South African Bio-Tech Group SeaH4 Wins Global Award

SeaH4 wins ClimateLaunchpad Global Grand Final 2025

A South Africa-based start-up SeaH4 has been awarded global recognition with its green fuel process that develops an algae-based replacement for fossil fuels. The Cape Town based tech start-up has won the world’s largest green business idea competition, beating thousands of entries from 40 countries to claim the €10,000 prize at ClimateLaunchpad‘s Vienna finale.

ClimateLaunchpad, powered by Climate KIC and supported by Bank of America and Irish Aid, helps early-stage climate innovators turn ideas into viable businesses. This year’s Global Grand Final marked the return of the first in-person event since 2019, bringing together start-ups, investors and partners in Vienna under the Climate Innovation Festival for a day of collaboration and bold new ideas.

The Winning Concept

From more than 2,700 ideas and 500 participating teams, SeaH4 impressed the jury with its algae-based replacement for fossil fuels, designed to power vessels within carbon-neutral fleets. With a distinct advantage, their product can be adapted for any form of combustion engine, extending its life in a net-zero CO2 world, offering a game-changing approach to sustainable marine and aviation fuel.

Runner-up: Chaja – a Tanzania-based company transforming mobility with affordable electric motorcycles. By reducing costs and boosting riders’ earnings, the company is accelerating the adoption of reliable and sustainable e-mobility solutions.

Third place: OneFly – a Colombian biotechnology company that converts organic waste into insect protein and natural fertiliser using Black Soldier Fly larvae. Their on-site solution is circular, scalable, and aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The top three teams received €10,000, €5,000, and 3,000 respectively, plus tailored support, investor access, and visibility within the global cleantech ecosystem.