Mainspring
Series F in 2025
Mainspring Energy, Inc. is a technology company based in Menlo Park, California, that specializes in developing linear generator technology for low carbon, dispatchable energy solutions. Founded in 2010 by three Stanford engineers, the company focuses on creating advanced prototypes that convert fuel into electricity through a unique, low-temperature reaction of air and fuel. This innovative approach allows Mainspring to offer generators that provide affordable, reliable electricity while significantly reducing carbon emissions compared to traditional electric grids. The company's mission is to address climate change and enhance energy accessibility, contributing to the development of net-zero carbon energy systems for the future.
Spiritus is a climate technology company specializing in direct-air-capture systems. Its innovative approach combines the Spiritus Sorbent and Carbon Orchard, offering a scalable, modular solution for low-cost carbon dioxide removal and sequestration.
Resource Chemical
Venture Round in 2025
ReSource Chemical is a company based in Berkeley, California, focused on developing high-performance plastics derived from carbon dioxide. The company utilizes a proprietary bio-based platform to create chemicals that enable the production of environmentally friendly plastics with superior physical properties compared to traditional fossil fuel-based plastics. By converting CO2 into these innovative materials, ReSource Chemical aims to provide sustainable alternatives that do not contribute to environmental pollution.
Sonocharge Energy
Venture Round in 2025
Sonocharge Energy develops platform technology that enhances battery charging capabilities. This innovation targets diverse markets such as electric vehicles, e-mobility devices (electric bikes, scooters), aerospace, electric airplanes, and drones.
Fortera is a company focused on developing innovative solutions for the cement and concrete industry with the aim of significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions. It has created a process that captures industrial carbon dioxide emissions and mineralizes them to produce a more environmentally friendly form of concrete. This method not only addresses the substantial carbon footprint associated with traditional concrete production but also offers improved performance characteristics. By providing sustainable alternatives to conventional cement products, Fortera contributes to global efforts to mitigate climate change and enhance the environmental sustainability of construction practices.
Planted Solar
Series A in 2024
Planted Solar develops and deploys solar power plants using a rapid deployment platform that increases energy output per acre and accelerates project delivery. It combines development software, terrain-adaptive high-density racking, and automated construction to build flexible, all-terrain power plants. Through advanced site planning and logistics, the company aims to maximize land use and streamline solar development, enabling faster, scalable deployment of clean energy.
Koloma is a company specializing in geologic hydrogen production. It leverages proprietary technology, data, and expertise to identify and develop geologic hydrogen resources. The company's data-driven approach aims to reduce global carbon emissions, enabling businesses to lower their environmental impact.
Zordi
Venture Round in 2023
Zordi is a developer of autonomous greenhouse technology that combines robotics and artificial intelligence to automate agricultural operations. The platform uses modular greenhouse units that can be deployed near urban centers, allowing for the cultivation of fresh, organically grown fruits and vegetables. Its AI system manages tasks such as pest control, irrigation, and harvesting, while robots handle precise planting, picking, and packing. By reducing manual labor and increasing efficiency, the solution offers a reliable and cost‑effective way to produce high‑quality produce for local markets. The company’s focus on automation and sustainability positions it as a key player in modern urban agriculture.
Spiritus is a climate technology company specializing in direct-air-capture systems. Its innovative approach combines the Spiritus Sorbent and Carbon Orchard, offering a scalable, modular solution for low-cost carbon dioxide removal and sequestration.
Founded in 2005, LanzaTech is a pioneering carbon recycling company that converts industrial waste gases into fuel ethanol and other valuable products. Its innovative bio-catalytic toolkits enable gas fermentation microbes to recycle carbon emissions from sources like steel mills and landfills, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting a circular economy.
Mainspring
Series E in 2022
Mainspring Energy, Inc. is a technology company based in Menlo Park, California, that specializes in developing linear generator technology for low carbon, dispatchable energy solutions. Founded in 2010 by three Stanford engineers, the company focuses on creating advanced prototypes that convert fuel into electricity through a unique, low-temperature reaction of air and fuel. This innovative approach allows Mainspring to offer generators that provide affordable, reliable electricity while significantly reducing carbon emissions compared to traditional electric grids. The company's mission is to address climate change and enhance energy accessibility, contributing to the development of net-zero carbon energy systems for the future.
