Cleantech Innovate is the largest national showcase of its kind. At this unique annual event, now in its second year, 40 all-British companies presented their innovative clean technology propositions. From wind-powered cargo ships to liquid air engines; from abseiling cavity wall insulators to advances in consumer-friendly smart-hubs; the cream of UK commercial green industry innovation stepped forward. Selected from a highly competitive field of entrants, and representing the next generation of green industry pioneering, the day was an opportunity to air entrepreneurial ideas before an audience of industry investors. From 2015, showcases will be held in London and in Scotland.
ecoConnect, the UK’s green industry business network, runs Cleantech Innovate. Co-Founder and Director, Catherine Hokin, said: “Once again, Cleantech Innovate has demonstrated that the UK has the talent and ingenuity to be leading players in low carbon innovation with ideas that not only challenge conventional thinking but also have the commercial edge that will appeal to investors.”
The sell-out event, held at the headquarters of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, was endorsed by both Fergus Ewing, Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Tourism in the Scottish Government and Greg Barker, Minister of State for DECC. Mr Barker announced the Coalition’s Commitment to Low Carbon Innovation at the showcase.
Catherine added: “We are delighted that the Coalition is taking practical steps to support the Cleantech sector which can and should be a key driver for economic growth in the UK.”
Dr Tim Fox, the Institution’s Head of Energy and Environment, was among seven members of the selection committee which, in October, had narrowed 80+ applications down to 40. These innovators then presented in February’s showcase. The committee considered all proposals in terms of viability, impact, innovation and long-term vision.
Tim commented that the standard, both in entrants’ propositions, and the quality of the proposals submitted, has risen since last year.
He said: “The Institution has a long and proud heritage of supporting UK entrepreneurship. This showcase event is one of very few opportunities to shine the spotlight on British cleantech innovation, which has a significant domestic and international market. What we saw on February 13 was that British entrepreneurial spirit is alive and kicking today. Taking part in Cleantech Innovate – whether as a delegate, panel-member or potential commercial partner – is an opportunity to celebrate inventiveness, innovation and business acumen: the green industry’s commercial ventures of tomorrow.”
The day focused on celebrating forty innovative, marketable clean technology products. In addition, awards were presented to:
- Evolute Drives – Low Carbon Transport Prize
- Frigesco – ecoConnect’s Best in Show
- AdFerTech – Climate KIC Award for Early Stage Entrepreneurs
- Straw Fuels – Climate KIC Business Creation Prize
For more information, please visit: http://www.ecoconnect.org.uk/