Previous Grow-NY $250,000 winner, Combplex, has been selected as a semifinalist for this year’s 76West Clean Energy Competition. The startup was recognized at the 2019 Grow-NY competition for its innovative smart beehive frame that is capable of detecting and exterminating Varroa mites—responsible for the widespread devastation of bee colonies—without harming bees.
The rising Ithaca-based startup is following its mission of protecting bee populations while enhancing the local agricultural hub of the Grow-NY region, consisting of the Central New York, Finger Lakes, and Southern Tier regions. Now, following last year’s Grow-NY win, Combplex will have the chance to take home up to $1 million in funding at 76West.
In addition to the prize money, 76West also helps clean energy startups get established in the region, gain access to early users for their technologies, and further develop the community of clean tech innovators, industry experts, educators, and investors. Each startup is paired with a regional business leader for mentorship and guidance leading up to the competition.
Supported by New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and Empire State Development and administered by the Southern Tier Startup Alliance, the 76West Clean Energy Competition will be held virtually on August 18-19, 2020. Four winners will be awarded a total of $2.5 million in funding made up of a grand prize of $1 million and three prizes of $500,000. For more information, read the full semifinalist announcement from NYSERDA.