Water Innovation Accelerator Showcases Promising Data Startups

Imagine H2O's 7th annual program highlights growth opportunities for water data businesses

Imagine H2O (IH2O), the water innovation accelerator, announced the winners of its 2016 Water Data Challenge. Ten promising data-driven water businesses were selected from a global field of 90 startups in 20 countries to participate in IH2O's 7th annual innovation program. Winning teams will participate in IH2O's rigorous business accelerator, benefitting from cash awards, mentorship, industry exposure, as well as introductions to customers and investors.

"Data is a fundamental tool to improve how we monitor and manage water," said Andy Wheeler of GV (formerly Google Ventures) who served on the judging panel. "Imagine H2O's Data Challenge attracted some of the most promising data solutions to tackle pressing water challenges globally."

The Challenge's winner was Ceres Imaging (Oakland, CA), a breakthrough aerial imaging solution for agriculture. Offering a proprietary imaging technology and analytics platform currently unmatched in the industry, Ceres provides farmers affordable access to actionable data to manage water stress and fertilizer application.

Ayyeka (Jerusalem, Israel), a modular remote monitoring solution for water infrastructure, and Apana (Spokane, WA), a commercial water use management and detection platform, were both recognized as runners-up. IH2O's 2016 cohort offered a full range of innovative data solutions to critical water issues and all ten were showcased at the organization's annual Water Gala on March 16 in San Francisco.

"Once again, Imagine H2O attracted a broad and diverse field of really interesting startups and the finalists all stand to benefit from the organization's expertise, resources and network," said Steve Kloos, Partner at True North Venture Partners and a member of IH2O's advisory board. "I am honored to play a role in this important initiative to advance water innovation."

IH2O's judging panel, which includes leading industry experts from venture capital firms, water utilities and engineering businesses, assessed companies for their market viability, value proposition, and go-to-market strategy. During 2016, IH2O will provide accelerator participants with capacity building and strategic advice and connections to the organization's global network of investors and customers committed to deploying water technology.

Image: IH2O 2016 Data Challenge Winner – Ashwin Madgavkar, Founder, Ceres Imaging