IRIS: Monitoring the Air We Breathe

Brazil, known for its vibrant culture, diverse ecosystems, and bustling cities, is facing a silent yet pressing threat: air pollution. While the country's natural beauty is renowned worldwide, its air quality issues pose significant risks to public health and environmental sustainability. 

The lack of comprehensive monitoring infrastructure and reliable data presents a significant barrier to effectively addressing air pollution. Without accurate information on pollutant levels and sources, policymakers struggle to develop targeted strategies to reduce emissions and mitigate the health and environmental impacts of air pollution.

One of the primary obstacles is the insufficient coverage of air quality monitoring stations across the country. With only 1.7% of Brazilian municipalities having monitoring systems in place, vast regions remain unmonitored, leaving communities unaware of the air they breathe and policymakers without crucial data to guide decision-making.

Furthermore, existing monitoring efforts often suffer from data gaps and inconsistencies, limiting their usefulness in informing effective policy interventions. Without comprehensive and up-to-date data on pollutant concentrations, emission sources, and atmospheric dynamics, policymakers lack the necessary insights to develop targeted measures to improve air quality.

Compounding the issue is the interconnected nature of air pollution and climate change. Brazil, like many countries, faces the dual challenge of addressing air pollution while grappling with the impacts of climate change. Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and more frequent extreme weather events exacerbate environmental stresses and amplify the health risks associated with air pollution.

Beyond its impact on the environment, the health consequences of air pollution are severe. It is linked to a myriad of health problems, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and premature death. In Brazil, air pollution is responsible for approximately 51,000 deaths annually, far exceeding the 32,121 deaths from traffic accidents in the same year. Studies suggest that from 2018 to 2025, around 128,000 premature deaths and significant economic losses are expected due to air pollution-related illnesses.

Addressing the air pollution crisis in Brazil requires a multifaceted approach, including stricter enforcement of environmental regulations, investments in monitoring infrastructure, and transition to cleaner technologies. Collaboration between government, industry, civil society, and academia is essential to mitigate the health and environmental impacts of air pollution and pave the way for a cleaner, healthier future for all Brazilians.

Our solution is an autonomous low-cost air quality monitoring system designed to accurately measure and track gas concentrations in real-time. It consists of a network of monitoring nodes equipped with electrochemical and optical sensors for gas detection.

Each monitoring node captures gas samples using a gas transport line and directs them to the sensors. The sensors detect gas molecules and generate corresponding electrical signals representing the concentration of each substance. These signals undergo electronic conditioning for amplification, attenuation, and filtering before being digitized by an analog-to-digital converter for processing and transmission.

The sensors communicate with other components of the monitor through standard interfaces and analog channels. Each measurement module has Micro SD card storage and a real-time clock for precise temporal measurement records. Additionally, there's an LCD display interface for user interaction.

To ensure autonomy, each monitoring node has its own internet connectivity and power supply, utilizing batteries for electrical power and supporting connection via WiFi, GPRS, or LoRa. GPS modules are also used for geolocation.

The microcontroller controls the operations flow of the monitoring systems. We utilize open-source electronic development platforms for their versatility, affordability, and extensive online community support. These platforms enable seamless integration of software and hardware, facilitating the implementation of various monitoring and data processing tasks.

Furthermore, our solution places significant emphasis on the calibration process. Calibration is a critical step in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the collected data. After the installation of monitoring stations, meticulous calibration procedures are conducted to fine-tune and validate the sensors, guaranteeing precise and consistent measurements over time.

Regular calibration intervals are essential to maintain the integrity of the monitoring system and to ensure that it continues to deliver accurate results throughout its operational lifespan. Our solution offers calibration services as part of the overall package, providing initial sensor calibration to ensure the accuracy of the collected data. Additionally, maintenance contracts can be offered to ensure ongoing calibration and optimal performance of the monitoring stations.

In summary, our solution provides an efficient, cost-effective, and user-friendly way to monitor air quality in real-time. This makes it particularly well-suited to meet the urgent needs for new methods of pollution measurement in both underdeveloped and ongoing developing countries. As the world faces the challenges of climate change, it's crucial to have reliable tools for monitoring air quality and understanding the impacts of pollution.

>> While our new equipment is currently undergoing field calibration, here are some pictures of the previous version, as shown.

Our solution serves a diverse range of stakeholders, each with unique needs and challenges related to air quality monitoring. 

