Shell E4

Shell E4 is Shell's flagship startup accelerator program, established to support and scale startups in the energy, mobility, and industrial sectors. The program offers a comprehensive platform that connects startups with Shell's global resources, technical expertise, and networks, enabling them to accelerate the development of sustainable energy solutions. Startups gain access to Shell's Technology and IT labs at the Shell Technology Centre in Bengaluru for product development and testing, as well as mentorship from Shell's subject matter experts and industry leaders. Additionally, Shell E4 facilitates connections to Shell's global network of partners and customers, helping startups validate and scale their offerings. Beyond initial investment, startups may raise additional funding through Shell Ventures and other investors introduced during the program. The program culminates in the 'Changemakers of Tomorrow' event, where startups pitch to top investors and engage with key decision-makers in the energy ecosystem. Graduates join the Shell E4 alumni network, continuing their journey with ongoing support and connections. Shell E4's mission is to empower and enable Indian entrepreneurs working on energy-related startups, helping them become sustainable, profitable, and impactful organizations. By co-creating and developing the startup ecosystem in India, Shell E4 aims to link talent, technology, capital, and know-how for energy entrepreneurs, accelerating India's transition to a sustainable energy future. The program is located at the Shell Technology Centre Bengaluru and leverages the vibrant Bengaluru startup ecosystem. Shell E4 has supported over 40 startups since its inception, many of which are now scaling successfully. The program differentiates itself by offering real-world deployment opportunities, sustained post-program engagement, and access to Shell's global network, positioning itself as a long-term partner in a startup's growth. In 2025, Shell E4 increased its initial investment for participating startups, offering funding between $100K to $500K from Shell Ventures in the form of a convertible loan, subject to meeting Shell's evaluation criteria and due diligence. This move aims to provide high-impact energy and climate-tech startups with the necessary backing to test, iterate, and scale in a dynamic market environment. Shell E4 continues to play a vital role in strengthening India's clean energy economy by supporting startups working on transformative solutions in areas like energy access, mobility, and industrial decarbonization, each critical to advancing India's net-zero ambitions and energy independence goals. By enabling regional innovation and fostering scale-up opportunities for market-ready technologies, Shell E4 contributes to the growth of India's climate-tech and clean energy startup ecosystem.

Shell E4's approach includes a comprehensive startup development journey that supports product-market fit, building scalable go-to-market strategies, and tailored product clinics. The program offers access to Shell's research and development facilities at the Shell Technology Centre in Bengaluru, providing startups with the infrastructure needed for testing and development. Startups also benefit from Shell's network of pilot partners and global ecosystem players, facilitating collaborations that extend beyond the program. Many startups continue to work with Shell or stay connected through alumni engagements well beyond the cohort, providing long-term value. The program's collaboration with NASSCOM's Centre of Excellence for IoT & AI in 2025 reflects a strategic step toward deeper ecosystem engagement, bringing access to a powerful network of deep-tech startups, research institutions, and corporate partners. This partnership ensures that startups not only receive Shell's core resources but also benefit from broader national and regional innovation support systems.

Shell E4's mission aligns with India's broader goals such as Atmanirbhar Bharat and the push for energy independence and net-zero targets. By catalyzing India's energy and environment startup ecosystem, Shell E4 offers a powerful blend of mentorship, investment, and deployment. The program supports startups working on transformative solutions in areas like energy access, mobility, and industrial decarbonization—each critical to advancing India's net-zero ambitions and energy independence goals. By enabling regional innovation, especially from Tier 2 and 3 cities, and fostering scale-up opportunities for market-ready technologies, Shell E4 continues to play a vital role in strengthening India's clean energy economy.

Looking ahead, Shell E4 is positioned to accelerate a new generation of climate-forward startups. With enhanced investments, stronger ecosystem partnerships, and a sharper thematic focus, the program aims to deepen engagements, shorten innovation cycles, and move high-quality startups quickly from lab to market. B