Building a Thriving Energy Innovation Ecosystem

Powering the Future of Hydrogen and Carbon Technologies

Texas Innovates is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing hard-tech carbon and hydrogen solutions in the Gulf Coast region. Founded on over 50 years of leadership in science, education, and entrepreneurship, we address the urgent need for a specialized platform to support hydrogen and carbon technology startups.

Our flagship program, CHILI, is the first incubator in the region to focus exclusively on hardware innovation for hydrogen and carbon technologies. Supported by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) EPIC OTT, CHILI aligns closely with the HyVelocity Hydrogen Hub and other large-scale decarbonization initiatives, creating a unified effort to revolutionize the energy landscape.

Our MissionTo accelerate innovation in hydrogen and carbon sectors by bridging gaps in technical and commercial support for startups.

Our VisionTo establish the Gulf Coast as a global leader in resilient energy innovation, ensuring economic and environmental benefits for communities.

What Sets CHILI Apart?

  • Focus on Hardware Manufacturing and Piloting– Supporting deep-tech hydrogen and carbon solutions.
  • Tailored Curriculum – A structured 17-module curriculum for carbon and hydrogen tech startups.
  • Strong Industry & Government Partnerships – Collaborating with leading corporations, universities, and policymakers to fast-track startup success.
  • Industry Mentors – 30+ mentors with industry experience both technical and business.

Future Vision: Scaling Impact

CHILI is building a sustainable energy innovation ecosystem with ambitious milestones:

2025 Goals

  • Launch Technology Scaling & Manufacturing Hub (TSMhub) to bridge commercialization gaps.
  • Expand startup support through enhanced prototyping and pilot facilities.

By 2030

  • Scale CHILI to support 50 startups annually.
  • Solidify the Gulf Coast as a global hydrogen innovation hub, accelerating decarbonization and economic growth.

Long-Term Sustainability

  • Achieve self-sufficiency through a blend of public funding, corporate sponsorships, and alumni engagement.

Join us in driving a sustainable energy future while transforming the Gulf Coast into a global hub for innovation

Be part of a bold vision that transforms the Gulf Coast into a global innovation powerhouse for hydrogen and carbon technologies.

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Apply Now – 2025 Cohort