NextGen Program
About
NextGen at CERAWeek deepens the ever-important connection between academia and industry, creating a dynamic environment that cultivates top talent, uncovers fresh ideas, and discovers newfound energy transition pathways. This exciting new initiative builds on the already thriving innovation community at CERAWeek to help faculty source, fund, and scale impactful new concepts – and identify talent.
NextGen accelerates these connections through engaging programming, targeted networking events, and collaborative discussions that inspire and spark the next generation of talent, ideas, and alliances.
By fostering the industrial-academic nexus, NextGen ensures the formation of a motivated workforce and the emergence of novel solutions that drive lasting and meaningful change.
Session Formats
NextGen Pod
Featuring purpose-driven innovation and early-stage research at universities, energy and climate centers, and accelerators during 25-minute Pod sessions in the George Bush Ballroom of the Innovation Agora.
NextGen Lyceum Program
The Lyceum Program features seminars in a classroom lecture styled space on critical topics in early-stage research and collaborative innovation between academia, industry, government and fellows.
NextGen Ampitheatre
Dedicated zone in the Nexus for discussions oriented toward advancing a passionate, diverse workforce, showcasing emerging innovation, and deepening collaboration between industry, academia, early-stage startups and government.
NextGen Colloquium
Exclusive, interactive format with discussions focused on enhancing collaborative partnerships between industry, early-stage startups, government and academia.
NextGen Dialogue
Senior officials from government, academia, industry, and startups share insights and strategies to attract talent and enable continued innovation.
Innovators Row
Showcasing early-stage research from universities and incubators using posters, whiteboards, and other media at kiosks in the Clean Energy Commons.
NextGen Huddle
A unique space designed for intimate discussions among 2-4 participants. This semi-private setting is conducive for potential employers to connect with graduate students and other talented individuals exploring career opportunities, as well as for faculty to delve deeper into their research with potential industry partners. The NextGen Huddle also promotes networking opportunities, including Meetups for NextGen, Women in Energy, and Future Energy Leaders.
CERAWeek 2025 University Participation