1. Public Sector: Government environmental agencies, development and environmental departments, health centers, states, and municipalities benefit from access to real-time air quality data. This empowers them to make informed decisions regarding environmental management, policy formulation, public health interventions, and urban planning. 
   
   In Brazil, agencies like IBAMA and ICMBio oversee vast territories. However, only around 2% of Brazil's air quality monitoring stations meet WHO standards. Our solution aims to supplement this infrastructure, potentially increasing monitoring coverage by 20% within the first year of implementation.
   
   With limited budgets, many Brazilian states struggle to meet air quality monitoring needs. Our solution, priced 50% lower than traditional monitoring systems, enables cost-effective expansion of monitoring networks, potentially allowing states to allocate saved funds toward other environmental initiatives.

2. Private Sector: Industries, environmental consulting firms, and businesses across various sectors benefit from detailed emissions data for operational optimization, compliance with environmental regulations, and sustainability initiatives. By offering precise monitoring capabilities, our solution enables industries to reduce their environmental footprint, enhance operational efficiency, and minimize losses. Additionally, environmental consulting firms can leverage our solution to provide specialized air quality monitoring services to clients, fostering environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance.

3. General Population: Individuals and communities gain access to transparent and accessible information about air quality in their region. Currently, many communities lack access to reliable air quality data, limiting their ability to protect themselves from pollution-related health issues. Our solution addresses this by providing real-time data that promotes awareness, encourages informed decision-making, and fosters community engagement in environmental conservation efforts.

4. Research and Education: Research institutions, educational institutions, and environmental organizations benefit from access to comprehensive air quality data for scientific studies, curriculum integration, and public awareness campaigns. Our solution supports academic research, fosters environmental literacy, and stimulates interdisciplinary collaboration. 

5. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Environmental Activist Groups: NGOs and activist groups leverage air quality data to advocate for policies and initiatives aimed at improving air quality and public health. By empowering civil society with actionable information, our solution strengthens grassroots movements and amplifies voices for environmental justice and sustainability.

Our team at IRIS is more than just a group of engineers and designers; we are a passionate collective driven by a shared vision: to create positive change in our communities and beyond. We believe in the power of innovation to transform lives, and our journey is fueled by a deep commitment to making a difference.

As the founder and CEO of IRIS, I am dedicated to environmental advocacy and social impact. My journey has taken me from grassroots environmental projects to leadership roles in NGOs, where I've witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by our communities. This firsthand experience has shaped not only my perspective but also our approach as a team.

Our diverse team brings together expertise in environmental engineering, automation, design, and software development, but more importantly, we share a common purpose: to serve our communities with integrity, empathy, and determination.

Our approach to designing and delivering our low-cost air quality monitoring solution is deeply rooted in collaboration and community engagement. We don't just want to provide a technical solution; we want to co-create it with the communities we serve. That's why we prioritize listening, learning, and co-designing alongside community members every step of the way.

Through outreach efforts, and ongoing dialogue, we ensure that our solution reflects the real needs and aspirations of the people it serves. This community-driven approach not only fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment but also ensures that our solution is relevant, accessible, and impactful.

At IRIS, we believe in the power of technology to drive positive change, but we also know that true progress comes from the hearts and minds of people. Our team is not just building a product; we are building a movement—a movement for cleaner air, healthier communities, and a brighter future for all.

Together, we are turning challenges into opportunities, dreams into reality, and moments into movements. With passion as our fuel and purpose as our compass, there's no limit to what we can achieve—together. Join us on this journey, and let's create a world where every breath is a breath of fresh air.

We have chosen the Pilot stage as the culmination of our eight-year journey at the Federal University of Santa Catarina, where our dedication to environmental research and innovation has made us pioneers in air quality monitoring technology in Brazil.

Currently in its fifth version, our low-cost air quality monitoring solution represents the result of years of study and iterative development. With four real-time monitoring stations operational, we are actively collecting and analyzing data on pollutant levels and air quality metrics in our target communities.

Our comprehensive platform seamlessly integrates data from our monitoring stations with reference data from across Brazil, facilitating robust data comparison and analysis. This platform serves as a vital tool for both our team and our users, empowering informed decision-making and environmental action.

Our commitment to advancing the field of air quality monitoring is evidenced by our academic achievements, including a published article, a PhD thesis, and a final undergraduate project. Furthermore, we are starting a master's program in September, further deepening our expertise in the calibration process.

