MassChallenge

Solumar specializes in advanced air and gas filtration technologies aimed at reducing emissions from heavy industries, including city councils, maritime operations, and oil and gas companies. The company’s innovative approach incorporates seawater and principles from aviation to effectively capture black carbon and greenhouse gas emissions. By focusing on efficiency and sustainability, Solumar assists its clients in complying with the Agenda 2050 goals for emission reduction while offering cost-effective solutions for managing air pollution.

Climatenza is a solar thermal company based in Santiago, Chile, founded in 2018. The company specializes in innovative technology solutions aimed at enhancing sustainability in energy. Climatenza focuses on generating electricity from solar energy through concentrating solar thermal technologies, providing high-value energy to utilities and heat for industrial applications. Additionally, the company offers renewable energy consultancy services, which include assessing energy needs, conducting feasibility studies, and developing strategies for integrating photovoltaic systems. By harnessing solar radiation for utility-grade hybrid electricity generation, Climatenza supports clients in transitioning to clean energy and contributes to efforts against climate change while fostering local community development.

Billbuds is a utility management company that simplifies the process of setting up and managing essential services for renters. Through its platform, users can manage all their utilities—such as electricity, gas, internet, cable, and water—from a single dashboard. Billbuds offers a feature that estimates utility costs before moving in and provides a consolidated invoice at the end of each billing cycle, which can be easily split among roommates. The platform allows for flexible payment options, enabling users to choose between a fixed monthly payment or a pay-as-you-use model. Additionally, it tracks and benchmarks utility consumption, helping renters stay informed about their usage and expenses.

To-U is a software platform focused on managing and monetizing electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. It offers a user-friendly experience that allows EV drivers to reserve charging stations in advance, enhancing convenience and confidence in the charging process. The platform not only facilitates access to charging but also integrates additional services and amenities for users while they charge their vehicles. By increasing foot traffic to charging locations, To-U helps environmentally responsible businesses reduce customer acquisition costs while simultaneously improving customer satisfaction and loyalty. This innovative approach positions To-U as a leader in the EV charging management sector, promoting a seamless and efficient charging experience.

eCredable is a data furnisher that assists consumers and small business owners in establishing and improving their credit scores by allowing them to report utility and phone bill payments to TransUnion. Founded with the aim of addressing the gap in credit reporting, eCredable Lift enables users to leverage their payment history for better credit access, as many traditional credit bureaus do not account for these essential payments. This service targets approximately 45 million consumers who can immediately benefit, with an additional 80 million potentially able to improve their credit profiles. For small business owners, eCredable Lift facilitates the reporting of business-related expenses that typically go unreported, which can help them develop a business credit score. This is particularly important, as 85% of businesses lack a credit score from major business credit bureaus, thus limiting their financial opportunities.

Quempin SpA specializes in providing innovative combustion technology aimed at facilitating the transition from polluting fuel sources to cleaner alternatives in the heat sector. The company offers efficient gas burners designed to significantly reduce gas fuel consumption by at least 20%, making it easier for businesses to adopt cleaner energy solutions. Quempin’s services include the design, installation, and repair of gas equipment, as well as engineering support for industrial process conversions and remodeling. The company focuses on porous media burners and gas installations, emphasizing clean combustion and the reduction of gas emissions. By offering cost-effective solutions that require no upfront investment for companies currently using coal or firewood, Quempin helps businesses manage the transition to sustainable energy sources while ensuring ongoing maintenance and technical support through authorized technicians.

ALP Technologies is a renewable energy engineering start-up from London. It focuses on developing renewable energy technologies for the developing world. Since founding in 2015, it has won multiple awards and funded research and development projects such as advanced battery systems on recycled cells, novel biogas generation, and power electronic and control systems. Its small-scale power plant for developing regions uses solar, bio-ethanol, and agricultural waste to generate uninterrupted electricity. It aims to displace diesel generation and fossil fuel based power plants and leapfrog grid infrastructure in the developing world.

Spacept AB specializes in artificial intelligence-driven infrastructure security solutions, focusing on the analysis of satellite images to enhance safety and efficiency. Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, with additional offices in Brooklyn, New York, the company utilizes its machine learning engine to identify potential hazards such as falling trees and storm impacts that could lead to power outages and fires. By providing comprehensive infrastructure inspection software, Spacept helps clients in the oil and gas sectors, as well as other industries, detect and monitor structural faults effectively. Their solutions not only aim to save lives but also contribute to reducing carbon dioxide emissions, significantly lowering the time and cost associated with traditional infrastructure inspections.

