PreIPO INTELLI™ Weekly Insights | Series 33
Friday, May 19, 2023 | Volume 1 Series 33 | Montana's TikTok Ban, Cleantech Startups to Watch, and Some Trending Consumer Products.
☕ Happy Friday, everyone! We have new updates brought to you by our Team at INTELLI™. We have some top trending products to keep an eye on, exploring the challenges in enforcing Montana's TikTok ban, and the Cleantech startups to watch for this year.
🌿 Cleantech Startups to keep an eye on
In this report, 10 Cleantech startups from around the world are highlighted for their innovative solutions in carbon capture, low-carbon operations, water purification, and sustainable materials.
The ten startups to watch in 2023 are:
Nellie Technologies: This UK-based startup has developed Nellie Cell, an organic bioreactor that effectively captures carbon dioxide from the air. Its modular and scalable design allows for customized applications, and the company offers carbon capture, utilization, and storage as a service.
Holy Technologies: Based in Germany, Holy Technologies specializes in circular carbon fiber components for industries such as energy, automotive, and aerospace. Their lightweight and cost-effective carbon fiber solutions offer greener alternatives to traditional manufacturing materials.
Openversum: A Swiss startup, Openversum provides a proprietary water filtration membrane that efficiently removes contaminants like heavy metals and pathogens. They also offer a micro-franchise model to empower local communities in manufacturing their water purifiers.
Zero Labs: Zero Labs, an Estonian startup, offers digital renewable energy as a service. Their blockchain-based solution provides businesses with proof of green energy sourcing through renewable energy certificates, ensuring carbon-free operations and promoting a zero-carbon economy.
Enreport: A Finnish startup, develops AI-driven digital twins for energy efficiency. Their energy management system uses artificial intelligence and predictive analytics to optimize energy consumption and reduce emissions, resulting in lower operational expenses for commercial and industrial companies.
NETS23D: This South African startup contributes to the circular blue economy by upcycling end-of-life fishing nets into compounds for molding and 3D printing industries. They also utilize these compounds to create modular floating structures for various applications, reducing the negative impacts of discarded fishing nets on aquatic life.
Varme Energy: Varme Energy, based in Canada, focuses on waste-to-energy projects with integrated carbon capture and storage. Their thermal treatment plants generate energy while capturing and permanently storing post-combustion carbon, providing low-carbon heat energy for district heating and industrial processes.
Cool Lion Energies: Cool Lion Energies, located in Ivory Coast, offers solar-powered cooling as a service. Their refrigerators and freezer storage units are assembled locally, providing businesses in agriculture, agri-food, industrial, and eCommerce sectors with reliable and eco-friendly cooling solutions.
TerraStor: This US-based startup, specializes in grid-scale energy storage using advanced compressed air energy storage (ACAES) systems. These highly efficient mechanical batteries allow for the integration of renewable energy sources, reducing the need for conventional peaker plants.
Blue Energy Motors: An Indian startup, focusing on green trucking solutions. They offer a modular platform that supports various green fuels and have developed hybrid and electric trucks, providing logistics companies and businesses with zero-emission transportation options.
These ten cleantech startups represent the ongoing innovation in the industry and their contributions to addressing environmental challenges while creating economic opportunities. For more information on emerging cleantech startups and their impact in 2023, you can download the free CleanTech Innovation Report.
The Feasibility Concerns Surrounding Montana's TikTok Ban 🚫
We are examining Montana's groundbreaking decision as the inaugural state to ban TikTok and delving into the potential hurdles it could encounter when implementing and upholding the ban. Legal and technology experts express skepticism about the feasibility of enforcing such a ban, which has already led to a lawsuit by TikTok users claiming it violates their First Amendment rights. The ban, enacted through Montana's SB419 law, makes it illegal for TikTok and app marketplaces to offer the service within the state, with fines of $10,000 per violation per day. However, even if the law withstands legal challenges, the practicalities of the internet may make it difficult to prevent users from accessing TikTok.
Enforcing the ban poses its own set of challenges. The vagueness of the law could hinder effective implementation and enforcement. Determining noncompliance is unclear, and even if authorities subpoena TikTok or app stores, many users may find ways to circumvent the ban, such as through virtual private networking (VPN) services. VPNs can allow users to appear as if they are connecting to the internet from outside Montana, making the ban easily bypassed. Requesting companies to utilize additional user data for inference purposes could face legal and privacy objections. Implementing statewide network filters via internet providers is another option, but these providers are not explicitly subject to the TikTok ban.
Montana's decision to ban TikTok aligns with concerns expressed by other states regarding potential privacy and security risks associated with the app's links to China through its parent company, ByteDance. However, no public evidence exists to suggest that the Chinese government has accessed TikTok's U.S. user data. While over half of U.S. states have implemented restrictions on TikTok for government devices, Montana's ban represents a significant step forward, and the outcome of the legal challenges could set a precedent for other states considering similar measures.