In addition to our academic accomplishments, our solution has garnered recognition and support from prestigious programs and organizations, including the Innovation Program from Florianópolis 2023, the Catarina's Found Award 2024,the InovAtiva Award 2024, the CATALISA ICT Innovation Project 2024, and the OpenAQ Global Embassadors Program 2024. These accolades validate our innovative approach and underscore our potential for meaningful impact at both the national and global scales.

With the implementation of the new National Air Quality Policy, the mandatory monitoring of pollutant concentrations has become a priority. Low-cost monitoring systems are proposed to expand Brazil's monitoring network. As pioneers in the national development of these systems, we have a unique competitive advantage, positioning us at the forefront of efforts to enhance air quality monitoring and address environmental challenges in Brazil and beyond.

We are applying to Solve because we believe in the power of collaboration to overcome the multifaceted challenges we face in bringing our solution to life. While our team possesses the passion and expertise needed to drive change, we acknowledge that there are specific barriers—financial, technical, legal, cultural, and market-related—that require external support to overcome.

Financially, we are seeking resources to scale our solution and make it accessible to communities across Brazil. While we have made significant strides with limited funding, additional support would allow us to invest in essential resources such as equipment, infrastructure, and talent acquisition. Solve's network of partners and investors can provide the financial backing needed to accelerate our impact and reach.

On the technical front, we are eager to leverage Solve's expertise and connections to access cutting-edge technologies and best practices. From refining our monitoring systems to optimizing data analysis techniques, we believe that collaboration with Solve can help us stay at the forefront of innovation in air quality monitoring.

Furthermore, navigating legal and regulatory frameworks can be complex, especially in the environmental sector. Solve's network can provide valuable insights and guidance on navigating these challenges, ensuring that our solution complies with relevant laws and regulations while maximizing its effectiveness.

Culturally, we recognize the importance of engaging diverse stakeholders and fostering inclusive practices. Solve's emphasis on community-driven solutions aligns perfectly with our values, and we hope to leverage their platform to amplify the voices of the communities we serve and ensure that our solution meets their needs effectively.

In addition to financial, technical, legal, and cultural barriers, accessing markets and forging research partnerships are also vital for scaling our impact. Solve's extensive network of partners spans across sectors and geographies, offering valuable opportunities for collaboration, market insights, and strategic alliances. By connecting with Solve, we aim to forge meaningful partnerships with research institutions, universities, and other organizations to advance our understanding of air quality issues and drive innovation in our approach.

Moreover, being part of Solve provides unparalleled visibility and accessibility for our solution. Solve's global platform offers exposure to a diverse audience of potential partners, investors, and collaborators, increasing our reach and influence in the environmental space. By participating in Solve, we can showcase our work on an international stage, attract support from like-minded individuals and organizations, and ultimately, amplify our impact on a global scale.

In summary, while we are not solely focused on raising funds, we recognize Solve as a catalyst for overcoming the diverse barriers we face. Through collaboration, mentorship, access to resources, and visibility, we believe that Solve can empower us to accelerate our impact and realize our vision of a cleaner, healthier future for all.

Our solution stands out by pioneering a fresh approach to air quality monitoring. Here's how we're breaking ground:

1. Cost Efficiency: Our solution innovates by significantly reducing costs without compromising quality. While traditional air quality monitoring relies on expensive stationary stations in controlled environments, our approach utilizes lower-cost sensors deployed in various locations. These sensors, although less expensive, are trained using advanced AI models to match the accuracy of reference stations. This cost efficiency democratizes access to essential air quality services, aligning with Brazil's push for inclusive environmental policies.

2. Homegrown Technology: We're not just consumers; we're creators. Our solution champions Brazilian innovation and research, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of homegrown talent and technology. This not only boosts national pride but also fuels economic growth and technological advancement.

3. Modularity and Flexibility: With the ability to measure up to 9 pollutants simultaneously, our modular system offers unparalleled flexibility. This adaptability caters to diverse monitoring needs, from urban centers to remote regions, ensuring no area is left behind in the quest for cleaner air.

4. Accessible Data: Our solution provides real-time data for the policymakers, researchers, and communities can make informed decisions and take targeted action to address pollution hotspots effectively.

