The Ready2Scale Acceleration Program is designed to nurture and support startups that tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges. One such standout participant is PlanetAI Space, a pioneering venture dedicated to quantifying natural capital and redefining environmental sustainability through advanced technology.
PlanetAI Space is a startup that quantifies Natural Capital (assets and liabilities). This system uses Earth observation satellites and proprietary AI algorithms to provide services to governments and private institutions, facilitating the accounting of natural assets and liabilities. Natural assets are resources or ecosystems that provide essential benefits, such as forests, rivers, and biodiversity, generating ecosystem services (air purification, pollination, climate regulation). Natural liabilities reflect the negative impact of human activities on the environment, such as ecosystem degradation and pollution, representing an “environmental debt” that must be managed and mitigated to restore ecological balance and ensure long-term sustainability.
PlanetAI Space was founded by three accomplished individuals:
- Ph.D. María Fernanda González (Scientific Director & Co-founder): An expert in artificial intelligence with a background in theoretical physics and oceanography, she brings a multidisciplinary approach to tackling complex environmental challenges.
- Ph.D. Candidate Ivan Vilar Ramirez (Communication Director & Co-founder): An economist and business strategist with deep expertise in communication and innovation.
- Ph.D. Santiago Vargas Dominguez (Technical Supervisor & Co-founder): An astrophysicist with extensive research experience in Europe and the U.S., and a leading figure at Colombia’s National Astronomical Observatory.
How did you come up with the idea to create a startup?
The idea originated from María Fernanda González, who has been building startups for over a decade. She envisioned an AI system that goes beyond analyzing human behavior and focuses on meaningful applications for the planet, laying the foundation for PlanetAI Space.
What have been the biggest challenges/failures and the biggest wins so far?
The biggest challenge is entering the market, as company executives and government decision-makers are still not prepared to fully understand the technology. Educating the market, including these key stakeholders, is essential, and this represents a significant hurdle.
What sets your startup apart from competitors?
- Diverse Talent Across Disciplines: We collaborate with a wide range of experts in various fields of science and technology, bringing together unique perspectives and skills that enhance our solutions and drive innovation.
- Proprietary Technology: Our team has developed cutting-edge, proprietary technology that leverages advanced artificial intelligence and satellite monitoring, giving us a competitive edge and providing highly accurate, reliable data for our clients.
- Innovative Business Model: We operate with a forward-thinking business model that focuses on accessibility, sustainability, and adaptability, making it easier for governments and private entities to integrate our solutions into their environmental strategies and ensuring that our impact is scalable and sustainable.governments and private entities.
Why would you recommend the Ready2Scale Acceleration Program to other startups?
We greatly appreciate the support from management to kickstart the development of our products. The Ready2Scale Acceleration Program provides invaluable guidance, resources, and networking opportunities, making it an ideal program for startups looking to accelerate their growth. We highly recommend it to other startups for the hands-on support and strategic insights that drive impactful progress.
Where do you see your startup in 1 year? And where in 5 years?
In one year, we aim to have the platform fully developed and ready to scale, establishing a solid foundation for growth. By year five, our vision is to be a global leader in natural capital monitoring and environmental management, helping to reduce global warming and positively impacting the lives of 1 billion people through innovative, sustainable solutions that preserve our planet.
Which books/podcasts/publications and influencers in your field do you follow and recommend to aspiring entrepreneurs?
In my view, the entrepreneurial ecosystem often promotes misguided notions about what it truly means to build something meaningful. Most well-known entrepreneurs prioritize profit over purpose, which is why I choose not to follow any specific figure in the field.
If you’d get a chance to meet with Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos, what would you ask them?
I would ask them why they have invested so many resources in exploring ways to leave our planet and in systems that control people, rather than focusing those resources on protecting and sustaining our world.
If you’re inspired by PlanetAI Space’s mission and want to contribute to the company’s success, send a short introduction about yourself to info@planetai.space. For more information, visit https://www.planetai.space.ce.