The Biomimicry Institute has announced ten startups for its 2025 Ray of Hope Accelerator, launching in September. These nature-inspired ventures will receive $15,000 in non-dilutive funding and

The Biomimicry Institute has announced ten startups for its 2025 Ray of Hope Accelerator, launching in September. These nature-inspired ventures will receive $15,000 in non-dilutive funding and over $50,000 in resources and mentorship to fast-track their market entry. The six-month program champions a Nature Positive future, expanding its global reach with participants from three continents, including first-time startups from Colombia and the Netherlands, and diverse leadership.

Founders will present their cutting-edge solutions at a special reception during New York Climate Week on Thursday, September 25, at Brickworks Design Studio. RSVP here: Luma link. The accelerator is supported by the Ray C. Anderson Foundation, Bentley Environmental Foundation, and L’Oréal. Learn more: biomimicry.org/innovation/accelerator.

TEDx events are independently organized. Guidelines for organizers are detailed here. This talk was presented at an

TEDx events are independently organized. Guidelines for organizers are detailed here. This talk was presented at an independently organized TEDx event; learn more at ted.com/tedx.

John Lanier, Executive Director of the Ray C. Anderson Foundation, continues his grandfather Ray C. Anderson's environmental legacy. He advocates for a holistic climate change approach, exemplified by Drawdown Georgia, which tackles emissions and social issues like unemployment and hunger.

Lanier serves on the Southface Institute board and authored “Mid-Course Correction Revisited,” an update to his grandfather’s book. He holds a Juris Doctorate and Bachelor of Arts degrees in history and economics from the University of Virginia.