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At Startupbootcamp, Selection Days are more than just scouting for the next unicorn. They’re about backing founders who are reshaping the systems that power our world.
On Day 2 of Spring 2025, the spotlight was on DeepTech & Robotics — and a powerful theme emerged: Founders aren’t just building tech. They’re rebuilding the physical world.
From circular materials to predictive machines and human-aware systems, this was innovation made tangible — built to scale, and built to last.
Circular Materials, Smarter Cities
One of the biggest shifts? DeepTech is going circular — and urban.
We saw building materials made entirely from recycled plastic – stronger, lighter, and more affordable than conventional bricks. Other founders introduced concrete optimization platforms that use real-time AI and sensor data to reduce cement consumption — one of the top industrial sources of CO₂ emissions — without sacrificing durability or compliance. And we saw passive cooling systems powered by polymer membranes — running entirely without electricity.
These innovations don’t just improve the built environment — they reimagine it with sustainability at the core. They align directly with the global push for climate resilience, resource efficiency, and sustainable cities – advancing the aims of the UN Sustainable Development Goals 9, 11, and 13.
Robotics That Adapt, Predict, and Learn
This year’s robotics solutions weren’t just automated — they were intelligent by design.
From predictive maintenance platforms to modular interfaces that work across hardware types, the focus is clear: Make robotics more accessible, scalable, and resilient. Some go further — using spatial AI to navigate dynamic environments like retail, logistics, and transport, turning raw data into movement and autonomy.
This is infrastructure innovation with intelligence built in. These solutions help decentralize capabilities, improve energy efficiency, and reduce operational waste — all while reinforcing the critical need for resilient industry, inclusive innovation, and smarter infrastructure in line with SDG 9 and SDG 13.
Human-Tech Symbiosis is Here
Not all DeepTech is mechanical — some of it is emotional.
AI-led video avatars are now conducting real-time job interviews, assessing candidate responses, and even negotiating offers. Elsewhere, new digital platforms are giving children a verified, age-safe social space with human moderation, AI filters, and real-time parental tools.
And in education, immersive language learning systems combined neuroscience, virtual reality, and natural language processing to unlock new ways of building memory and fluency — especially in underserved learning environments.
These aren’t just interfaces — they’re instruments of inclusion. They unlock access to learning, opportunity, and well-being — all core to advancing SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
Our Takeaway
If Day 1 was about scaling intelligence through code, Day 2 was about scaling intelligence through systems – physical, emotional, spatial, and environmental.
Materials that regenerate. Robots that adapt. Interfaces that listen. These founders are designing for scale, for sustainability, and for people.
And that’s exactly the kind of innovation we back.
What’s Next
- On April 3, we dive into the future of Food & AgriTech — from regenerative agriculture to biotech-powered nutrition.
- On April 4, 17:00 CET, we will announce 30 startups across AI & Web3, DeepTech & Robotics, and Food & AgriTech that have been selected into the Spring programs.
Want to get involved as an investor, mentor, or partner? Reach out to relations@startupbootcamp.com - we’d love to collaborate.
📍For more information about Bold 2 visit: www.sbcbold2.com
📍For founders interested in pre-applying to our accelerators: www.startupbootcamp.org/startups/accelerators
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