VertueLab

VertueLab operates as a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering early-stage clean technology and climate innovation. It builds comprehensive support systems for climate tech startups, primarily within the Pacific Northwest, offering accelerators like the Cascadia CleanTech Accelerator and 45Camp. The organization provides essential services such as federal grant assistance and strategic investment to advance promising environmental solutions. This holistic approach empowers nascent companies to develop and scale their climate-focused technologies.

The organization was founded in 2007 as Oregon BEST, initially focusing on supporting emerging climate-focused companies within Oregon. David Kenney, who assumed leadership in 2008, played a significant role in its early development and expansion. The foundational insight stemmed from the critical need to bridge the gap between climate innovators and the resources required to bring their solutions to market, evolving its scope to broader climate innovation.

VertueLab primarily serves climate tech entrepreneurs and clean technology startups seeking to address environmental challenges. The organization’s overarching vision is to combat climate change by providing vital resources and investment to these innovators, thereby catalyzing equitable economic opportunity and driving a global environmental impact. Its forward-looking mission centers on sustaining and growing a vibrant ecosystem for climate innovation.