May 9, 2025 – This year’s ISPT Conference took place in Groningen, a region playing a crucial role in the sustainability transition of the Dutch industry. The conference theme focused on how the Netherlands – and particularly Groningen – can strengthen its position in Europe through electrification and the development of sustainable, circular value chains.
During this inspiring event, centered on circularity, collaboration, and technological breakthroughs, TKI Energy and Industry presented the Industry Innovators Award for the third time. This prestigious prize shines a spotlight on pioneering companies making a significant contribution to a more sustainable industrial future.
No fewer than 16 submissions competed for the award, showcasing groundbreaking ideas for energy efficiency, circular production, and smart technologies. After a careful preselection by the expert jury, three finalists were invited to pitch their innovation live at the event:
- ChainCraft; Represented by Maurice Oltheten, ChainCraft transforms organic residues into valuable fatty acids through fermentation, providing a circular alternative to fossil-based chemicals.
- SeaO₂: Represented by Ruben Brands, SeaO₂ develops technology to extract CO₂ directly from seawater via an electrochemical process, helping to combat ocean acidification and reduce emissions.
- Gradyent: Represented by Ann Robin, Gradyent offers a real-time Digital Twin Platform that optimizes district heating networks, increases energy efficiency, and lowers operational costs.
Passionate pitches
The finalists presented their breakthrough technologies with great enthusiasm and conviction to both the audience and the expert jury, consisting of:
- Rob Kreiter (Director TKI Energy & Industry, Jury Chair)
- Kyra Weaver (Investment Manager Energy, NOM)
- Moniek Tromp (Professor of Materials Chemistry, University of Groningen)
- Thomas Stroes (Commercial Director at Saltes, formerly Brabetech)
And the winner is… ChainCraft!
The jury was impressed by ChainCraft’s innovative fermentation technology, which turns waste streams into valuable chemical products such as fatty acids. This technology not only offers a sustainable alternative to fossil feedstocks, but also contributes to a circular economy by converting waste into new resources.
