The Engine Ignition Pass (Second Ignition Pass, sponsored by Shell)

About

Up to five early-stage Tough Tech startups developing physical technologies in specified energy, industrial, carbon, mineral, water, and subsurface areas can apply for up to one year of funded Residency at The Engine under the Shell-sponsored second Ignition Pass.

Benefits

• 🏢Funded Residency
  Selected startups receive up to one year of funded Residency at The Engine, supported by Shell.
• 🧪Facilities Access
  Selected startups gain access to specialized lab and engineering facilities at The Engine’s Cambridge headquarters, including more than 200,000 square feet of BSL-2 wet labs, engineering, and fabrication space with more than 1,880 pieces of specialized equipment.
• 🤝Business and Expert Support
  Selected startups receive business support, expert mentorship, and guidance from The Engine’s experienced staff.
• 🌐Industry Connections
  Selected startups are connected to The Engine’s network of industry partners and investors.
• 🛠️ Shared Resources and Programming
  Selected startups can use critical shared equipment and resources and access The Engine’s programs, tools, and mentor network.
• 👷Shell Technical Plan
  Each selected startup will work with Shell experts to create a technical development plan leveraging The Engine’s infrastructure and programs.

Eligibility Criteria

• Startups must demonstrate innovative research and impact aligned with The Engine's Tough Tech mission and the convergence of breakthrough science and engineering.
• Startups must show commitment to utilizing and leveraging The Engine’s facilities to accelerate their research and commercialization efforts.
• Startups are not required to be founded in the Boston area.
• Startups must be registered in the United States.
• Startups must not have raised more than $10 million in capital, excluding non-dilutive funding.
• Startups must not have trailing 12-month revenue of more than $3 million.
• Startups must be early-stage Tough Tech companies developing physical technologies in the specified technology areas.
• Startups must have a clear need for specialized lab or engineering facilities.

Participation Commitments

• Submit an application online
• Applications must be submitted by 21 December 2026
• Selected startups will work with Shell experts to create a technical development plan
• Selected teams will begin their Residency at The Engine after selection

Target Sector

Energy & Utilities, Manufacturing, Other

Target Location

Startups must be registered in the United States. They are not required to be founded in the Boston area.