Chapter 14 - Commercialization journeys: Bringing biomimetic innovation to the market

Abstract

Innovation is an essential driver of economic progress that benefits consumers, businesses, and the economy as a whole. A classic example of innovation is the development of steam engine technology in the 18th century. Steam engines could be put to use in factories, enabling mass production, and they revolutionized transport with the railways. More recently, information technology transformed the way companies produce and sell their goods and services, while opening up new markets and new business models. Biomimetic technology has the potential to radically transform our business and provide a bridge to transition from a high-carbon economy to a sustainable low-carbon economy. Biomimetic innovation, design, and commercialization, when done right, offer startups and small-to-medium enterprises an unparalleled opportunity to make the world a better place while increasing profitability. This chapter includes resources, case studies, and concludes with practical advice for the reader.