Small businesses working on scientific, clean energy and climate solutions that support the transition to a green economy in the US have been granted funding totalling $110 million (£80m).

A total of 102 projects in 24 states will share the funding for technological solutions in various areas, including advanced manufacturing of wind turbines and batteries, innovation in nuclear physics to lower energy costs, next-generation efficient nuclear reactors and methane detection technology.

Small businesses represent around 99.9% of all US businesses, employing nearly half of workers and creating two out of every three new jobs in the private sector.

Energy Secretary Jennifer M. Granholm said: “For any small business owner, every new bit of money is a game-changer that frees them up to pursue bold new ideas in earnest.

“This funding will give awardees a much-needed boost as they channel their entrepreneurial spirit into tackling the climate crisis, deploying creative clean energy technologies, and answering the biggest questions we have about the universe—all while creating new American jobs to sustain their communities.”