Spain-based, mlean is provider of continuous improvement software for manufacturers. The startup provides a set of web & mobile products to digitalize, improve & manage industrial operations by "connecting workers with industrial processes". The startups core product, “mlean Production System”, supports 3 key industrial pillars: i) stock & transportation, ii) transformation & iii) shop floor management. It offers various modules across standard work (5s i.e. reduced waste & improved maintenance, Visual standard i.e. work instructions, Skills matrix, Standard work audit, Kaizen), shop floor mgmt. (Routines, Gemba walk), advanced audits (Job observation, Master audit), Ok1stPart (i.e. for seamless mass production), TPM, problem solving, action plans & improvement ideas. mlean products are already used by <400 factories...

UK-based, Kelpi is manufacturing seaweed-based coatings for paper & card packaging. The firm’s bio-coating have a uniquely strong water & oxygen barrier, are resistant to grease & acid, & fully compostable/ marine-safe. The derived packaging materials share similar characteristics (but ultimately replace) plastic (packaging). Kelpi will use the funds to i) conduct manufacturing pilots for packaging for a global beverage brand, ii) cold & hot packaging/ treys for a food brand, iii) clients in cosmetics & iv) personal care, v) as well as polybags for fashion (the company is a finalist for the TOM FORD Plastic Innovation Prize, alongside UK-based Notpla). Reducing plastic consumption is obviously important: only 9% of gets recycled, 11% is incinerated...