January 9, 2023 — The Biomimicry Institute has revitalized its Launchpad program to invite some of the most promising scientists, engineers, designers, and entrepreneurs to participate in a newly-designed 10-week program focused on training, making connections, and offering resources for these innovators who otherwise may not have considered commercializing their work in biomimicry. The unique combination of business and biomimicry training, along with in-person expeditions in extraordinary natural locations, has proven to inspire, educate, and build a vibrant community. This new program will offer better support for innovators worldwide working to address systemic climate and social problems by helping them transfer their nature-inspired solutions from the lab and to market.

“We pay close attention to the biomimetic innovation landscape, and we’ve noticed a couple common themes,” said Dave Hutchins, Launchpad Program Manager at the Biomimicry Institute. “First, is that most of the groundbreaking technologies start with a deep understanding of a biological phenomenon where scientists spend years performing research. And second, the most impactful biomimicry startups include diverse teams that encompass a broad range of backgrounds and skills. In this new evolution of the program, we’re excited to focus on these elements and hope to make a strong impact in supporting the next generation of nature-inspired technologies.”

Launchpad participants are inspired innovators who transcend the typical categories and disciplines. They may be transforming chemical and material palettes, designing sustainable systems, or researching novel biological strategies. Many applicants are pursuing a graduate degree, are postdoctoral fellows, or are recent graduates within the biological sciences. Some are studying the application of biological phenomena through engineering. Others are exploring technology and design through the lenses of art or sustainable business practices. These multidisciplinary participants will come together to form the next Biomimicry Launchpad Cohort, with the program starting in May 2023.

To be considered for the program, complete this short questionnaire by February 28, 2023. Learn more about the Launchpad program at biomimicry.org/launchpad, and contact the Institute at [email protected] with any questions.

About the Biomimicry Institute

The Biomimicry Institute is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization founded in 2006 that empowers people to seek nature-inspired solutions for a healthy planet. To advance the solution process, the Institute offers AskNature.org, a free online tool that contains strategies found in nature and examples of ways they are used in design. It also hosts a Youth Design Challenge to support project-based education; a Biomimicry Launchpad startup accelerator program; and the Ray of Hope Prize® for early-stage biomimetic companies to bring solutions to market. In 2021, the Institute launched a new collaborative initiative called Design for Decomposition which will pilot technologies that convert discarded clothes and textiles into biocompatible raw materials. For more information, visit biomimicry.org.