Summary:
Two New Hampshire startups selected for the BlueSwell program focused on ocean health.
HydroPhos Solutions aims to remove phosphorus from wastewater and convert it into fertilizer.
The program provides $25,000 in funding and connects startups with mentors and peers.
Coastal Measures focuses on organizing environmental data for better marine health.
HydroPhos plans to expand their focus beyond lakes and rivers with new connections.
Two New Hampshire Startups Chosen for Ocean-Focused Program
Two New Hampshire startups have been selected to join a transformative program aimed at enhancing ocean health. This initiative, known as BlueSwell, is founded by SeaAhead, Inc. and the New England Aquarium, designed to support emerging companies in the marine sector. The selected startups will be part of the program's fifth cohort.
HydroPhos Solutions
One of the standout participants is HydroPhos Solutions, founded by recent graduates of the University of New Hampshire. The inspiration for this innovative company came during an ecology class, where the students discovered the impact of phosphorus on toxic algae blooms, which threaten aquatic ecosystems.
Daisy Burns, co-founder of HydroPhos, explained, "We found out that phosphorus specifically — there's a global shortage of it. We as people can't function without it and plants can't grow without it. So we thought, hey, there’s a real need here."
HydroPhos is developing technology to remove phosphorus from wastewater, which in turn limits nutrient pollution in water bodies. The extracted phosphorus will then be repurposed into fertilizer, effectively closing the nutrient loop. Burns elaborated, "We're basically closing the loop on taking phosphorus from a place where it's very harmful and bringing it to where we do need it, to feed our population."
Coastal Measures
The second startup, Coastal Measures, focuses on organizing environmental data. Both companies will benefit from the accelerator program, which not only provides $25,000 in funding but also connects them with industry leaders, mentors, and peers who share a commitment to aquatic and marine health.
Burns expressed her enthusiasm for the opportunity, saying, "I’m excited to learn from other startups, make new connections, and expand our focus from just lakes and rivers." HydroPhos plans to utilize the funding for testing their filtration technology and fertilizer as they move forward with their pilot projects.
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