Sonocharge Energy
Seed Round in 2022
Sonocharge Energy develops platform technology that enhances battery charging capabilities. This innovation targets diverse markets such as electric vehicles, e-mobility devices (electric bikes, scooters), aerospace, electric airplanes, and drones.
Nitricity
Venture Round in 2022
Nitricity is an energy company focused on renewable nitrogen fertilizer production with zero carbon emissions. It develops electrified, climate-smart fertilizer products and manufactures nitric acid and ammonia, which can be used separately or combined to produce ammonium nitrate fertilizer. The approach aims to bring products closer to farmers, enable timely application, reduce runoff, and maximize nitrogen delivery on a global scale.
Mainspring
Series E in 2022
Mainspring Energy, Inc. is a technology company based in Menlo Park, California, that specializes in developing linear generator technology for low carbon, dispatchable energy solutions. Founded in 2010 by three Stanford engineers, the company focuses on creating advanced prototypes that convert fuel into electricity through a unique, low-temperature reaction of air and fuel. This innovative approach allows Mainspring to offer generators that provide affordable, reliable electricity while significantly reducing carbon emissions compared to traditional electric grids. The company's mission is to address climate change and enhance energy accessibility, contributing to the development of net-zero carbon energy systems for the future.
Leaft Foods
Series A in 2022
Leaft Foods focuses on reducing the environmental impact of food production by harnessing Rubisco, a plentiful plant-based protein found in green leaves. The company extracts this protein through a sustainable 'paddock to production' process, creating ingredients for sustainable and nutritious food products.
Aether Diamonds
Series A in 2022
Aether Diamonds produces the world's first and only diamonds made 100% from captured carbon. Certified B Corp. 2022 Fast Company Top 10 Most Innovative Consumer Goods Companies. 2022 "Best for the World" B Corp.
Culdesac Inc. is a real estate development company based in San Francisco, California, focused on creating car-free residential neighborhoods in the United States. Established in 2018, the company's first project is in Tempe, Arizona, where it aims to build the first car-free neighborhood from scratch in the country. This innovative approach prioritizes pedestrian accessibility and eco-friendly living by eliminating parking spaces for residents while providing designated areas for visitors. The neighborhood will feature essential services such as grocery stores, coffee shops, coworking spaces, and market halls, allowing residents to engage with their community directly from their doorsteps. Culdesac's vision is to reimagine urban living by putting people before cars, fostering a sustainable and vibrant lifestyle.
Mimica develops a patented, bio-responsive label called 'Bump' for perishable products. Bump changes texture based on actual temperature conditions to indicate product freshness accurately and reduce waste.
Vertical Oceans
Seed Round in 2021
Vertical Oceans specializes in sustainable aquaculture, producing same-day farm-to-fork shrimp using vertical towers in urban markets. Their innovative system, the Intelligent Habitat (iHAB), combines bioengineering, hardware engineering, and computational methods to create a self-sustaining, self-cleaning modular production environment. This results in high-quality shrimp with excellent sustainability credentials.
Juno Residential, Inc. is a company focused on the development of residential apartments, incorporating innovative construction methods to provide environmentally friendly housing solutions. Based in San Francisco, California, Juno specializes in prefabricated houses, utilizing techniques that emphasize speed and efficiency. The company is committed to sustainability, employing organic and low-carbon materials, such as mass timber, in its projects. By offering modern and curated living spaces, Juno aims to address the growing demand for sustainable housing alternatives in urban environments. Founded in 2018, Juno Residential, Inc. was previously known as Lighthouse Residential, Inc.
Fortera is a company focused on developing innovative solutions for the cement and concrete industry with the aim of significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions. It has created a process that captures industrial carbon dioxide emissions and mineralizes them to produce a more environmentally friendly form of concrete. This method not only addresses the substantial carbon footprint associated with traditional concrete production but also offers improved performance characteristics. By providing sustainable alternatives to conventional cement products, Fortera contributes to global efforts to mitigate climate change and enhance the environmental sustainability of construction practices.
