Rice Startups to Showcase Transformative Energy Technologies at CERAWeek
CERAWeek 2025 is set to be a dynamic platform for the world’s most forward-thinking energy leaders. Rice University will be at the forefront with its cutting-edge research and entrepreneurial talent. This year, several Rice-affiliated startups will be featured, bringing transformative innovations in sustainability, decarbonization, and advanced materials to the global energy conversation.
Rice-Affiliated Startups at CERAWeek
As part of Rice’s commitment to fostering groundbreaking research and commercialization, the following startups will be participating at CERAWeek:
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Solidec – Advancing electrolysis for producing emission-free chemicals and fuels from air. Learn more
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DexMat – Innovating lightweight, high-performance carbon nanotube materials to replace traditional metal wiring in energy applications. Learn more
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Universal Matter – Advancing sustainable graphene production to revolutionize material science and energy storage. Learn more
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Syzygy Plasmonics – Developing cutting-edge photocatalysis technology for cleaner hydrogen production and reduced emissions. Learn more
These ventures, launched by Rice innovators and researchers, exemplify the university’s leadership in addressing energy challenges through technological advancement. Their participation at CERAWeek provides a vital opportunity to connect with global industry leaders, investors, and policymakers, fostering collaborations that can accelerate the transition to a more sustainable energy future.
Rice’s Role in Energy Innovation
Rice University has long been a hub for groundbreaking energy research, leveraging its strengths in materials science, engineering, and entrepreneurship. Through initiatives like the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship, the university plays a pivotal role in supporting startups and positioning them for success in competitive energy markets.
Energy Venture Day & Pitch Competition
CERAWeek will also feature the Energy Venture Day & Pitch Competition on March 12, hosted by the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship in collaboration with the Houston Energy Transition Initiative and TEX-E. This event will showcase 36 energy ventures working on efficiency and advancements in the energy transition, each pitching their solutions to a panel of industry experts and investors for a chance to win cash prizes. https://alliance.rice.edu/evd/apply
After the event, the top three ventures from each industry track will be recognized, with the highest-scoring startup advancing to the Startup World Cup Competition in San Francisco. Additionally, the university track, part of the TEX-E Prize, will award a total of $50,000 in cash prizes to support emerging student-led ventures.
For those interested in an early look at the competition, a free pitch preview will be held at The Ion on March 11 — registration is available here.
Join the Conversation
CERAWeek is more than just a conference — it’s a catalyst for the next generation of energy solutions. We invite attendees to connect with Rice-affiliated startups and explore how our research and entrepreneurship ecosystem is shaping the future of sustainable energy.
For more information on Rice’s energy ventures and startup opportunities, visit the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship.
Stay tuned for updates and insights from CERAWeek!