Ethanol Producer Magazine has announced the six startups selected to present their ideas to investors at the upcoming International Fuel Ethanol Workshop & Expo, scheduled for June 9–11, 2025, in Omaha, Nebraska, reports Biomass Magazine.
Described as a platform for spotlighting biofuel innovation, “Pitch Day” will give these companies the chance to connect with angel investors and venture capitalists, with the aim of turning cutting-edge concepts into industry-changing solutions.
“Pitch Day showcases the cutting edge of our industry—from breakthrough technologies to bold new startups redefining what is possible in biofuels,” said John Nelson, COO of Ethanol Producer Magazine. “This platform helps accelerate the future of ethanol through collaboration, investment, and fresh ideas.”
Here are the six selected companies:
Skyven Technologies
Skyven helps manufacturers improve energy efficiency by recovering waste heat and converting it into emissions-free steam using its Arcturus steam-generating heat pump. The company’s Energy-as-a-Service model allows clients to cut costs and carbon without upfront investment.
XTS Energy
XTS is building a facility to produce 30 million gallons of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and Renewable Diesel annually using alcohol-to-jet (ATJ) technology. Using low-carbon ethanol as a feedstock, the project aims to help close the global SAF supply gap and meet aviation’s emissions targets.
Terragia Biofuel, Inc.
Terragia is working on a biotechnology that converts tough, non-food plant materials into ethanol. Their approach combines biological innovation and simplified processing to boost yields and sustainability, making it easier to add cellulosic ethanol capabilities to existing corn-based plants.
Celluol
Celluol has developed a bacterium that breaks down and ferments agricultural waste into ethanol in a single step—similar to brewing beer. This innovation could dramatically reduce costs and complexity in biofuel production. Co-locating at corn ethanol plants, the process may also triple land efficiency by converting CO₂ into more ethanol.
The Pennycress Company
This company promotes pennycress, a cover crop that supports both farming and fuel production. Their engineered seeds help farmers grow additional income between seasons while improving soil health, biodiversity, and carbon capture. The oil-rich seeds can be used in cooking and SAF production.
G2B BioSolutions Aps
Denmark-based G2B turns food waste into bioethanol, high-protein feed, and captured CO₂ using its SustainMax system. The company is preparing to scale up and aims to support a circular bioeconomy with minimal environmental footprint.
“This year’s applicants were incredibly strong,” said Marla DeFoe, senior marketing manager at Ethanol Producer Magazine. “These finalists stood out for their innovation and their potential to shape the future of ethanol.”
Pitch Day is part of the 41st annual International Fuel Ethanol Workshop & Expo, the world’s largest and longest-running ethanol conference, which brings together producers, researchers, and policymakers to shape the industry’s future.
For the full event agenda or to register, visit www.fuelethanolworkshop.com. Investors interested in Pitch Day can contact Marla DeFoe at mdefoe@bbiinternational.com.
