EkoStinger, Connexus win big in 76West Clean Energy Contest

Rochester-Based EkoStinger has won the $1 million grand prize in the 76West Clean Energy Competition. Also on the list is Connexus Controls, a startup housed at RIT Venture Creations, which received $250,000.

Connexus, which provides an internet-connected platform that enables heating and cooling contractors to increase energy efficiency by managing customer systems, and EkoStinger are among six companies who received awards in one of the largest competitions in the country that focuses on supporting and growing clean energy businesses and fostering economic development.

EkoStinger, which manufactures under-trailer aerodynamic devices for tractor trailers that reduce emissions and save fuel, will expand its operations to the Southern Tier.

“The 76West Competition is attracting some of the most innovative entrepreneurs to the Southern Tier, spurring economic growth while advancing our State’s clean energy economy,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. “Congratulations to EkoStinger and the rest of the 76West winners who are bringing jobs to this region and ensuring New York remains at the forefront of the fight against climate change.”

A total of $2.5 million was awarded to winners. Here are the others on the list:

$500,000 award winner:

Hub Controls – Dublin, Ireland: Creates smart energy products for the home that empower households to manage their utility bills.

$250,000 award winners:

• PassiveLogic – Holladay, UT: Enables buildings to be more energy efficient with its automated building control system.
• Southern Tier Technologies – Endwell, NY: Creates energy optimization products to help customers reduce carbon emissions and reduce utility bill costs.
• Switched Source – Detroit, MI: Produces distribution-scale power electronics that increase the penetration of renewable energy on the grid.

76West is a $20 million competition and support program that started in 2016 and will run through 2019. Each year, applicants compete for a $1 million grand prize, a $500,000 award and four $250,000 awards. In total, 76West is providing $10 million in awards and $10 million in business support, marketing and administration through the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative and the Clean Energy Fund.

As a condition of the award, companies must either move to the Southern Tier or establish a direct connection with the Southern Tier, such as supply chain, job development with Southern Tier companies, or other strategic relationships with Southern Tier entities that stimulate wealth creation and create jobs. If the companies are already in the Southern Tier, they must commit to substantially growing their business and employment in the region.