Innovation Cluster Accelerator Program Cohort 3

The Washington State Department of Commerce is seeking applications for the Innovation Cluster Accelerator Program (ICAP) Cohort 3, a targeted economic development initiative designed to strengthen industry ecosystems across multiple Washington counties. The Request for Applications (RFA) specifically solicits proposals from industry-led consortia focused on reducing greenhouse gas impacts, creating jobs, and improving public health. Eligible applicants must demonstrate academic membership, a commitment to climate pollution reduction, and experience working with Washington State communities and businesses. Proposals will be evaluated on several key criteria including opportunity, outcomes, solutions, project readiness, management, and overall budget, with applications due on April 2, 2025, at 5:00 PM PST. The contract period will run from April 2025 through June 30, 2025, with successful applicants expected to engage in activities such as gap analyses, workforce programs, startup incubators, and other cluster development initiatives. Evaluation will prioritize organizations that do not require employees to sign mandatory arbitration clauses, and all applicants must be licensed to do business in Washington or commit to becoming licensed within 30 days of selection.

The procurement is open to a diverse range of organizational types, including local governments, tribal governments, service providers, utilities, ports, academic institutions, non-profits, and for-profit entities. Funding is sourced from Washington's Climate Commitment Act, with the Department of Commerce intending to award multiple contracts totaling approximately $970,000. Individual contract awards will range between $50,000 and $150,000, with no single contract exceeding $150,000. Eligible expenses include personnel costs, meeting expenses, supplies, travel, and specific project-related activities. Ineligible expenses encompass advertising, construction, scholarships, and international travel. The program emphasizes industry-led clusters and will give additional consideration to proposals that demonstrate potential for meaningful economic and environmental impact. Applicants must submit a comprehensive budget narrative and provide a letter of commitment from a major university or community college to be considered for funding.