Stellenbosch University (SU) is well known for tackling climate challenges in South Africa and beyond. Many ideas from its lecture halls and labs have become SU-owned intellectual property and have led to successful, award-winning spinout companies. 

These companies address urgent local and global issues, such as cutting carbon emissions, improving energy efficiency, and helping communities adapt to global warming. Two key university programs support them: SU LaunchLab and the Innovus Technology Transfer Office (TTO). The TTO helps researchers protect, patent, and license their innovations. SU LaunchLab serves as an incubator, providing mentorship, shared workspaces with lab facilities, and early-stage funding through the University Technology Fund (UTF). 

“Through Innovus TTO and the LaunchLab, SU provides comprehensive support both pre- and post-incorporation to ensure that our companies are derisked, well-funded and geared for success,” said Anita Nel, Chief Director of the Innovation and Commercialisation Division at SU. 

SU powerhouses tackling global challenges 

The Western Cape often faces droughts, dry seasons, and sometimes floods, which hit farmers the hardest. TerraClim (Pty) Ltd, founded by Dr Tara Southey, helps farmers understand how climate affects their land and market potential. Using research and data, their climate toolkit offers data packs, web app insights, suitability modelling, and field services. This helps farmers spot risks early and take timely action. 

Have you thought about saving energy and improving efficiency? GreenX Engineering, founded by Jason Samuels, offers Electrical Performance Certificates to help property owners operate more efficiently, use less grid electricity, and support a more sustainable environment. In 2022, the company installed solar systems at Cloetesville primary and secondary schools, meeting about 30% of the primary school's energy needs and bringing long-term savings. GreenX Engineering also issued an EPC certificate to Boland College, showing the college’s commitment to sustainability. 

While GreenX focuses on energy efficiency, Urobo Biotech, founded by Dr Wessel Myburgh and Dominique Rocher, is tackling bioplastic waste. This type of waste is a tough climate challenge because it often ends up in landfills or is burned. Urobo Biotech uses microbial enzymes to break down certain plastics, especially bioplastics, and may even recycle them into useful fuels and chemicals. 

Did you know that climate action can happen in space too? CubeSpace, a global leader in satellite control systems, is helping to improve life on Earth. Founded by Prof Herman Steyn and his postgraduate students, CubeSpace offers reliable, easy-to-use solutions for satellites of all sizes, along with strong customer support. NASA has endorsed their work, and their modules are now on more than 300 satellites in over 30 countries. Many of these satellites monitor deforestation and carbon emissions. 

SU is home to strong spinout companies that meet the growing need for clean technology. The University Technology Fund (UTF) supports innovations that help achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, especially in climate and energy-saving businesses. 

To learn more about SU spinout companies and their impact, contact InnovusTTO at [email protected] or visit www.innovus.co.za and www.launchlab.co.za.