Capella Kerst, the visionary founder of geCKo Materials, leads a discussion with investors Cyan Banister, Charles Hudson, Elizabeth Yin, and Mac Conwell. They dive into the fascinating world of biomimicry, specifically a revolutionary material that mimics a gecko's grip, with potential applications in robotics and aerospace. The group also explores the challenges in fundraising for startups, shifting investor expectations, and the exciting future prospects for innovative materials. Tune in for insights into how nature inspires technology and the entrepreneurial journey!
Gecko Materials has pioneered a dry adhesive inspired by gecko feet, demonstrating exceptional strength and versatility for diverse applications.
The company's innovative approach and strong revenue growth highlight its potential to revolutionize industries like robotics and aerospace, aiming for market dominance.
Deep dives
Innovative Dry Adhesive Technology
The podcast highlights Gecko Materials, a company that has developed a revolutionary dry adhesive inspired by gecko feet. This adhesive operates without traditional methods such as tape, glue, or suction and is designed for diverse environments, including vacuum conditions. It showcases remarkable strength, capable of holding significant weights, such as 15 pounds vertically on just one square inch of adhesive. This technology has strong applications in industries like robotics and space exploration, evidenced by its use on the International Space Station.
Commercial Viability and Market Strategy
Gecko Materials reported impressive revenue growth, generating $727,000 in the previous year, with expectations to double that figure in 2023. The company possesses a focused go-to-market strategy, targeting sectors such as automotive and aerospace, with a client list including major companies like Honda, Ford, and GE. With a current funding round of $8 million, the technology is set to expand its applications, potentially transforming it into a household name akin to Velcro. Cost efficiency is also a priority, as the company aims to reduce the price of their product while maintaining high profit margins as production scales.
Strong Research and Development Background
The founder, Capella Kurz, leveraged her PhD from Stanford in mechanical engineering to innovate and patent the mass production technique for the adhesive. The venture emerged from a collaboration between Stanford and Berkeley focused on biomimicry, enhancing the commercial prospects of the technology developed in academia. Gecko Materials has successfully transitioned from grant funding to securing government contracts, showcasing its readiness for market adaptation and commercial success. The podcast underscores the potential for Gecko Materials to become a multi-billion dollar company, highlighting the importance of solid R&D in driving technological advancements into real-world applications.
Biomimicry (noun): the design and production of materials, structures, and systems that are modeled on biological entities and processes.
Founder Capella Kerst invented a material that mimics a geckos' gravity defying grip. This industrial velcro could be a multi-billion dollar industry, and geCKo Materials is shooting for the moon. I mean, they’re already on the International Space Station... how hard can it be?
*Disclaimer: No offer to invest in geCKo Materials PBC is being made to or solicited from the listening audience on today’s show. The information provided on this show is not intended to be investment advice and should not be relied upon as such. The investors on today’s episode are providing their opinions based on their own assessment of the business presented. Those opinions should not be considered professional investment advice.