In a world where innovation and sustainability go hand-in-hand, hydrogen has emerged as a critical constituent in the race to a greener future. This was beautifully illustrated at the recent Hydrogen Pitch Event co-hosted by NovAzure and Brown Rudnick LLP, where startups, experts and investors gathered to explore the boundless potential of hydrogen.
Collaboration often breeds faster innovation and this event was no exception. NovAzure, renowned for its innovation and venture development in the energy and mobility sectors, joined forces with Brown Rudnick, a global law firm recognised for its expertise in cleantech and renewable energy. Together, they orchestrated an event that promised to shed light on the latest trends and growth areas in the hydrogen market.
Jean-Jacques Jouanna, a Managing Director at NovAzure, delivering a keynote speech at the event
The event kicked off with a thought-provoking keynote speech by Jean-Jacques Jouanna, a Managing Director at NovAzure. His keynote was a testament to his passion for a net-zero future and provided attendees with a roadmap for the industry’s trajectory. Jouanna’s insights set the stage for a day filled with inspiration and vision.
After the keynote, the spotlight turned to the startups—the lifeblood of innovation. Attendees were treated to a showcase of startups operating at the forefront of the hydrogen market. These companies unveiled a spectrum of groundbreaking technologies, propositions and customer use cases, all aimed at propelling green hydrogen to new heights.
Neil Foster, Chair of Technology at Brown Rudnick, with a panel of industry experts and investors, including Jim Totty, Morten Stahl, Michelle Robson, and Matt Buntine
One of the recurring themes at the event was the “chicken and egg challenge” that hydrogen faces. Historically, the struggle to align hydrogen supply and demand has hindered the market’s growth. However, the Hydrogen Pitch Event provided a platform for potential solutions. Attendees left with a heightened sense of optimism, armed with innovative ideas for building new partnerships and value chains, ultimately for turbocharging the hydrogen market.
Another highlight of the event was undoubtedly the insightful Q&A session that followed the startup pitches. Moderated by Neil Foster, Chair of Technology at Brown Rudnick, the panel featured industry experts and investors, including Jim Totty of Viridis, Morten Stahl of NH Ventures, Michelle Robson of AP Ventures, and Matt Buntine of Lendlease. Their probing questions and valuable insights added depth and perspective to the afternoon’s discussions.
Matt Bird and Toby Gill pitching at the event
In the spirit of celebrating innovation, the event recognised two outstanding participants. Matt Bird of Supercritical Solutions was awarded “Best Presentation” for his exceptional pitch, whilst Toby Gill of IPG Energy was recognised as the “Most Fundable Company” by the panel of industry experts. These acknowledgments highlight the wealth of talent and potential within the hydrogen sector.
The event also provided a valuable platform for networking and collaboration. The joint NovAzure and Brown Rudnick’s pitch events have become synonymous with connecting emerging companies in sectors like hydrogen, other renewable energies, cleantech and mobility with a diverse array of investors and corporates.
The event served as a powerful reminder that the hydrogen revolution is in full swing. Investments in the green hydrogen economy are on the rise, and innovation is the driving force behind a more sustainable future.
The NovAzure and Brown Rudnick Hydrogen Pitch Event was a resounding success. It united key players in the hydrogen ecosystem, fostering collaboration and innovation. As hydrogen continues to gain momentum as a clean energy solution, events like these play a vital role in exploring new ideas, building partnerships, and advancing the hydrogen economy.
NovAzure’s pivotal role as pioneers of collaboration for innovation reaffirms the importance of such gatherings in propelling sustainable energy solutions to the forefront of our global agenda.
Congratulations to our friends at Brown Rudnick LLP, the startups that pitched and the esteemed panel of investors for an event that left us excited about the limitless possibilities of hydrogen
Startups Shine Bright!