Posh is a conversational AI and NLP technology development company that enables developers to deliver a new way to interact with users. With Posh, website actions that takes minutes to complete can be sped up to just seconds with a simple message from bots. Companies in finanical services, healthcare, utilities, and beyond are using the Posh platform to re-create call centers and automate routine requests for both customers and staff while saving time and money. The company wants to make the internet experience easier and more enjoyable. Posh was launched on 2015 and is based in Boston, Massachusetts.

Posh is a conversational AI and NLP technology development company that enables developers to deliver a new way to interact with users. With Posh, website actions that takes minutes to complete can be sped up to just seconds with a simple message from bots. Companies in finanical services, healthcare, utilities, and beyond are using the Posh platform to re-create call centers and automate routine requests for both customers and staff while saving time and money. The company wants to make the internet experience easier and more enjoyable. Posh was launched on 2015 and is based in Boston, Massachusetts.

Liquid Logical specializes in a patented heating technology that instantly brings water to its boiling point without the need for storage tanks. This innovative device provides a continuous supply of boiling water on demand, making it suitable for integration into various everyday applications, including kitchens, fridge doors, kitchen worktops, and commercial coffee machines. The technology presents scalable opportunities for consumers and businesses alike while contributing positively to global water-saving initiatives.

Posh is a conversational AI and NLP technology development company that enables developers to deliver a new way to interact with users. With Posh, website actions that takes minutes to complete can be sped up to just seconds with a simple message from bots. Companies in finanical services, healthcare, utilities, and beyond are using the Posh platform to re-create call centers and automate routine requests for both customers and staff while saving time and money. The company wants to make the internet experience easier and more enjoyable. Posh was launched on 2015 and is based in Boston, Massachusetts.

CPlantae is a water solution company. They provide services that include vermifiltration, domestic wastewater systems, ecotechnologies, and consulting. Their customers' inquiries are addressed through phone, email, and online applications.

Camberline Technologies is a company that specializes in a sensor-driven platform designed to monitor electricity usage and promote energy conservation. The platform provides billing-ready data that integrates with existing billing systems, facilitating efficient energy management. By delivering actionable insights, Camberline encourages consumers to adopt more sustainable electricity usage habits, often through attractive incentives. This approach not only supports individual energy conservation efforts but also contributes to broader community sustainability goals.

DrizzleX Ltd develops an innovative water metering solution aimed at promoting water conservation in residential buildings lacking individual apartment meters. The company offers a platform that combines IoT micrometers with a software-as-a-service dashboard, providing real-time data on water usage. This system allows property managers and tenants to monitor consumption patterns, identify leaks, and encourage responsible water usage, ultimately leading to reductions in water bills by 20-40% or more. By empowering tenants to take control of their water consumption and offering property owners tools to manage expenses effectively, DrizzleX supports both economic and environmental sustainability. Founded in 2017 and based in Jerusalem, Israel, the company has expanded its installations across several states, including California, Nevada, Arizona, and New York.

Infinite Cooling Inc. specializes in water recovery systems designed for power plants and other industrial facilities. Founded in 2017 and based in Massachusetts, the company focuses on mitigating water scarcity by employing innovative technology that utilizes high-voltage electric fields to capture and recycle water evaporating from cooling towers. This approach allows power plants, data centers, and factories to significantly reduce water consumption and treatment costs, thereby promoting more sustainable operations. Through its efforts in wastewater management and recycling, Infinite Cooling aims to address environmental challenges related to water waste in industrial processes.

Watchtower Robotics specializes in developing advanced technology for detecting leaks in water distribution systems. Their innovative robot is designed to identify leaks early and accurately, minimizing the risk of water breaks and infrastructure damage. By operating without disrupting water service, the technology allows clients to implement preventative measures before significant leakage occurs. This proactive approach not only helps in preserving water resources but also reduces the potential for costly repairs and downtime associated with water infrastructure failures.

Global Water Labs provides technical assistance to current water providers looking for possibilities for community-scale defluoridation. Their assistance assists water providers in setting up a supply chain and distribution system to handle nearby bauxite, assess the quality of the groundwater, and make sure fluoride levels in treated water stay below the desired WHO-MCL.