🧠 ChatGPT Launches Free IOS app
OpenAI has introduced the ChatGPT app for iOS users in the US, expanding its availability to other countries soon, following its initial release online six months ago. The launch coincides with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's congressional testimony on the importance of AI safeguards. The app retains the same functionalities as the web version, enabling voice prompts and cross-device synchronization. ChatGPT Plus subscribers will receive additional benefits and access to GPT-4 capabilities. OpenAI's future plans include launching an Android version, as shared by CTO Mira Murati.
📈 INTELLI™ Featured Trending Consumer Products
Welcome to our diverse range of innovative and trending consumer products! From skincare solutions to unique accessories, we have compiled a selection of 12 exciting items that cater to various needs and interests.
Bakuchiol Serum: This skincare serum is derived from plants and has gained popularity as a natural alternative to retinol. It offers similar benefits, such as reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin texture, and promoting a more youthful complexion. What sets bakuchiol apart is its gentle nature, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin or those who may experience irritation from retinol products.
Migraine Hat: The Migraine Hat is a unique accessory designed to provide relief for those suffering from migraines and headaches. It features built-in cold packs strategically placed inside the hat, which can be cooled in the freezer and then worn to help alleviate pain and reduce discomfort. The hat's design allows for targeted cold therapy, helping to soothe the affected areas and provide a sense of relief during episodes.
ADHD Supplement: This nutritional supplement is specially formulated to support focus and cognitive function for individuals with ADHD. It typically contains a combination of vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts that have been shown to have potential benefits for attention and concentration. The supplement aims to provide essential nutrients that may be lacking in the diet, helping to support overall brain health and optimize cognitive performance.
Bamboo Pajamas: Made from soft and sustainable bamboo fabric, these pajamas offer a luxurious and eco-friendly sleepwear option. Bamboo fabric is known for its breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and silky texture, providing exceptional comfort for a restful night's sleep. Additionally, bamboo is a highly sustainable material, making these pajamas an environmentally conscious choice.
Caffeine Eye Serum: This rejuvenating eye serum is infused with caffeine, a popular ingredient known for its energizing and depuffing effects. When applied to the under-eye area, the serum helps reduce puffiness, dark circles, and signs of fatigue, giving a refreshed and revitalized appearance. The caffeine in the serum can also help improve blood circulation, further aiding in the reduction of under-eye puffiness.
Turmeric Gummies: These gummy supplements offer a convenient and tasty way to incorporate the benefits of turmeric into your daily routine. Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties. By consuming turmeric gummies, you can potentially support joint health, reduce inflammation, and promote overall well-being. The gummies are often made with natural ingredients and come in various flavors to enhance the enjoyable experience.
Rice Water Shampoo: Enriched with rice water, this shampoo has gained attention for its potential benefits in hair care. Rice water is believed to contain vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that nourish and strengthen hair strands. Regular use of rice water shampoo can help improve hair elasticity, reduce breakage, and promote healthier-looking hair. Additionally, the shampoo may leave the hair feeling soft, smooth, and more manageable.
Lion's Mane Tea: Lion's Mane tea is brewed from the lion's mane mushroom, which is believed to offer various health benefits. This tea has been associated with improved cognitive function, memory enhancement, and mood regulation. It contains bioactive compounds that may stimulate the production of nerve growth factors, supporting brain health. Lion's Mane tea is often enjoyed for its earthy and slightly sweet flavor, making it a delightful addition to a daily wellness routine.
Ashwagandha Water: This bottled water is infused with ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb known for its stress-reducing properties. Ashwagandha has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to support overall well-being and promote a sense of calm. By incorporating ashwagandha into water, this product offers a convenient and refreshing way to enjoy the potential benefits of this herb, helping to combat the effects of stress and promote relaxation.
Key Fob Cover: The key fob cover is a protective accessory designed to safeguard key fobs from damage and scratches. It is specifically designed to fit securely around the key fob, providing a layer of protection without interfering with its functionality. The cover helps prevent wear and tear caused by daily use, prolonging the lifespan of the key fob and maintaining its aesthetic appeal.
Barrier Cream: Barrier cream is a skincare product used to create a protective barrier on the skin. It is often used in skincare routines or for wound care purposes. The cream forms a thin layer over the skin, helping to shield it from environmental irritants, moisture loss, and friction. Barrier creams can be particularly beneficial for individuals with sensitive or dry skin, as they help maintain skin hydration and prevent further damage.
Under Eye Patches: Under eye patches are skincare products applied underneath the eyes to target common concerns such as puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines. These patches are infused with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, collagen, and botanical extracts, which provide hydration and nourishment to the delicate under-eye area. By using under eye patches, you can temporarily reduce the appearance of tiredness and rejuvenate the skin around the eyes, leaving it looking refreshed and revitalized.
As always, stay tuned for more updates and insights from the team at INTELLI™.