Mainspring
Series D in 2021
Mainspring Energy, Inc. is a technology company based in Menlo Park, California, that specializes in developing linear generator technology for low carbon, dispatchable energy solutions. Founded in 2010 by three Stanford engineers, the company focuses on creating advanced prototypes that convert fuel into electricity through a unique, low-temperature reaction of air and fuel. This innovative approach allows Mainspring to offer generators that provide affordable, reliable electricity while significantly reducing carbon emissions compared to traditional electric grids. The company's mission is to address climate change and enhance energy accessibility, contributing to the development of net-zero carbon energy systems for the future.
Juno Residential, Inc. is a company focused on the development of residential apartments, incorporating innovative construction methods to provide environmentally friendly housing solutions. Based in San Francisco, California, Juno specializes in prefabricated houses, utilizing techniques that emphasize speed and efficiency. The company is committed to sustainability, employing organic and low-carbon materials, such as mass timber, in its projects. By offering modern and curated living spaces, Juno aims to address the growing demand for sustainable housing alternatives in urban environments. Founded in 2018, Juno Residential, Inc. was previously known as Lighthouse Residential, Inc.
Culdesac
Venture Round in 2019
Culdesac Inc. is a real estate development company based in San Francisco, California, focused on creating car-free residential neighborhoods in the United States. Established in 2018, the company's first project is in Tempe, Arizona, where it aims to build the first car-free neighborhood from scratch in the country. This innovative approach prioritizes pedestrian accessibility and eco-friendly living by eliminating parking spaces for residents while providing designated areas for visitors. The neighborhood will feature essential services such as grocery stores, coffee shops, coworking spaces, and market halls, allowing residents to engage with their community directly from their doorsteps. Culdesac's vision is to reimagine urban living by putting people before cars, fostering a sustainable and vibrant lifestyle.
Mainspring
Series C in 2018
Mainspring Energy, Inc. is a technology company based in Menlo Park, California, that specializes in developing linear generator technology for low carbon, dispatchable energy solutions. Founded in 2010 by three Stanford engineers, the company focuses on creating advanced prototypes that convert fuel into electricity through a unique, low-temperature reaction of air and fuel. This innovative approach allows Mainspring to offer generators that provide affordable, reliable electricity while significantly reducing carbon emissions compared to traditional electric grids. The company's mission is to address climate change and enhance energy accessibility, contributing to the development of net-zero carbon energy systems for the future.
Sakti3, Inc. is a Michigan-based company focused on the development of solid-state rechargeable lithium-ion battery technology. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Ann Arbor, the company aims to enhance battery performance for electric vehicles and portable electronics. By creating solid-state battery cells, Sakti3 seeks to provide a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional battery technologies, facilitating the transition to electric-powered transportation and devices. As of 2015, Sakti3 operates as a subsidiary of Dyson Ltd.
LanzaTech
Series D in 2014
Founded in 2005, LanzaTech is a pioneering carbon recycling company that converts industrial waste gases into fuel ethanol and other valuable products. Its innovative bio-catalytic toolkits enable gas fermentation microbes to recycle carbon emissions from sources like steel mills and landfills, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting a circular economy.
LanzaTech
Series C in 2013
Founded in 2005, LanzaTech is a pioneering carbon recycling company that converts industrial waste gases into fuel ethanol and other valuable products. Its innovative bio-catalytic toolkits enable gas fermentation microbes to recycle carbon emissions from sources like steel mills and landfills, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting a circular economy.
KiOR, Inc. is a renewable fuels company that specializes in the production of cellulosic gasoline and diesel derived from lignocellulosic biomass. Utilizing its proprietary biomass-to-cellulosic fuel technology platform, the company aims to provide sustainable fuel alternatives to refiners, terminal and rack owners, as well as fleet operators. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Pasadena, Texas, KiOR is committed to addressing the growing demand for renewable energy solutions in the transportation sector.
GreenLight Biosciences
Series A in 2013
GreenLight Biosciences is a biotechnology company specializing in RNA-based solutions for agriculture and pharmaceutical applications. It develops mRNA vaccines, including COVID-19 candidates, and offers sustainable crop protection technologies using its proprietary cell-free production platform.
