NUtech Ventures hosted its Innovator Celebration on Nov. 2. Agricultural Flaming Innovations won the Startup Company of the Year award. The award recognizes a startup company — founded by University of Nebraska–Lincoln faculty, staff or students — that has made significant progress in becoming a sustainable business.
Agricultural Flaming Innovations is founded by George Gogos, professor of mechanical and materials engineering; Stevan Knezevic, professor of agronomy and horticulture; and Chris Bruening, who received his doctorate in mechanical and materials engineering from Nebraska. The team developed equipment that uses heat for certified organic weed control. When mounted to a tractor, it directs propane-fueled flames at weeds, which wilt and die — leaving crops unaffected. See Agricultural Flaming Innovations video.
Knezevic's research focuses on integrated weed management. He has conducted flame weeding studies in seven agronomic crops and published 20 manuscripts based on the data analysis.
Held as part of Nebraska Research Days, the annual NUtech Ventures event included two virtual events: a keynote presentation from leaders at the United States Patent and Trademark Office; and an awards ceremony announcing the 2020 Innovator Awards.
The awards recognize university personnel and companies who are developing and commercializing cutting-edge research.
Bob Wilhelm, vice chancellor of research and economic development, opened the awards ceremony, followed by Chancellor Ronnie Green and Brad Roth, NUtech executive director.
See more information and all NUtech Ventures Innovator Celebration award recipients at Nebraska Today.
