NUtech Ventures 2020 Startup Company of the Year

The Startup Company of the Year award went to Agricultural Flaming Innovations. The award recognizes a startup company — founded by UNL 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 UNL. 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.