Nina Axelson

Founder and accelerator builder focused on commercializing clean energy technologies: Nina founded Grid Catalyst in 2021 to create cohort, incubator, and demonstration pathways (e.g., PowerNorth) that connect startups to utilities, corporations, research institutions, and government partners so technologies can be piloted and scaled in Minnesota and beyond. gridcatalyst+2

Experienced communications and public affairs leader in utility and district energy contexts: During her tenure at Ever‑Green Energy / District Energy St. Paul, Nina oversaw government affairs, communications, outreach, education, and community programs and served as a public contact for high‑visibility projects such as the Plume Project and large solar thermal initiatives. cleanenergyresourceteams+2

A connector who attracts public and private funding for pilots and startups: Under Nina's Grid Catalyst leadership, the organization has leveraged state funding (Minnesota Energy Alley) and federal/award recognition to fund demonstrations and seed investments, and to attract follow‑on public and private capital for cohort companies. minnpost+2

Public-facing speaker and industry voice on energy transition and innovation: Nina appears in media and industry events (radio, conferences, video) discussing climate, clean energy commercialization, and Minnesota's innovation ecosystem, representing Grid Catalyst in public testimony and panels. mprnews+2