Biomimicry Institute opens applications for next cohort
Not-for-profit Biomimicry Institute has opened applications for its 2024 Ray of Hope Accelerator, which aims to propel start-ups towards growth with training, networking opportunities and $15,000 in funding.
Over four years, it has supported 39 young companies, including the UK's Sparxell, which uses plant-based cellulose for use as pigments, glitter, sequins and films; Spintex Engineering, which artificially spins performance silk fibres through a spider inspired process; and Werewool, which creates fibres with inherent colour.
"As we embark on our fifth year of the Ray of Hope programme, we are pleased to share that all of our previous participating start-ups are thriving," said Jared Yarnall-Schane, director of innovation at the Biomimicry Institute.
"Graduate companies have raised more than $100 million cumulatively in funding and are actively working to address systemic climate issues such as sea-level rise and plastic pollution. Building on this success, we are thrilled to launch an updated version of the programme this year that provides more robust training and financial support to nature-inspired solutions."
Image: Werewool
