Forward-thinking ideas and innovative new products captured the spotlight at this year's Cleantech Open 2011 Global Forum in San Jose, Calif., on Nov. 16.
The Cleantech Open is the world's largest clean tech business competition and development program, providing support and financial resources to emerging entrepreneurs. It has helped alumni contestants raise more than $300 million since its inception in 2006.
This year's National Grand Prize went to Atmosphere Recovery, which makes laser-based gas analyzer systems for efficient manufacturing and advanced energy process control.
"The technologies from this year's entrepreneurs are more promising than ever. We see innovators turning their ideas into compelling business models that can benefit the nation's economy and commitment to environmental stewardship," said Rex Northen, executive director of the Cleantech Open. "Their efforts will help create green-collar jobs and drive the country's leadership in cleantech."
Chevron partners with the Cleantech Open to fuel innovative solutions to our energy future. Through the partnership, Chevron has provided mentors from within the company to help participants write business plans, increase organization capability and scale and commercialize their technology.
"Partnering with the Cleantech Open allows Chevron to identify and foster emerging technologies that improve the way the world produces and uses energy," said Jim Davis, president of Chevron Energy Solutions. "As we mentor and support entrepreneurs, we can also develop new, valuable solutions for our customers."