Yotta Energy Inc. specializes in manufacturing innovative solar storage solutions, primarily through its flagship product, the SolarLEAF. This modular battery storage device integrates seamlessly with photovoltaic (PV) panels, offering passive thermal regulation to enhance efficiency. The SolarLEAF is designed to minimize the soft costs associated with the design, installation, and maintenance of energy storage systems, making it a cost-effective alternative to traditional centralized solutions. Additionally, Yotta Energy provides SolarPLEXUS, a gateway that enables the automated management and optimization of individual SolarLEAF units. The company also offers a software platform that aggregates energy potential from various systems, aiding utilities in grid management and helping system owners optimize their power usage and reduce costs. Founded in 2016 and based in Austin, Texas, Yotta Energy aims to enhance energy control and resilience through its innovative technologies.

Ilumexico is a B-Corporation focused on promoting community development in Mexico's most marginalized regions through solar energy solutions. The enterprise aims to enhance rural electrification by providing access to clean energy, utilizing microfinance schemes and offering long-term service and training for the use and maintenance of solar technologies. Their product offerings include solar water pumps, refrigerators, street lighting, solar fences, and grid-connected systems. Ilumexico believes that energy access serves as a foundation for broader development and runs programs and workshops on topics such as community organization, gender equity, and financial inclusion to empower these communities.

OffGridBox is a company that delivers renewable energy and clean water solutions in remote and underserved regions. The OffGridBox™ is a compact, all-in-one system housed within a shipping container measuring 6x6x6 feet, designed to produce electricity and purify water using solar energy. This innovative technology aims to address the needs of over 2 billion people globally who lack access to reliable energy and safe drinking water. Each unit can significantly impact local communities; for example, a single unit operated by a women’s cooperative in Rwanda can serve up to 300 families, providing essential electricity and sterilized water. OffGridBox has deployed 38 units across nine countries, including Italy, South Africa, Rwanda, Nigeria, the Philippines, Madagascar, the United States, and Colombia, catering to various sectors such as humanitarian aid, household retail, and industry services. These units have collectively operated for over 400,000 hours, promoting sustainable living and improving the quality of life in the areas they serve.

The Energy Audit is a reference point and provides practical support for all professionals dealing with energy efficiency: energy managers, energy consultants, ESCOs, utility providers and government institutions.

WaterComms is improving access to water across East Africa’s under-served populations. Through its mobile networking platform, WaterComms will increase the capacity, efficiency, and affordability of technical water services, thereby contributing to the long-term sustainability of drinking water facilities across the region.

Gaszen is a company focused on enhancing energy consumption experiences by providing an Internet of Things (IoT) gas management platform specifically for propane users. Serving a global market of approximately 3 billion people who rely on propane for cooking, heating, and hot water, Gaszen targets Mexico, the largest per capita consumer of propane in the Americas. The propane industry in Mexico represents a market worth around 8 billion. The company offers a device that connects stationary propane tanks to the internet, allowing for real-time monitoring of gas levels and consumption patterns. This platform facilitates connections between residential users, small and medium-sized businesses, gas suppliers, and dispatchers. It includes a user application for consumers, a control dashboard for businesses, and a management dashboard for gas suppliers. By replacing traditional analog meters with wireless sensors, Gaszen aims to provide transparency in propane consumption, helping users manage their energy use effectively and economically.

Gaszen is a company focused on enhancing energy consumption experiences by providing an Internet of Things (IoT) gas management platform specifically for propane users. Serving a global market of approximately 3 billion people who rely on propane for cooking, heating, and hot water, Gaszen targets Mexico, the largest per capita consumer of propane in the Americas. The propane industry in Mexico represents a market worth around 8 billion. The company offers a device that connects stationary propane tanks to the internet, allowing for real-time monitoring of gas levels and consumption patterns. This platform facilitates connections between residential users, small and medium-sized businesses, gas suppliers, and dispatchers. It includes a user application for consumers, a control dashboard for businesses, and a management dashboard for gas suppliers. By replacing traditional analog meters with wireless sensors, Gaszen aims to provide transparency in propane consumption, helping users manage their energy use effectively and economically.

Oorja Development Solutions aims to provide clean energy access to 450 million un/underelectrified people in rural Indian communities. It deploy smart micro-grids powered by biomass gasification and solar PV systems to generate, store and transmit reliable and affordable electricity to SMEs as anchor load and low-income households. It uses a scalable community-owned business model to leverage energy provision as a catalyst for socio-economic development to alleviate poverty, empower women and tackle climate change.

