Beat the rush and submit your application early. Time is running out to make a pitch for your big idea. A collaboration between Sustainable Energy Fund and WPPSEF

announced the creation of Energy Sprout, a competition open to all Pennsylvania residents, businesses, and communities with the goal of developing new technology and business models that lead to improved sustainable energy solutions. All applications must be received by May 3, 2016 (4 p.m. EST).

Energy Sprout will focus on three pillars: energy conservation, energy efficiency, and renewable energy. The competition will place entrants into one of two pools: business and individuals or community. The first place winner for the business/individual competition will receive a $100,000 grant, with $25,000 for second place. Third place will receive a $3,000 grant. Within the community competition, the winner of the top prize will be rewarded with a $25,000 grant, second prize will be $5,000 and the third prize winner will receive $3,000 in grants.

Finalists from each pool will be selected to present their innovation live at Energypath 2016 on Thursday, July 28. Energypath 2016 is the region’s largest sustainable energy event attracting industry professionals, policymakers and academia throughout the region and across the United States. Energypath 2016 is being held July 25-29 at The Pennsylvania State University.