5. Simplified Operation: Our solution revolutionizes air quality monitoring by eliminating the need for complex maintenance and specialized operators. Unlike traditional systems that require regular calibration and technical expertise, our user-friendly system operates almost autonomously. Its straightforward design and intuitive interface make it incredibly easy to set up and maintain. With minimal manual intervention required, even non-technical users, from local governments to grassroots organizations, can effectively operate and manage the system. This streamlined approach not only reduces operational costs but also enables broader participation in air quality monitoring efforts, empowering communities to take charge of their environmental health.

6. Compliance with Environmental Standards: We're not just innovating; we're setting the standard. Our solution meets environmental regulations, ensuring that air quality monitoring is not just a suggestion but a legal requirement. This proactive approach sets the bar for environmental stewardship nationwide.

7. Real-time Visualization: Knowledge is power, and our real-time web platform empowers users with the knowledge they need to effect change. By visualizing data in real-time, we're sparking conversations, driving awareness, and catalyzing action for cleaner, healthier communities.

8. Catalyzing Policy Change: With the new National Air Quality Policy having pollutant concentration monitoring, our low-cost monitoring systems are poised to revolutionize Brazil's monitoring network. As pioneers in this field, we're not just innovators; we're catalysts for broader positive impacts, shaping the market landscape and propelling Brazil towards a greener, more sustainable future.

In summary, our solution isn't just innovative; it's a game-changer. By combining technology with a commitment to affordability and accessibility, we're not just monitoring air quality; we're transforming the environmental landscape, one breath at a time.

Our solution aims to tackle the problem of air pollution by providing affordable, accessible, and reliable air quality monitoring. 

• Increased Awareness: By deploying our monitoring systems in communities, we raise awareness about the severity of air pollution and its detrimental effects on health and the environment. This heightened awareness prompts individuals, communities, and policymakers to take action to address the issue.
  
  Armed with knowledge about local air quality conditions, individuals can make informed choices to reduce their exposure to pollutants, such as avoiding high-traffic areas during peak pollution hours or advocating for cleaner transportation options. This collective behavioral change contributes to overall improvements in air quality and public health.
  

• Informed Decision-Making: With real-time data at their disposal, stakeholders can make informed decisions regarding pollution control measures, urban planning, and public health interventions. This data-driven approach ensures that actions taken are targeted, effective, and based on empirical evidence.
  
  Consider a city grappling with traffic congestion and vehicle emissions. By deploying our monitoring systems throughout the city, policymakers gain valuable insights into pollution hotspots and peak emission times. This data allows them to design targeted interventions such as implementing low-emission zones or improving public transportation infrastructure. These evidence-based policies have the potential to significantly reduce overall pollution levels and improve air quality city-wide.

• Policy Influence: Our solution is designed to comply with national and international environmental standards, making the data generated by our monitoring systems credible and authoritative. As a result, policymakers are more likely to use this data to inform the development and implementation of air quality regulations and policies.

• Community Empowerment: By involving communities in the monitoring process, our solution empowers them to take ownership of their environmental health. Communities can use the data generated by our systems to advocate for their rights to clean air, demand accountability from polluting industries, and implement localized pollution mitigation strategies.
  
  Picture a local environmental organization using data from our monitoring systems to launch a public awareness campaign on the health impacts of air pollution. Through social media, community workshops, and educational outreach programs, they disseminate information about the sources of pollution, its effects on health, and practical steps individuals can take to protect themselves. This campaign empowers residents to demand action from policymakers, leading to increased political pressure for stronger environmental regulations and enforcement measures.

• Long-term Environmental Impact: Ultimately, our goal is to catalyze a shift towards cleaner, more sustainable practices that lead to long-term improvements in air quality and environmental health. By addressing the root causes of air pollution and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship, we aim to create a legacy of cleaner air for future generations.

tangible metricsOur impact goals revolve around improving air quality, enhancing public health, promoting community engagement, and achieving regulatory compliance. 

1. Reduction of Air Pollution: We aim to decrease the concentration of pollutants in the air by implementing targeted action plans to mitigate emissions. We measure this reduction by comparing pollutant levels before and after the implementation of our project.

2. Monitoring Coverage: Our goal is to expand the coverage of our low-cost monitoring network to effectively monitor air quality across a wider area. We measure progress by assessing the extent of the area covered by our network compared to its initial coverage.

3. Data Quality: Ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the data collected by our monitoring equipment is crucial. We measure progress by comparing our data with that collected by reference stations and by assessing the integration of our data into research and other databases.