Segetis, Inc. is a green chemistry company based in Golden Valley, Minnesota, specializing in the development, production, and commercialization of renewable polymers. Founded in 2006, Segetis focuses on a platform of binary monomers derived from renewable feedstocks, including non-food agricultural and forestry materials. The company's innovative technology supports the production of a range of industrial bioproducts such as bio-plastics, surfactants, plasticizers, adhesives, and coalescent solvents, catering to specialty chemical applications. Segetis's chemistries create opportunities for product enablement and synergies across various industries, including those involved in the processing of starch, sugar crops, wood, cellulose, and paper pulp, as well as the chemical processing of vegetable oils and the manufacturing of biodiesel and linear alpha-olefins.
Solum develops a field-deployable measurement tool designed to provide farmers with immediate insights into soil nutrient requirements. By enabling precise fertilizer application, Solum helps farmers optimize costs and enhance crop yields. The technology not only supports agricultural efficiency but also promotes sustainability by minimizing nitrogen runoff, which contributes to aquatic dead zones, and addressing nitrous oxide emissions, a significant greenhouse gas linked to ozone depletion. Through its innovative soil testing services, Solum aims to transform farming practices for better environmental outcomes.
NanoH2O
Venture Round in 2012
NanoH2O is a manufacturer specializing in advanced reverse osmosis membranes designed for water desalination and reuse. The company enhances traditional polymer-based membranes by incorporating a nano-structured material, which improves key membrane properties such as throughput, salt and contaminant rejection, and fouling resistance. NanoH2O's membranes are suitable for various applications, including seawater and brackish water desalination, as well as wastewater reclamation. By focusing on these innovations, the company aims to lower the costs associated with desalination while simultaneously enhancing energy efficiency and productivity in water treatment processes.
KiOR, Inc. is a renewable fuels company that specializes in the production of cellulosic gasoline and diesel derived from lignocellulosic biomass. Utilizing its proprietary biomass-to-cellulosic fuel technology platform, the company aims to provide sustainable fuel alternatives to refiners, terminal and rack owners, as well as fleet operators. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Pasadena, Texas, KiOR is committed to addressing the growing demand for renewable energy solutions in the transportation sector.
Driptech India Pvt
Series A in 2012
Driptech India Pvt is an international water technologies company headquartered in Silicon Valley, with additional offices in Pune and Beijing. The company specializes in developing affordable and high-quality drip irrigation systems tailored for small-plot farmers. Utilizing proprietary manufacturing systems, Driptech produces easy-to-use and maintenance-free irrigation solutions that enhance water efficiency for agricultural use. Its products are distributed through various channels, including local governments, corporate partners, and NGOs, primarily in India and China. By enabling farmers to optimize limited water resources, Driptech supports the cultivation of high-value crops, thereby contributing to improved agricultural productivity and sustainability.
NanoH2O
Venture Round in 2011
NanoH2O is a manufacturer specializing in advanced reverse osmosis membranes designed for water desalination and reuse. The company enhances traditional polymer-based membranes by incorporating a nano-structured material, which improves key membrane properties such as throughput, salt and contaminant rejection, and fouling resistance. NanoH2O's membranes are suitable for various applications, including seawater and brackish water desalination, as well as wastewater reclamation. By focusing on these innovations, the company aims to lower the costs associated with desalination while simultaneously enhancing energy efficiency and productivity in water treatment processes.
Soraa is a cleantech startup specializing in LED technology and lasers, with a focus on producing high-quality, natural light. The company has pioneered full-spectrum color rendering LED light using proprietary technology manufactured in California. Soraa's products are designed to enhance well-being, productivity, and emotional states by mimicking natural light indoors. The company conducts research to develop insights and expertise for delivering breakthrough lighting solutions.
Solum develops a field-deployable measurement tool designed to provide farmers with immediate insights into soil nutrient requirements. By enabling precise fertilizer application, Solum helps farmers optimize costs and enhance crop yields. The technology not only supports agricultural efficiency but also promotes sustainability by minimizing nitrogen runoff, which contributes to aquatic dead zones, and addressing nitrous oxide emissions, a significant greenhouse gas linked to ozone depletion. Through its innovative soil testing services, Solum aims to transform farming practices for better environmental outcomes.
