Who we are

The Electrochemistry Foundry (ECF) will be a new nonprofit, if successful in winning this open California Energy Commission solicitation, that will establish a shared-use facility in Hayward, California to advance battery and electrochemical innovation while creating local workforce opportunities.

We are a collective of scientists, innovators, and operators. We have founded or helped launch over 200 hard technology startups. We have mentored over 250 science-entrepreneurs. We have developed dozens of new products. And we have come together to provide state-of-the-art equipment, industry connections, and expert guidance to startups, researchers, and manufacturers working on next-generation lithium-ion and electrochemical technologies.

Where we work

With Hayward already home to key companies like Rivian, Lithos Energy, and Blue Current, this facility will build on the region’s early momentum to transform the mid-East Bay into a thriving energy innovation hub—similar to how South San Francisco became a leader in biotech. It will also serve as the catalyst for a larger electrochemical technology campus including areas like hydrogen production.

What we envision

A key component of the ECF’s mission is inclusive workforce development. By engaging with local community colleges, adult education, and labor organizations, we will introduce young adults and adults to career pathways in the battery sector, from entrepreneurship and skilled trades to engineering and corporate roles. Through job fairs, internships, and partnerships with industry leaders, the ECF will create direct employment opportunities for trained workers. By locating the facility and drawing both users of the facility as well as new corporate tenants to Hayward, the vision is for local residents to access high-quality career opportunities in clean energy without needing to relocate.