4. Community Participation: We seek to engage local communities in utilizing and interpreting the data provided by our web platform. Progress is measured by tracking community involvement in accessing and understanding the air quality data.

5. Impact on Public Health: Our ultimate goal is to correlate the reduction of air pollution with improvements in public health within the local population. We measure progress by analyzing potential correlations between decreased pollutant levels and enhanced health outcomes.

6. Regulatory Compliance: We aim to comply with the guidelines outlined in CONAMA Resolution 491/2018, which provides a regulatory framework for environmental studies and licensing. Progress is measured by ensuring alignment with these regulations and using them as a basis for our environmental studies and operations.

Now, some tangible metrics, in the short term: 

• We track the installation of new monitoring equipment;
• Assess the reliability of our system;
• Evaluate the usability of our data analysis platform;
• Establish partnerships with local entities.

In the medium term: 

• Monitor the adoption rate of our monitoring system;
• Assess its operational efficiency in identifying pollution hotspots;
• Continue to establish partnerships for sustained monitoring efforts. 

In the long term: 

• Focus on the development and implementation of action plans to improve air quality;
• Estimate economic benefits derived from reduced medical expenses and economic losses;
• Disseminate air quality data to the population;
• Observe the public recognition and social impact of our project within the community.

Our solution harnesses a combination of cutting-edge sensor technology, data analytics, and digital platforms to address the pressing issue of air pollution monitoring and management. 

1. Sensor Technology: We utilize sensor technology capable of detecting various air pollutants in real-time. These sensors are designed to be low-cost, compact, and highly accurate, allowing for widespread deployment across urban and industrial areas.

2. Data Analytics: The data collected by our sensor network is processed and analyzed using algorithms and data analytics techniques. This enables us to derive actionable insights from the raw sensor data, such as identifying pollution hotspots, tracking pollutant trends over time, and assessing the effectiveness of pollution mitigation measures.

3. Digital Platforms: Our solution is supported by user-friendly digital platforms, such as web-based interfaces. These platforms provide stakeholders, including local communities, government agencies, and industry partners, with access to real-time air quality data, interactive maps, and educational resources. They also facilitate community engagement and enable data-driven decision-making.

4. Internet of Things (IoT): Our sensor network is interconnected through the Internet of Things (IoT), allowing for seamless data collection, transmission, and management. IoT technology enables remote monitoring and control of the sensor network, ensuring continuous operation and timely response to environmental changes.

5. Cloud Computing: To handle large volumes of data generated by our sensor network, we leverage cloud computing infrastructure. This enables scalable storage, processing, and analysis of data, as well as secure access to information from anywhere in the world.

6. Machine Learning and AI: We employ machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to enhance the capabilities of our solution. These algorithms enable the calibration process, predictive modeling of air quality, anomaly detection, and optimization of pollution mitigation strategies based on historical data and real-time environmental conditions.

By integrating these technologies, our solution provides a comprehensive and scalable approach to air pollution monitoring and management.

2 people full-time: Rafaela Borth and Nicolas Ryberg

3 people part-time: Fernando Campo, Fernando Pruner, Jean Eduardo

1 professor advisor: Prof. Dr. Leonardo Hoinaski

• Prof. Dr. Leonardo Hoinaski - over 8 years
• Fernando Campo - 7 years
• Rafaela Borth - 2 years
• Fernando Pruner - 1 year
• Jean Eduardo - 1 year
• Nicolas Ryberg - 8 months

As a small but growing team, we are committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion from the outset. While our team may be small, our dedication to these values is paramount as we strengthen our team and advance our solution.

1. Values-Driven Recruitment: We prioritize recruiting team members who not only possess the necessary skills and expertise but also align with our values. We seek individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact and are committed to creating a more equitable and sustainable future.

2. Proactive Approach: We actively seek out candidates who demonstrate initiative, creativity, and a proactive mindset. We believe that proactive team members are more likely to champion diversity and inclusion initiatives within our organization and drive positive change.

3. Welcoming Environment: Despite our small size, we strive to cultivate a welcoming and inclusive environment where every team member feels valued, respected, and supported. We encourage open communication, collaboration, and mutual respect among team members.

4. Transparent Communication: Transparency is key to building trust and fostering inclusivity within our team. We communicate openly about our DEI goals, initiatives, and progress, and we invite feedback and suggestions from team members on how we can improve.