QuantumScape
Venture Round in 2011
QuantumScape is a renewable energy company focused on advancing solid-state battery technology to enhance the performance and range of electric vehicles. Founded in 2010 by Jagdeep Singh in San Jose, California, the company aims to transform the battery industry by creating a solid-state battery that offers significantly higher energy storage capacity compared to traditional batteries. QuantumScape is developing next-generation solid-state lithium-metal batteries, featuring an innovative anode-less cell design that improves energy density while reducing material costs and streamlining manufacturing processes. Through these advancements, QuantumScape seeks to facilitate the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
LS9, known as the Renewable Petroleum Company, is a privately-held industrial biotechnology firm based in South San Francisco, California. The company focuses on the development and production of patent-pending UltraClean fuels and sustainable chemicals utilizing synthetic biology. By harnessing advanced industrial synthetic biology techniques, LS9 aims to create renewable petroleum biofuels that serve as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional fossil fuels.
EchoFirst
Series B in 2010
EchoFirst is a manufacturer specializing in integrated solar energy systems designed to meet the electric and heating needs of residential properties. Its innovative Echo solar systems surpass the energy output of traditional photovoltaic systems by generating electricity along with hot water for household uses such as washing and bathing, as well as providing thermal energy for home heating and cooling. The company serves a diverse clientele, including homeowners, installation partners, and developers of new homes, aiming to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability in residential environments.
Sakti3, Inc. is a Michigan-based company focused on the development of solid-state rechargeable lithium-ion battery technology. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Ann Arbor, the company aims to enhance battery performance for electric vehicles and portable electronics. By creating solid-state battery cells, Sakti3 seeks to provide a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional battery technologies, facilitating the transition to electric-powered transportation and devices. As of 2015, Sakti3 operates as a subsidiary of Dyson Ltd.
Kior
Private Equity Round in 2010
KiOR, Inc. is a renewable fuels company that specializes in the production of cellulosic gasoline and diesel derived from lignocellulosic biomass. Utilizing its proprietary biomass-to-cellulosic fuel technology platform, the company aims to provide sustainable fuel alternatives to refiners, terminal and rack owners, as well as fleet operators. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Pasadena, Texas, KiOR is committed to addressing the growing demand for renewable energy solutions in the transportation sector.
LanzaTech
Series B in 2010
Founded in 2005, LanzaTech is a pioneering carbon recycling company that converts industrial waste gases into fuel ethanol and other valuable products. Its innovative bio-catalytic toolkits enable gas fermentation microbes to recycle carbon emissions from sources like steel mills and landfills, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting a circular economy.
Solum develops a field-deployable measurement tool designed to provide farmers with immediate insights into soil nutrient requirements. By enabling precise fertilizer application, Solum helps farmers optimize costs and enhance crop yields. The technology not only supports agricultural efficiency but also promotes sustainability by minimizing nitrogen runoff, which contributes to aquatic dead zones, and addressing nitrous oxide emissions, a significant greenhouse gas linked to ozone depletion. Through its innovative soil testing services, Solum aims to transform farming practices for better environmental outcomes.
Segetis, Inc. is a green chemistry company based in Golden Valley, Minnesota, specializing in the development, production, and commercialization of renewable polymers. Founded in 2006, Segetis focuses on a platform of binary monomers derived from renewable feedstocks, including non-food agricultural and forestry materials. The company's innovative technology supports the production of a range of industrial bioproducts such as bio-plastics, surfactants, plasticizers, adhesives, and coalescent solvents, catering to specialty chemical applications. Segetis's chemistries create opportunities for product enablement and synergies across various industries, including those involved in the processing of starch, sugar crops, wood, cellulose, and paper pulp, as well as the chemical processing of vegetable oils and the manufacturing of biodiesel and linear alpha-olefins.
Nordic Windpower
Series C in 2010
Nordic’s N1000, a simple, light-weight 1MW wind turbine is known for its unsurpassed ease of installation and maintenance, exceptional reliability, and low cost of energy generation.
Nordic Windpower is a technology developer and manufacturer of innovative, two-bladed wind turbines for the rapidly expanding global wind market.
Mainspring
Seed Round in 2010
Mainspring Energy, Inc. is a technology company based in Menlo Park, California, that specializes in developing linear generator technology for low carbon, dispatchable energy solutions. Founded in 2010 by three Stanford engineers, the company focuses on creating advanced prototypes that convert fuel into electricity through a unique, low-temperature reaction of air and fuel. This innovative approach allows Mainspring to offer generators that provide affordable, reliable electricity while significantly reducing carbon emissions compared to traditional electric grids. The company's mission is to address climate change and enhance energy accessibility, contributing to the development of net-zero carbon energy systems for the future.