Surge Hydro is dedicated to modernizing hydroelectric facilities and enhancing their energy production capabilities. The company specializes in designing and manufacturing modular hydroelectric systems aimed at electrifying non-electricity-generating dams, of which there are over 80,000 in the United States. By implementing innovative technologies, Surge Hydro seeks to create independent sustainable grid networks that minimize transmission losses and empower communities to manage their own energy consumption and production. Their commitment to clean energy aligns with the growing demand for renewable energy infrastructure, positioning hydropower as a key component of future energy solutions. Surge Hydro aims to reduce operational costs through efficient and safe practices, ensuring reliable, sustainable, and renewable energy for the evolving needs of society.

Catalyst for World Water (CWW) focuses on addressing the global water crisis through innovative clean energy solutions. The company's core technology employs a photocatalytic composite that utilizes solar energy, which, when activated by sunlight, produces reactive oxygen species. These species effectively degrade organic contaminants and neutralize harmful bacteria, viruses, and protozoa in water. By leveraging solar energy, the most abundant renewable resource, along with a cost-effective and reusable catalyst, CWW aims to facilitate advancements towards a sustainable water future. This technology has the potential to transform the water industry and significantly improve public health by saving millions of lives worldwide.

Ubuntu Power focuses on enhancing the quality of life for millions of Sub-Saharan Africans who lack access to electricity, internet, and water. The company provides solar power and mobile services specifically designed for off-grid communities. By offering free solar energy and unrestricted internet access, Ubuntu Power aims to deliver clean and affordable electricity while increasing access to information for underserved populations.

UnDosTres is transforming the consumer payments landscape in Mexico with its innovative online payment platform that provides secure and reliable payment alternatives. The platform enables users to make payments for a wide range of services, including mobile and DTH recharges, electricity and water bills, movie tickets, and other utility expenses. By allowing payments through credit and debit cards, bank transfers, and digital wallets, UnDosTres streamlines online transactions, making it easier for Mexicans to manage their financial obligations. As one of the fastest-growing startups in the country, UnDosTres has garnered recognition as the Best Fintech Startup in Emerging Markets, underscoring its significant impact on the payments sector.

Empowerment Solar fosters energy independence and economic prosperity across the Middle East by supplying affordable and easy access to reliable and clean solar electricity. They design and install distributed solar electricity systems for Palestinian businesses in the West Bank, eventually expanding across the region. They save Palestinian firms (who pay 70% more than Americans for electricity) 1,000s of dollars annually and eliminate electricity-shortage constraints plaguing West Bank companies.

FuelDrop, is an up and coming start-up that formed out of MIT in the greater Boston area. For anyone living in a major city, filling up your car with gasoline can be a real pain. Limited gas stations coupled with high gas prices results in an experience that is dreaded by all. At fueldrop they ask ourselves, why are they still using this archaic method of getting gas? Why do they have thousands of cars driving to one gas station... what if the gas just came straight to your car? The team at fueldrop is creating a fuel delivery service so you will never have to go to a gas station again.

Open Energy Market is a technology-driven company that provides an online trading platform focused on energy buying and management for medium to large enterprises in the United Kingdom. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Guildford, Surrey, the company aims to simplify the procurement process by automating the management of energy contracts. Its platform captures and stores data, displaying prices offered by various suppliers, which enables clients to enhance reporting, forecasting, and portfolio management. By offering greater control and insight into the energy market, Open Energy Market helps businesses develop effective and sustainable energy strategies in a rapidly evolving industry.

CityTaps has created an innovative solution to improve access to water for urban populations in developing countries. The company offers a prepayment service that includes a smart and prepaid water meter alongside billing software, designed to empower water utilities to achieve financial independence. This enables them to invest in infrastructure that provides at-home water service, particularly for the poorest residents who lack access to running water. Beneficiaries can conveniently use mobile money to prepay for water, allowing them to manage their household budgets more effectively. The availability of running water in homes is not only more affordable but also enhances health and quality of life. CityTaps' approach has the potential to significantly uplift the lives of millions who currently do not have access to essential water services.

AquaFresco is transforming the cleaning industry with its innovative wastewater recycling system. Founded by a team that emerged from the MIT MADMEC competition in 2014, the company has advanced its technology from laboratory research to commercial application. Currently, AquaFresco's system is being tested in three pilot hotels and three commercial laundry facilities, with the potential to reduce water and detergent usage by up to 95%. The company holds full ownership of its intellectual property and has gained recognition in the community, winning the MassChallenge Gold Award in 2015 and receiving funding from MassCEC in 2016. AquaFresco is focused on completing product development and pilot testing in the near future.

