SeaH4 Wins ClimateLaunchpad 2025 with Algae Fuel for Marine & Aviation
South Africa-based SeaH4 has made waves globally after winning the ClimateLaunchpad Global Grand Final 2025. The innovative venture claimed the EUR10,000 (US$12,000) prize at the Vienna finale, demonstrating how locally developed solutions can have a significant global impact.
SeaH4's winning innovation is an algae-based replacement for fossil fuels in marine and aviation transport. This eco-friendly fuel can power vessels within carbon-neutral fleets and adapt to any combustion engine. The venture triumphed over competitors from 40 countries and more than 2,700 initial applications.
The ClimateLaunchpad program, which supports clean tech start-ups, has expanded significantly. Since 2014, it has supported over 5,000 teams across 97 countries and helped alumni attract over EUR500 million (US$580 million) in investment. In 2025 alone, it expanded into nine new countries and covered eight key themes, including clean energy, food systems, and urban solutions. By 2030, the program aims to reach 100 countries.
SeaH4's victory at the ClimateLaunchpad Global Grand Final 2025 showcases the potential of innovative, locally developed solutions to tackle global environmental challenges. The algae-based fuel offers a promising path towards decarbonising marine and aviation transport. Meanwhile, the ClimateLaunchpad program continues to grow, supporting clean tech start-ups worldwide and fostering a greener future.
