Innovating in nature conservation and preservation of biodiversity

Innovate4Nature was an annual startup competition organised by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), SPAR, and Impact Hub Vienna, as part of the biodiversity initiative Vielfaltleben, supported by the Austrian Federal Ministry of Sustainability and Tourism (BMNT) and the European Union. The program encouraged individuals and teams to develop innovative business ideas that made a positive contribution to nature conservation and biodiversity in Austria.

In 2020, the competition had a special focus on insects, a critical component of Austria’s biodiversity. The jury, composed of biodiversity experts, investors, and business leaders, selected six finalists from 67 submissions. These teams presented creative solutions to tackle issues such as insect population decline, sustainable agriculture, and biodiversity preservation

Each of the finalists received a €1,500 prize, mentorship, and participation in a specialized startup program hosted by Impact Hub Vienna. They worked on refining their business models with expert coaching, culminating in a final event where one team won an additional €5,000 and a membership at Impact Hub Vienna.

The competition consistently demonstrated the potential of Austrian startups to combine innovation with sustainability, aiming to preserve biodiversity and raise public awareness about the importance of nature conservation.

VENTURES

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The Austrian Butterfly Monitoring Scheme (BMS) is a citizen science initiative aimed at tracking butterfly populations across Austria. It relies on volunteers who regularly monitor specific locations, helping to collect data on species diversity and abundance. This information is crucial for understanding biodiversity trends and supporting conservation efforts. The project is part of a larger European network of butterfly monitoring schemes.

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Landschaftspflegeverein

The Landschaftspflegeverein (Landscape Conservation Association) focuses on preserving and restoring natural landscapes in Austria. They work on various projects related to biodiversity, habitat restoration, and sustainable land management. Their initiatives involve local communities, providing educational programs and practical support for maintaining ecological balance.

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Zwetschkenreich

Zwetschkenreich highlights a nature tour in the Attersee-Traunsee region, focusing on the "Echte Zwetschke" plum. Participants learn about the fruit's ecological and historical importance while enjoying tastings. The event is designed for groups and promotes sustainable fruit cultivation practices.

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Almgrün is a community-supported agriculture initiative in Austria that focuses on organic vegetable production. Members can sign up for harvest shares, receiving fresh, seasonal produce throughout the growing season. The initiative promotes sustainable farming practices, fosters direct connections between farmers and consumers, and encourages community involvement through volunteering opportunities. Almgrün also organizes events like plant markets to engage the public and support biodiversity.

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Artenhof is a biodiversity-focused farm in Upper Austria, offering experiences like "Artenhof Safaris" to educate visitors about the importance of species diversity. They promote sustainable agriculture through initiatives like edible gardens and climate adaptation practices. The farm also provides courses on scythe mowing, which supports insect conservation.

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BirdShades offers innovative bird-friendly window solutions designed to prevent bird collisions. Their products are made from sustainable materials and feature unique patterns that are visible to birds while maintaining aesthetic appeal for homeowners. BirdShades aims to promote awareness about bird safety and contribute to wildlife conservation.

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The Wieseninitiative focuses on promoting biodiversity through the preservation and revitalization of traditional fruit orchards (Streuobstwiesen) in Burgenland, Austria. They organize events, workshops, and community initiatives, such as the annual Apfelkulinarium, to educate the public about the importance of these ecosystems. The initiative also supports local farmers and encourages sustainable practices.

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Senserei is the world's first specialty shop for "slow mowing," promoting sustainable gardening practices. They offer a range of high-quality scythes and accessories, along with outdoor courses to teach proper scythe techniques. Their mission focuses on environmentally friendly mowing methods that support biodiversity and reduce environmental impact. Senserei also provides sharpening services and equipment rentals, encouraging a culture of mindful gardening in urban areas.

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Alpengummi produces natural, fossil-fuel-free and environmentally friendly chewing gum made of organic resources from the Alps region.

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Markta is a digital farmers market that connects regional producers with regional consumers.

GALLERY