and closing weekends are in-person events, while the remainder of the program is primarily conducted virtually, allowing you to participate from anywhere. We do offer program participants free office and lab space in the center of campus, but utilizing this benefit is not mandatory.

Can I secure funding during Greenshot?

Absolutely! Securing funding is a crucial aspect of your startup’s growth, and we are here to support you in that journey. The Greenshot program includes expert coaching on how to pitch to venture capitalists, culminating in a pitch session with a select group of top energy and climate VCs in the U.S. Additionally, we offer programming on how to navigate government grants effectively.

How much time should I budget for the Greenshot application process?

Completing the application will take approximately 60 minutes, not including the preparation of your pitch deck. If you don’t already have a pitch deck, you should budget a few additional hours to create one.

On what criteria will my application be evaluated for Greenshot?

Applications for Greenshot will be evaluated based on several criteria, including:

  • Impact on Climate Mitigation or Adaptation: The potential effectiveness of your solution in addressing climate challenges. 
  • Business Model: The viability and sustainability of your approach.
  • Market Understanding: Your comprehension of market dynamics and customer needs, along with any demonstrated market traction.
  • Startup Team Background: The qualifications and experience of your team members.
Does Greenshot take equity from participating startups?

No, Greenshot does not require any equity in exchange for participation in the program. Additionally, team prizes (up to $75K) are awarded without any equity requirements, making Greenshot a uniquely supportive platform for your startup’s growth.

Does it cost anything to participate in Greenshot?

Participation in Greenshot is completely free, and we do not take any equity!



What is my expected weekly time commitment for Greenshot?

While the time you invest in Greenshot is ultimately up to you, we recommend a minimum commitment of five hours per week for the curriculum and mentoring meetings. This level of engagement will help you maximize the benefits of the program. Beyond that, you have the flexibility to determine how you wish to utilize the resources available through Greenshot.

How long does the Greenshot program last?

The Greenshot accelerator program lasts just over three months. In 2024, the program ran from late January to early May. For 2025, the program will run later in the year.

Are there specific milestones or deliverables expected from us during Greenshot?

While the experience in Greenshot is tailored to your unique startup, there are some common expectations. These include significant progress on your pitch and a comprehensive presentation for Demo Day. Our goal is to help you communicate your vision and achievements effectively to potential investors and stakeholders. The curriculum is designed to accelerate your go-to-market strategy, enhance customer discovery, scale your business, and prepare you for the next phase of growth.

What happens after the three month program?

Even after the program concludes, your association with Greenshot and Dartmouth continues. As a graduate of the program, you remain a valued part of our community and will continue to have access to our networks and resources.

Is there any exclusivity associated with the program?

No, there is no exclusivity associated with the Greenshot program. We believe in fostering an open and collaborative environment that encourages cross-pollination of ideas and shared growth.

I am already super busy growing my business. Can I still fit Greenshot into my schedule?

Greenshot is designed to support and propel your business forward. The topics we cover are key to business growth and will complement your core operations. We recommend allocating approximately five hours per week to the program to fully benefit from the expertise of our mentors, speakers, and faculty members. Greenshot offers a high return on your time investment.

We are primarily focused on finding customers right now. Could Greenshot be a distraction?

Greenshot can actually serve as an accelerator in your customer discovery process. The program offers exclusive access to senior-level industry leaders who will provide valuable feedback on your product and services. This type of customer discovery can significantly propel your growth.

What financial support does Greenshot provide to its participants?

Greenshot proudly offers participants the opportunity to win a prize of up to $75,000. The winners will be determined by our Advisory Council on Demo Day.

How does Greenshot facilitate non-monetary support for startups?

Greenshot participants benefit immensely from access to Dartmouth’s state-of-the-art facilities, which include innovative workspaces and dry labs. Furthermore, startups have the distinct advantage of direct engagement with diverse customer panels across industry sectors.

Can I expect mentorship and specialized resources during my time at Greenshot?

Absolutely. At Greenshot, you will receive invaluable guidance from influential mentors on a weekly basis. This mentorship not only helps participants apply concepts from the curriculum directly to their businesses but also provides a supportive sounding board throughout the program.

How does Greenshot create networking opportunities and avenues for potential investments?

Networking is a cornerstone of the Greenshot experience. Our extensive network encompasses successful entrepreneurs, leading corporations, and prominent climate VCs. We will facilitate access to Dartmouth’s rich network, as many of our alumni are interested in innovative solutions for climate mitigation and adaptation. On Demo Day, you will showcase your solutions to a receptive audience, including a diverse pool of investors associated with Dartmouth.

What makes Greenshot distinct compared to other programs?

Beyond what has been already mentioned, our uniqueness stems from extensive access and connections within the Dartmouth community. Participants benefit from:

  • High Engagement: Direct interaction with a curated community of climate experts. 
  • Top-Tier Curriculum: Instruction from renowned professors at the Tuck School of Business and industry experts.
  • Valuable Insights: Perspectives from world-class energy and climate entrepreneurs and venture capitalists who serve as guest speakers.
  • State-of-the-Art Workspace Access: Benefit from our newly constructed, cutting-edge facilities located at the heart of campus in a LEED Platinum building.
  • Access to Talented Students: Collaborate with engineering, business, and undergraduate students eager to work with energy and climate startups, as well as student consulting teams available for project support.