Local innovators tackle cleantech and industry challenges through I2N Accelerator
A group of diverse startups from the Hunter and Central Coast regions, with a focus on clean energy, sustainability, and industry innovation, will be showcased at the upcoming I2N Accelerator Demo Night.
With strong backing from the University of Newcastle and supporting a diverse group of founders across all industries, the Integrated Innovation Network (I2N) is proving to be a valuable local launchpad for businesses aiming to make a real impact across industries.
Supported by the Port of Newcastle and the Trailblazer for Recycling and Clean Energy (TRaCE), the recent I2N Accelerator (All-Industries and Cleantech) program offered clean tech specialist startups a range of resources to help them move from concept to market. Entrepreneurs accessed workshops, expert mentoring, weekly coaching, and peer networking, helping them navigate the complexities of building a business.
The specialist program has brought together a group of innovators tackling some of today’s most pressing challenges, from clean energy and waste reduction to beauty and biotechnology.
The All-Industries and Cleantech program was open to startups based in the Hunter and Central Coast regions, with a focus on cleantech and other innovative industries. This cohort is a mix of startups working on technologies ranging from green hydrogen production to revolutionary approaches in beauty and food industries, and 70% of these businesses are led by women. The accelerator offered these startups guidance and support as they validated their ideas, developed solutions, and prepared for investment.
One cohort standout in the cleantech space is EM Energy, which is developing technology to turn biomass and coal waste into hydrogen gas, a process that doesn’t require heat, electricity, or bacteria. The team, led by technology inventor Isabel Toasa and entrepreneur Chris Wilson, has already secured a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), grant funding, and government support. They are set to scale their technology for industrial heating and sustainable fuel applications, without generating any greenhouse gases. EM Energy is positioning itself to disrupt traditional fossil fuel markets while offering a sustainable alternative for industrial users.
Facet Amtech, another cleantech startup, is focused on transforming ammonia production. Using catalyst technology, the company aims to drastically reduce the environmental impact of ammonia, an essential component in industries like agriculture and manufacturing. Led by founder Dr. Peter Richardson, Facet Amtech is preparing to pilot its green ammonia reactor, which has the potential to reshape clean energy production and reduce emissions.
In the biotechnology space, Wild Yeast Zoo is looking to scale its collection of over 500 wild yeasts, which could drive innovation across several industries, including biofuels, food and beverage, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. What began as a citizen science project is now evolving into a business ready to disrupt these sectors. The team, which includes biochemist Dr. Peter Lewis, is seeking pre-seed funding to expand their operations and tap into sustainable production processes using their unique yeast strains.
Join i2N as they showcase the cohort at the I2N Accelerator Demo Night November 6, live at I2N Hub Honeysuckle.