Our business model centers around providing innovative environmental monitoring solutions to various stakeholders, including government agencies, businesses, academic institutions, and communities. Here's a breakdown of our business model:

Key Customers and Beneficiaries:

1. Government Agencies: We provide environmental monitoring equipment and data analysis services to government agencies responsible for monitoring air quality and implementing pollution control measures.
2. Businesses: We offer environmental monitoring solutions to businesses, helping them assess their environmental impact and comply with regulations.
3. Academic Institutions: We collaborate with academic institutions by providing them with access to our monitoring equipment and data for research purposes.
4. Communities: We empower communities by giving them access to real-time air quality data through our platform, enabling them to make informed decisions to protect their health and environment.

Products and Services:

1. Environmental Monitoring Equipment: We develop and sell advanced monitoring equipment capable of measuring various pollutants in real-time.
2. Data Analysis Services: We offer data analysis services to interpret the environmental data collected by our equipment and provide insights to our customers.
3. Platform for Data Visualization: We provide a user-friendly platform for accessing and visualizing environmental data, allowing customers to monitor air quality trends and make informed decisions.

How We Provide These Products and Services:

1. Sales and Distribution: We sell our monitoring equipment directly to customers and also establish partnerships with distributors to reach a wider market.
2. Consulting and Training: We offer consulting services to help customers integrate our monitoring solutions into their operations effectively. Additionally, we provide training programs to educate users on how to use our equipment and interpret the data.
3. Subscription Plans: We offer subscription-based plans for access to our data analysis services and platform, providing customers with ongoing support and updates.

Why Customers Want or Need Them:

1. Regulatory Compliance: Government agencies and businesses require reliable environmental monitoring solutions to comply with regulations and standards.
2. Health and Safety: Communities and individuals are increasingly concerned about air quality and its impact on health, making access to real-time environmental data essential for making informed decisions.
3. Research and Education: Academic institutions benefit from our monitoring solutions for conducting research and educating students about environmental issues.
4. Sustainability: Businesses see value in monitoring their environmental footprint to improve sustainability practices and enhance their reputation.

Our plan for achieving financial sustainability involves a combination of revenue streams, including selling products and services, securing service contracts, and raising investment capital. Here's how we plan to fund our work and evidence of our progress so far:

1. Selling Products and Services:

   • Revenue from the sale of environmental monitoring equipment: We generate income by selling our innovative monitoring equipment to government agencies, businesses, academic institutions, and communities. This includes recent sales to the Environmental Agency (IMA) through our laboratory, where we successfully validated our business-to-government (B2G) model. We are also competing for a funding call for the implementation of a low-cost monitoring network by the same agency.
   • Subscription fees for data analysis services: We offer subscription-based plans for accessing our data analysis services and platform, providing customers with ongoing support and updates.

2. Service Contracts to Governments and Businesses:

   • We secure service contracts with government agencies and businesses to provide ongoing environmental monitoring services, including equipment maintenance, data analysis, and technical support. Currently, we are in discussions with three industries across different verticals to validate our business-to-business (B2B) model. Including metallurgy, energy and thermoelectric industries.

3. Raising Investment Capital:

   • We seek investment capital from venture capital firms, impact investors, and strategic partners to fuel our growth and expand our operations. In one year, we successfully secured almost R$350k (70k USD) in funding for R&D.
   • These are some awards and funding: 
     • InovAtiva Award 2024: Recognized as one of the 80 winners out of 850 applicants, in a prestigious acceleration program for Brazilian socio-environmental impact startups. National scale;
     • CATALISA ICT Innovation Project 2024: Awarded the co-founder incentive, totaling $25,000, in acknowledgment of entrepreneurial endeavors. National scale;
     • Catarina Fund 2023: Achieved success in a startup development program, facilitated by the Endowment of the Federal University of Santa Catarina, securing an investment of $7,000 to foster innovative initiatives. Municipal scale;
     • Innovation Incentive Program 2023: Secured a funding grant from the municipality of Florianópolis to drive the development of innovative technologies, with a investment of $36,000. Municipal scale;
     • OpenAQ Ambassador Program 2024: Winner of the global leadership development program dedicated to enhancing air quality worldwide. Distinguishing as one of the ten ambassadors selected on an international scale, totaling $2,000 for yourg leader development. Global scale.
   • By demonstrating the potential impact and scalability of our solution, we attract investment to support our research, development, marketing, and expansion efforts.