Six innovative startups gathered at Stoup Brewing in Seattle for a pitch contest during PNW Climate Week, focusing on climate and deep-tech solutions. These early-stage companies are dedicated to addressing sustainability issues such as solar panel recycling, residential heat pump deployment, and AI-assisted ocean floor surveys.
The panel of judges and attendees unanimously selected Aquagga as the winner of the competition, awarding the startup $1,500 in prize money. Aquagga specializes in developing portable units to eliminate PFAS chemicals, commonly found in various consumer products and contaminating water sources nationwide.
CEO Dhileep Sivam eloquently presented Aquagga’s technology, emphasizing its ability to address customer needs effectively. Aquagga’s solution not only removes PFAS from wastewater but also offers a cost-efficient alternative to traditional disposal methods.
Aquagga, established in 2019, is now expanding its operations to undertake larger cleanup projects. The company recently secured contracts with industry giants like 3M and signed a significant deal in Colorado to handle firefighting foam containing PFAS over the next three years.
The distinguished panel of judges at the contest included industry experts such as Rodrigo Prudencio from Propeller VC, Gabriel Scheer from Elemental Impact, Dana Robinson from E8, and Alex Young from Energy Impact Partners.
PNW Climate Week, a 10-day conference focusing on the clean energy transition, is hosting events across various cities in the Pacific Northwest, promoting sustainable practices and innovative solutions. The competition served as a platform for startups like Aquagga to showcase their contributions to a greener future.
