frequently asked questions

Free Electrons gives startups the opportunity to test and scale solutions with some of the world’s leading utilities. Through collaboration, startups gain access to operational environments, pilot opportunities and direct engagement with industry decision-makers.

The Utilities support a variety of startups at different stages. Typically, the startup’s applying for Free Electrons have already raised money, have pilot ready solutions and have created a working prototype.

The Utilities look for:

• The experience of the start-up team
• The maturity of the product, solution or idea
• The level opportunity in the market the start-up is targeting
• The potential profitability of the business model
• The fit of the start-up to the needs of The Utilities

To begin, log in or create an account on F6S.com using Linkedin, Facebook or email. You can also click on the “Apply Now” button on the Free Electrons website or Linkedin to be redirected to the relevant F6S application page.

The application typically takes a few hours to complete.

If you need assistance, click “Contact Us” and our team will respond within 48 hours.

Once a start-up has submitted their application, The Utilities and their subject matter experts will review the submission. If an initial fit exists between the startup and the program, the program will be in touch to arrange for the start-up to attend the Pitch Event module for a fast-paced pitching round and Q&A.

At the conclusion of Pitch Event, successful start-ups will be invited to join a series of three, 4 day modules around the globe. During these modules, start-ups work closely with utilities, local accelerators and mentors to refine their company’s solution and explore options to jump start their company’s growth.

Applications for the 2026 program close on January 31st, 2026.

Startups will be notified at least two weeks prior to the online Pitch Event to allow for adequate preparation.

Those progressing to the Bootcamp will receive a written confirmation at least four weeks in advance to plan any necessary travel arrangements.

This means that either you’ve caught our attention or someone in the Free Electrons network has recommended you to us.

While there is no obligation to apply, we encourage you to explore the opportunity and see how your solution could fit within the program.

We’re always interested in hearing from startups.

If you’d like to register your interest or have an inquiry outside the application period, you can reach out through the Contact Us form on our website or message the Free Electrons team directly on LinkedIn.

For program updates and upcoming application dates, you can also subscribe to our newsletter and stay connected with us there.

Yes, it is a requirement for a start-up accepting a place in Free Electrons that at least one c-level and senior employee of the start-up be present at each module.

Participating in person allows startups to fully leverage the program’s extensive network. This immersive experience enables teams to engage in-person with the full ecosystem of mentors, partners, investors, and other program startups.

Yes, Free Electrons do provide visa and other logistical assistance.

Yes, the program will subsidize flight costs (reimbursed up to a specified limit), as well as cover and arrange accommodation and meals for two employees from each participating startup.

The program lasts the course of one year, with approx. 15 days abroad. However, many startups and utilities continue to work with each other beyond the program.

The program focuses on enhancing every aspect of a start-ups business over the course of one year. Participants gain valuable experience through hands-on interactions with The Utilities, connections to relevant industry insiders, and exposure to investors.

The programs concludes with an Open Day where start-ups have the opportunity to showcase their business to an extended audience of investors, partners, mentors and the local ecosystem.

The program and all participants take intellectual property (IP) very seriously and understand that startups often have varying levels of protection for their IP. The application form allows for you to explain where you are at along the IP journey. If you make it into the program and project with one or several of the utility members, you may need additional non-disclosure agreements to protect your IP (the utilities may also require one for their own protection). These agreements are signed on a case by case approach; this is usually a fairly simple process that all utility members are experienced in and follows generally acceptable market practices on IP protection.

Startups and utilities often go on to continue to work together beyond the program. Start-ups that attend the program become part of the Alumni, which provides continued access to a global ecosystem of The Utilities, other start-ups, founders and mentors.

Even if start-ups apply and don’t get selected, the application will be viewed by The Utilities and their subject matter experts. Sometimes a solution is just not a fit for right now, this is not to say it won’t be in the future – Free Electrons encourages all applicants to re-apply the following year.

Yes - startups that have applied before are welcome to apply again.

We recommend clearly highlighting any progress or achievements since your last application so that the Utilities can better assess your growth and readiness for collaboration.

The short answer is it is both a numbers and needs game – we get hundreds of applications each year but can only take a handful through the down-selection process. They are the ones that meet some pretty specific needs of the utility partners.

Passing on an applicant doesn’t mean that we don’t believe the startup has a great product/service or will be successful in their endeavours. It simply means that there were other startups that were more relevant to our present business ambitions & gaps.

As you consider these FAQs and your application today or in the future, here are some tips to ensure your application has the best chance of being viewed favourably by the utility reviewers:

• Make sure you read each question carefully before answering – applications that are incomplete or don’t address the actual question being asked are not ideal
• Our program is run entirely in English, so please don’t submit an application in another language and expect our international team to translate it!
• Take the time to read each utility partner’s pitch deck and then tailor your responses to demonstrate how you are trying to solve one our current challenges or meet our priorities
• We want to work with ambitious but flexible teams – find a way to make your execs available IF you get into the program
• Whilst we do often invest in startups, don’t apply if the only reason is you want immediate funding. Ultimately, we are looking to grow with you

The reality is this – your startup is probably great. The main reason many applicants do not get invited to pitch is not to be found anywhere in their application. We were just more aligned with other startups this year. However, remember that it’s not over, many companies that get into Free Electrons apply multiple times before getting accepted, so we encourage you to apply again next year.

If your startup is selected, you must commit two team members to attend each module - at least one C-level executive and one senior manager. This ensures both strategic and operational perspectives are represented, maximizing the value of your participation.

Attendance from both roles is mandatory for every in-person module. If your startup cannot guarantee participation from two eligible team members, your place in the program may be forfeited. The program team will confirm attendance in advance and may request alternative representatives if the proposed participants do not meet these criteria.