Grant focus: The concrete industry accounts for 8% of global CO₂ emissions, with 93% of cement consumption is in developing countries. While low-carbon alternatives exist, they are often too costly for wide adoption. Through 450 interviews and 10 site visits, the team advanced an affordable, scalable solution tailored to local needs. SPIRE funding supported research and development, including testing landfill ash as a cement substitute, along with early prototypes and field studies, laying the foundation for a practical, low-cost path to sustainable concrete. The team is now operating a pilot facility producing 0.5 tons of low-carbon cement per day. They have partnered with leading industry players, including Holcim, Heidelberg, CRH, and Turner Construction. Additionally, they are actively working with 15 coal ash landfill sites to source materials and scale their solution. Grant amount: $6,000

Grant focus: BuildQ began with the goal of helping property owners identify incentives for energy-efficient upgrades, launching its first website with SSIF support. Since then, it has evolved into a full-scale enterprise AI platform for the energy sector, raising venture capital and securing millions in contracts within five months of its initial pilots. Grant amount: $7,500

Grant focus: Kit Switch transforms existing buildings into homes by redesigning interior spaces, aiming to close the housing gap through adaptive reuse. The company offers stylish, easy-to-install, ready-made interior products that significantly reduce the time and cost of residential conversions. SPIRE launched the SSIF program with its Kit Switch grant. The team used the funding to develop both hardware and software prototypes. Grant amount: $5,000