Over 70 promising start-ups across varied industries took part in the 2024 Elevator Pitch Competition (EPiC), hosted by Hong Kong Science and Technology Park (HKSTP). The victory was claimed by the German start-up, ToZero, celebrated for its ground-breaking work in battery recycling.
EPiC offers a unique global platform for start-ups to present their innovations and business models within a 60-second elevator ride, vying for funding, support and international exposure. ToZero emerged the winner with its transformative and sustainable solution to battery recycling, captivating the judges and audience alike.
Not only did ToZero’s triumph underscore the critical place of sustainable business models in contemporary enterprises, but it also highlighted the urgent need for solutions to tackle the growing problem of electronic waste}
The victory at EPiC promises to fuel the expansion and impact of ToZero. Recognition on such an esteemed platform will amplify its visibility, attract potential investors and collaborators, contributing to the global sustainability initiative.
The competition drew entries from over 600 organizations worldwide, across 47 economies, signalling the importance of the competition for the global economic and business ecosystem. Notably, it highlights the ever-growing spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation.
As the electric vehicle market surges ahead, so does the issue of waste from discarded rechargeable batteries.
ToZero’s sustainable triumph in battery recycling
ToZero has revolutionized this conundrum with a unique recycling method using hydrometallurgical technology. This innovation not just reduces demand for new materials but also significantly cuts down hazardous waste pollution.
The co-founder and CEO of ToZero, Sarah Fleischer, rationalized that the boom in electrification has catapulted the lithium-ion battery waste, which is largely untreated. But with ToZero’s innovative recycling approach, a sustainable solution to this environmental hazard is foreseeable.
This year, EPiC received 603 submissions from start-ups across 47 different economies. The grand finale showcased 15 teams selected through rigorous regional semi-finals. HKSTP’s CEO, Albert Wong, lauded the international reach of the event, hoping such competitions continue to enhance Hong Kong’s position as a leading hub of innovation and technology.
The concluding pitch, held at Hong Kong’s tallest building, provided the semi-finalists an opportunity to present their proposals to a panel of esteemed investors, business luminaries, and successful entrepreneurs, marking a monumental moment in their entrepreneurial journey.
