FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 25, 2026
Media Contact
Braden Croy
(315) 329-9625
Braden@dominnovation.com
SPARK Virginia Announces Eight Finalists for 2026 Innovation Challenge at Energy Tech
Finalists showcase cutting-edge solutions across hydrogen, nuclear, robotics, critical minerals, EV infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing
Ashland, VA — The Dominion Energy Innovation Center (“DEIC”) announced the eight finalists selected to compete in the 2026 SPARK Virginia Innovation Challenge, taking place March 10 at the Science Museum of Virginia as part of the 2026 Energy Tech event.
SPARK Virginia is designed to elevate high-potential energy and climate technology ventures advancing commercialization and strengthening Virginia’s innovation economy. Selected finalists represent breakthrough technologies and services across critical infrastructure, advanced energy systems, manufacturing, robotics, and supply chain resilience.
2026 SPARK Virginia Finalists
Advanced Magnetic Materials Processing (AM²P) – Virginia Commonwealth University
Develops rare-earth-free permanent magnet materials using field-assisted additive manufacturing to strengthen domestic supply chains and accelerate the clean energy transition.
Buckstop
An AI platform delivering algorithmic appraisal, coordination, and value optimization for end-of-life electronic assets. Buckstop is building the Kelley Blue Book for electronics to accelerate device recirculation and maximize critical mineral recovery.
Canary Instruments
A U.S.-based venture developing patented, real-time radiation monitoring systems to provide critical safety infrastructure for next-generation nuclear fission and fusion energy systems.
Helix Hydrogen, Inc.
A Virginia-based clean energy startup building a patent-pending, high-efficiency electrolyzer architecture designed to reduce the cost and improve the reliability of hydrogen production for distributed and industrial applications.
MicroCatalyst
Creating a printed circuit board (PCB) based microreactor platform that enables low-cost, modular, and AI-optimized chemical manufacturing and critical mineral refining, reshaping domestic processing capabilities.
Realta Systems
Develops advanced autonomous robots capable of performing multiple operations and maintenance tasks in radiation environments, improving safety and efficiency in nuclear and high-radiation facilities.
Sustainable Choice
A climate-focused company helping individuals and businesses overcome clean energy barriers by securing verified deliveries of U.S. renewable energy to the grid through renewable energy certificates (RECs), with an emphasis on transparency and measurable impact.
Volt Virginia
Deploys zero-CAPEX, grid-optimized EV charging hubs at rural agritourism destinations, closing infrastructure gaps along Virginia’s iconic travel corridors and supporting regional economic development.
The eight finalists will present live to a panel of industry, utility, and investment leaders, competing for a $7,500 Grand Prize and a $2,500 Runner-Up award. Winners will be announced during the Energy Tech conference’s closing happy hour.
“SPARK Virginia exists to identify and accelerate the most promising early-stage energy innovations emerging across the Commonwealth,” said Braden Croy, Program Director of DEIC. “This year’s finalists reflect the depth of technical talent and commercialization momentum building across Virginia, from hydrogen and nuclear safety to robotics, grid infrastructure, and critical mineral processing.”
SPARK Virginia serves as a launchpad for energy ventures transitioning from technical validation to market deployment. By connecting startups with corporate partners, utilities, and capital providers, the competition strengthens Virginia’s position as a national hub for advanced energy innovation.
For more information about Energy Tech and SPARK Virginia, visit EnergyTechVA.com.
About Dominion Energy Innovation Center
The Dominion Energy Innovation Center is a hub for entrepreneurial growth and innovation in Ashland, Virginia. Founded in November 2009 as a non-profit public-private partnership, the DEIC accelerates great ideas across a wide spectrum of industry sectors in addition to its focus on building the clean technology sector in Virginia. Founding partners of the Center include the signature sponsor, Dominion Energy, as well as Activation Capital, the Town of Ashland, and Hanover County. More information at www.dominnovation.com.
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