05/25/2021: The Biomimicry Institute has announced the top 10 nature-inspired startups to compete for the 2021 Ray of Hope Prize, a transformational program designed to help startups cross a critical threshold in scaling their sustainable solutions.
Spurred by the pressing environmental and social challenges of today, a growing number of scientists, inventors, and entrepreneurs are learning from nature and reimagining the way business is done. The Biomimicry Institute is proud to announce the top 10 nature-inspired startups selected to participate in the 2021 Ray of Hope Prize®, a transformational program designed to help startups cross a critical threshold in scaling their sustainable solutions. This 10-week virtual accelerator culminates in a live pitch for the chance to receive the $100,000 grand prize, funded by the Ray C. Anderson Foundation and awarded by industry and conservation leaders from the World Wildlife Fund, Patagonia, and Yale, among others. Additional equity-free funding will be available to participating companies.
Created in honor of Ray C. Anderson, founder of the global flooring manufacturer, Interface, Inc. and a pioneer in sustainable business transformation, the Ray of Hope Prize provides expert training and mentorship in sustainable business practices. Participants also receive guidance in science communication and storytelling techniques to amplify their reach and further support for their innovative solution. This year, the Institute received 301 applications from 49 countries for the 2021 Ray of Hope Prize. Each of the contending startups has the potential to reduce or eliminate many current extractive industries and practices, while revitalizing degraded ecosystems—a prize we all can celebrate.
Read more about the prize an the companies participating in the original release by CSR Wire