QuantumScape
Seed Round in 2010
QuantumScape is a renewable energy company focused on advancing solid-state battery technology to enhance the performance and range of electric vehicles. Founded in 2010 by Jagdeep Singh in San Jose, California, the company aims to transform the battery industry by creating a solid-state battery that offers significantly higher energy storage capacity compared to traditional batteries. QuantumScape is developing next-generation solid-state lithium-metal batteries, featuring an innovative anode-less cell design that improves energy density while reducing material costs and streamlining manufacturing processes. Through these advancements, QuantumScape seeks to facilitate the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
LS9, known as the Renewable Petroleum Company, is a privately-held industrial biotechnology firm based in South San Francisco, California. The company focuses on the development and production of patent-pending UltraClean fuels and sustainable chemicals utilizing synthetic biology. By harnessing advanced industrial synthetic biology techniques, LS9 aims to create renewable petroleum biofuels that serve as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional fossil fuels.
Ausra
Venture Round in 2009
Ausra is a manufacturer and developer of utility-scale solar technologies aimed at addressing global electricity demands in an environmentally responsible manner. The company specializes in solar thermal power infrastructure, particularly through its compact linear Fresnel reflector systems, which utilize focused sunlight to boil water and generate high-pressure steam that powers conventional turbine generators. Ausra is also advancing low-cost thermal energy storage systems, enabling the generation of solar electric power on demand, both during daylight and nighttime hours. By providing zero-carbon power plants, Ausra offers a viable alternative to fossil-fuel-based electricity generation, delivering energy at competitive market prices while minimizing emissions associated with traditional fuel combustion.
Sakti3, Inc. is a Michigan-based company focused on the development of solid-state rechargeable lithium-ion battery technology. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Ann Arbor, the company aims to enhance battery performance for electric vehicles and portable electronics. By creating solid-state battery cells, Sakti3 seeks to provide a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional battery technologies, facilitating the transition to electric-powered transportation and devices. As of 2015, Sakti3 operates as a subsidiary of Dyson Ltd.
Calera Corporation is focused on carbon sequestration, aiming to combat global warming and ocean acidification by capturing greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide, from the atmosphere. Established in 2007 and headquartered in Los Gatos, California, the company works to reduce atmospheric carbon levels through innovative technologies. Calera has formed a strategic alliance with Bechtel Power Corporation to enhance its efforts in this domain.
Ausra is a manufacturer and developer of utility-scale solar technologies aimed at addressing global electricity demands in an environmentally responsible manner. The company specializes in solar thermal power infrastructure, particularly through its compact linear Fresnel reflector systems, which utilize focused sunlight to boil water and generate high-pressure steam that powers conventional turbine generators. Ausra is also advancing low-cost thermal energy storage systems, enabling the generation of solar electric power on demand, both during daylight and nighttime hours. By providing zero-carbon power plants, Ausra offers a viable alternative to fossil-fuel-based electricity generation, delivering energy at competitive market prices while minimizing emissions associated with traditional fuel combustion.
KiOR, Inc. is a renewable fuels company that specializes in the production of cellulosic gasoline and diesel derived from lignocellulosic biomass. Utilizing its proprietary biomass-to-cellulosic fuel technology platform, the company aims to provide sustainable fuel alternatives to refiners, terminal and rack owners, as well as fleet operators. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Pasadena, Texas, KiOR is committed to addressing the growing demand for renewable energy solutions in the transportation sector.
Ausra
Debt Financing in 2008
Ausra is a manufacturer and developer of utility-scale solar technologies aimed at addressing global electricity demands in an environmentally responsible manner. The company specializes in solar thermal power infrastructure, particularly through its compact linear Fresnel reflector systems, which utilize focused sunlight to boil water and generate high-pressure steam that powers conventional turbine generators. Ausra is also advancing low-cost thermal energy storage systems, enabling the generation of solar electric power on demand, both during daylight and nighttime hours. By providing zero-carbon power plants, Ausra offers a viable alternative to fossil-fuel-based electricity generation, delivering energy at competitive market prices while minimizing emissions associated with traditional fuel combustion.