Blackburn Energy, Inc. specializes in renewable energy solutions for the commercial trucking industry through its innovative product, RelGen. This technology harnesses kinetic energy from a truck's drive shaft, converting it into electricity via a custom alternator. The generated power is stored in a battery array, enabling it to supply energy to various truck subsystems including liftgates, electric auxiliary power units (APUs), and sensors for driver-assist and autonomous features. Blackburn Energy's solutions aim to reduce reliance on engine idling, thus cutting fuel and maintenance costs while minimizing carbon emissions. The company's products are particularly beneficial for long-haul drivers, providing essential power for climate control and operational needs during rest periods. Blackburn Energy was founded in 2008 and is headquartered in Amesbury, Massachusetts.

Advizzo Limited is a London-based company that has developed a cloud-based platform aimed at reducing water and energy consumption through data-driven behavioral solutions. Founded in 2015, the platform utilizes utility consumption data analytics and machine learning techniques to forecast future demand and detect leaks in household pipes. It serves both consumers and utility companies by offering personalized home usage reports, an online customer portal, and predictive analytics for utilities. By enhancing digital engagement and providing insights from household data, Advizzo aims to change how individuals perceive and manage their resource consumption, ultimately promoting the preservation of natural resources.

Loci Controls, Inc. specializes in the development and commercialization of an automated landfill gas collection system. The company offers Loci WellWatcher, a system featuring wellhead-mounted hardware and cloud-based monitoring and analytics that optimize methane extraction from landfills. By providing real-time monitoring of gas composition, pressure, temperature, and flow, Loci Controls has demonstrated the capability to enhance gas collection efficiency by over 20%, while also improving safety and reducing operational costs for landfill operators and energy utility customers in the United States. The company combines innovative sensor technology, continuous monitoring, advanced algorithms, and field service support to increase profitability and mitigate environmental, health, and safety risks. Founded in 2012 and based in Fall River, Massachusetts, Loci Controls is committed to advancing technology for the effective management of landfill gas resources.

RainBank Inc. is a civil engineering firm based in Newton, Massachusetts, established in 2012. The company specializes in constructing and installing distributed runoff collection storage systems on rooftops, utilizing trays with small holes to facilitate slow drainage and reduce flooding in lowland areas. RainBank's team has extensive experience in water sector technologies and funding strategies, which has enabled them to innovate in stormwater management. Their systems enhance existing passive stormwater infrastructure, allowing municipalities to optimize both current and new networks for improved efficiency and effectiveness in flood prevention.

Electric Pipeline Corporation has invented and is developing polymer insulated electric pipelines "elpipes" for transmission of 3-30 GW through a pair of underground HVDC lines. Elpipes fit inside a pipeline that is similar to a gas pipeline, or they may be installed at the surface on conventional or narrow gauge railroad tracks. The train like features of elpipes make them convenient to install and convenient to repair.

Sanergy, established in 2010, operates in Nairobi, Kenya, focusing on providing affordable and accessible sanitation solutions in urban slums. The company constructs and franchises low-cost sanitation centers offering toilets and hot showers, which are financed through local microfinance banks. Sanergy collects and processes human waste daily, converting it into biogas for electricity generation and organic fertilizer for sale to farms. Additionally, it collects organic waste from local businesses, transforming it into insect-based animal feed. By creating a circular economy, Sanergy promotes hygiene, reduces environmental pollution, and empowers local entrepreneurs.

Emergent Energy (Pty) Ltd. specializes in providing renewable energy solutions, including both grid-tied and off-grid systems, sustainable building design, and energy efficiency consulting. Founded in 2010 and based in Cape Town, South Africa, the company caters to a diverse clientele across various sectors, such as information and communication technology, agriculture, hospitality, education, and government. Its offerings include tailored solar photovoltaic systems, wind and hydro solutions, and Energy Heat Pump installations, all designed to meet the unique challenges of different environments. Emergent Energy also supports clients with comprehensive technical guidance and monitoring solutions to track system performance and ensure efficient operation and maintenance. With a commitment to enhancing the sustainability of South Africa’s energy sector, the company draws on extensive local and international expertise to deliver innovative solutions that promote cleaner and more reliable energy systems.