Persuasive cleantech start-ups

Dear reader

Currently, the cleantech sector is not in vogue; for example, the European solar industry remains in a serious crisis. However, challenges such as global climate change and the necessary energy transition still exist. Large-scale enterprises and far-sighted financiers understand this and are investing in projects in the sector.

This week a number of Swiss cleantech start-ups reported successes. TVP Solar was able to complete a financing round of CHF12 million, and at the same time the company was able to gain a former senior manager of Brazilian oil company Petrobras on to its board.

Quantis, a company founded by EPFL researchers, has launched a database to capture the environmental footprint of food products. Its partners include the biggest names in the industry, such as Kraft Foods, Mars and Nestlé. South Pole Carbon’s project for quantifying climatic impact and investment risk also has some well-known partners, among them Credit Suisse.

But not only international companies rely on cleantech: Migros Basel now sells fish and vegetables from the rooftop farm of Urban Farmers, and the city of Winterthur’s climate fund is supporting start-up Anerdgy with CHF150,000 for the development of a building-integrated wind turbine.

Cleantech start-ups that want to grasp an opportunity for international expansion can apply for the Climate-KIC start-up tour to Silicon Valley now.

For business owners from all industries, the CTI Entrepreneurship programme courses start again throughout Switzerland from next week. Take a look at our overview not only of the many courses but also the new locations, including Lucerne.

Finally, a last-minute tip: today is the last day to cast your vote for WA de Vigier Foundation’s Fan Prize. You can choose between the five winners and five nominees at this year’s awards.

Have a relaxing weekend.
Stefan Kyora

Managing Editor, startupticker.ch