Soraa
Venture Round in 2008
Soraa is a cleantech startup specializing in LED technology and lasers, with a focus on producing high-quality, natural light. The company has pioneered full-spectrum color rendering LED light using proprietary technology manufactured in California. Soraa's products are designed to enhance well-being, productivity, and emotional states by mimicking natural light indoors. The company conducts research to develop insights and expertise for delivering breakthrough lighting solutions.
KiOR, Inc. is a renewable fuels company that specializes in the production of cellulosic gasoline and diesel derived from lignocellulosic biomass. Utilizing its proprietary biomass-to-cellulosic fuel technology platform, the company aims to provide sustainable fuel alternatives to refiners, terminal and rack owners, as well as fleet operators. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Pasadena, Texas, KiOR is committed to addressing the growing demand for renewable energy solutions in the transportation sector.
LS9, known as the Renewable Petroleum Company, is a privately-held industrial biotechnology firm based in South San Francisco, California. The company focuses on the development and production of patent-pending UltraClean fuels and sustainable chemicals utilizing synthetic biology. By harnessing advanced industrial synthetic biology techniques, LS9 aims to create renewable petroleum biofuels that serve as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional fossil fuels.
Ausra is a manufacturer and developer of utility-scale solar technologies aimed at addressing global electricity demands in an environmentally responsible manner. The company specializes in solar thermal power infrastructure, particularly through its compact linear Fresnel reflector systems, which utilize focused sunlight to boil water and generate high-pressure steam that powers conventional turbine generators. Ausra is also advancing low-cost thermal energy storage systems, enabling the generation of solar electric power on demand, both during daylight and nighttime hours. By providing zero-carbon power plants, Ausra offers a viable alternative to fossil-fuel-based electricity generation, delivering energy at competitive market prices while minimizing emissions associated with traditional fuel combustion.
NanoH2O
Venture Round in 2007
NanoH2O is a manufacturer specializing in advanced reverse osmosis membranes designed for water desalination and reuse. The company enhances traditional polymer-based membranes by incorporating a nano-structured material, which improves key membrane properties such as throughput, salt and contaminant rejection, and fouling resistance. NanoH2O's membranes are suitable for various applications, including seawater and brackish water desalination, as well as wastewater reclamation. By focusing on these innovations, the company aims to lower the costs associated with desalination while simultaneously enhancing energy efficiency and productivity in water treatment processes.
Segetis, Inc. is a green chemistry company based in Golden Valley, Minnesota, specializing in the development, production, and commercialization of renewable polymers. Founded in 2006, Segetis focuses on a platform of binary monomers derived from renewable feedstocks, including non-food agricultural and forestry materials. The company's innovative technology supports the production of a range of industrial bioproducts such as bio-plastics, surfactants, plasticizers, adhesives, and coalescent solvents, catering to specialty chemical applications. Segetis's chemistries create opportunities for product enablement and synergies across various industries, including those involved in the processing of starch, sugar crops, wood, cellulose, and paper pulp, as well as the chemical processing of vegetable oils and the manufacturing of biodiesel and linear alpha-olefins.
LanzaTech
Series A in 2007
Founded in 2005, LanzaTech is a pioneering carbon recycling company that converts industrial waste gases into fuel ethanol and other valuable products. Its innovative bio-catalytic toolkits enable gas fermentation microbes to recycle carbon emissions from sources like steel mills and landfills, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting a circular economy.
LS9, known as the Renewable Petroleum Company, is a privately-held industrial biotechnology firm based in South San Francisco, California. The company focuses on the development and production of patent-pending UltraClean fuels and sustainable chemicals utilizing synthetic biology. By harnessing advanced industrial synthetic biology techniques, LS9 aims to create renewable petroleum biofuels that serve as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional fossil fuels.
Zordi is a developer of autonomous greenhouse technology that combines robotics and artificial intelligence to automate agricultural operations. The platform uses modular greenhouse units that can be deployed near urban centers, allowing for the cultivation of fresh, organically grown fruits and vegetables. Its AI system manages tasks such as pest control, irrigation, and harvesting, while robots handle precise planting, picking, and packing. By reducing manual labor and increasing efficiency, the solution offers a reliable and cost‑effective way to produce high‑quality produce for local markets. The company’s focus on automation and sustainability positions it as a key player in modern urban agriculture.