The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) is a $500 billion federal initiative focused on cutting emissions, lowering healthcare costs, and increasing revenue through tax reform. Over $369 billion is dedicated to clean energy through tax credits, loans, and R&D, aiming to reduce U.S. emissions by 40% by 2030 and revitalize domestic manufacturing.

Venture capital has cooled significantly since the 2021 SPAC boom due to rising interest rates, with funding down ~30% annually. Despite the Inflation Reduction Act's support for clean tech, startups face challenges accessing it, and investors still prioritize market viability over government incentives.