SAN FRANCISCO, CA, Sept. 15, 2015 -- Imagine H2O, an accelerator for water innovation, recently announced that it has launched its Water Data Challenge. The program will identify and engage promising startups that can deliver data and analytics solutions to drive smarter water resource management in industrial, municipal and agricultural markets.
Improved access to actionable data and analytical tools is urgently needed as the world faces increasing pressure on its water systems. The opportunity is ripe for new solutions that enable water users across sectors to monitor and manage water resources more effectively.
"Data is a fundamental challenge in this industry," explained Scott Bryan, president of Imagine H2O, "and there is a major opportunity for entrepreneurs to adapt successful business models and technologies from other sectors to the water industry."
Imagine H2O's business accelerator enables participating startups to successfully introduce innovative solutions into the marketplace. Since 2008, over 60 companies have benefited from the program's introductions to industry mentors and global network of customers and investors. Further, its alumni represent $1 in every $10 of early-stage investment in the water sector.
"Since submitting a draft business plan to Imagine H2O in 2009, the company has continued to reap the benefits of this program's customer and investor networks," said Peter Yolles, founder of WaterSmart Software, the customer engagement solutions company for water utilities, which has raised over $13 million in venture capital and works with over 45 utilities in North America, cumulatively saving over 2 billion gallons of water.
An independent panel of technology experts, venture capitalists and business leaders will select up to 10 finalists to receive cash awards, in-kind professional services and an invitation to participate in the accelerator. Imagine H2O's financial supporters include Wells Fargo (Headline Sponsor), Tetra Tech and the California Water Foundation.
Applications are due by Nov. 16, 2015. More information about the program and the application process is available at www.imagineh2o.org/accelerator.
See also:
"Imagine H2O selects 12 finalists for water technology Accelerator Program"
"New program launched to advance innovative water infrastructure solutions"
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