Kerala Startup Secures ₹75 Lakh Grant for Groundbreaking Eco Innovation

Kerala Startup Neiox Secures Rs 75 Lakh Grant for Eco-Friendly Innovation

Neiox Eco Cycle, a Kochi-based climate tech startup, has been awarded a Rs 75 lakh prototyping grant from Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) under the USHUS Maritime Innovation Scheme. The funding, announced on October 24, 2025, will support the development of a groundbreaking carbon-negative marine hull coating designed to combat corrosion and biofouling. This sustainable innovation, derived from captured air pollutants, aims to enhance ship fuel efficiency and protect marine ecosystems, positioning Kerala as a leader in global climate tech innovation.

The grant was formally presented during a ceremony at IIM-Kozhikode, where Neiox Eco Cycle’s CEO, Akhil Raj Pottekkat, signed the agreement with CSL representatives. The startup, supported by Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM), TBI NIT Calicut, and LIVE IIM Kozhikode, is pioneering solutions in climate action, public health, and sustainable industrial transformation. This collaboration highlights Kerala’s growing influence in fostering eco-friendly technologies with global impact.

Revolutionary Marine Hull Coating Technology

Neiox Eco Cycle’s innovative marine hull coating is a global first, offering a sustainable, non-toxic, and carbon-negative solution to protect ships from corrosion and biofouling. Unlike traditional coatings, which often harm marine ecosystems, this breakthrough technology is derived from captured air pollutants—substances that contribute to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. By transforming environmental liabilities into economic assets, Neiox is redefining maritime sustainability. The coating also improves fuel efficiency, reducing CO2 emissions and minimizing the ecological footprint of maritime operations.

Impact on Maritime and Environmental Sustainability

The maritime industry is a significant contributor to global emissions, with ship fuel consumption accounting for a substantial portion of CO2 output. Neiox’s coating addresses this challenge by reducing drag on ship hulls, thereby enhancing fuel efficiency and lowering emissions. Additionally, its anti-biofouling properties prevent marine organisms from adhering to vessels, reducing the need for toxic chemicals that harm aquatic ecosystems. This innovation aligns with global efforts to protect marine biodiversity and combat climate change.

The Rs 75 lakh grant from CSL will enable Neiox to accelerate the prototyping and testing of this technology, bringing it closer to commercial application. The collaboration with Cochin Shipyard, a leading player in India’s maritime sector, underscores the potential of Neiox’s solution to transform the industry. Kerala’s leadership in sustainable innovation is gaining recognition, with Neiox’s work serving as a model for how regional startups can address global environmental challenges.

Neiox Eco Cycle’s Vision and Leadership

Founded by Akhil Raj Pottekkat, Neiox Eco Cycle is driven by a mission to convert environmental and health liabilities into economic opportunities. Pottekkat emphasized the startup’s commitment to building cleaner industries and healthier communities. “Our partnership with Cochin Shipyard reflects Kerala’s pioneering role in sustainable maritime innovation,” he said. The startup’s recognition by KSUM and support from prestigious institutions like NIT Calicut and IIM Kozhikode highlight its credibility and potential for impact.

Neiox’s work spans multiple domains, including climate action, public health, and industrial transformation. By focusing on solutions that address both environmental and societal challenges, the startup is positioning itself as a leader in the global deep-tech ecosystem. The grant from CSL will provide critical resources to scale its operations and refine its innovative coating technology, paving the way for broader adoption in the maritime industry.

Kerala’s Growing Startup Ecosystem

Kerala has emerged as a hub for innovative startups, with initiatives like KSUM fostering entrepreneurship and technological advancement. Neiox Eco Cycle’s success is a testament to the state’s supportive ecosystem, which provides startups with access to funding, mentorship, and infrastructure. The involvement of institutions like IIM Kozhikode and NIT Calicut further strengthens Kerala’s position as a breeding ground for cutting-edge solutions in climate tech and sustainability.

The ceremony at IIM-Kozhikode, attended by key figures such as IIM Kozhikode Executive Director Dr. Ashutosh Sarkar and CSL Chief General Manager (Design) KR Anjana, highlighted the collaborative spirit driving Kerala’s innovation landscape. The partnership between Neiox and CSL is a prime example of how public-private collaborations can accelerate the development of sustainable technologies with global relevance.

Broader Implications for the Maritime Industry

The development of Neiox’s carbon-negative marine hull coating could have far-reaching implications for the global maritime industry. By reducing fuel consumption and emissions, the technology addresses critical challenges facing the sector, including compliance with stringent environmental regulations. The coating’s non-toxic composition also aligns with international efforts to protect marine ecosystems from harmful chemicals, making it a viable solution for shipbuilders and operators worldwide.

Cochin Shipyard’s support for Neiox underscores the growing importance of sustainability in the maritime sector. As one of India’s leading shipbuilding companies, CSL’s investment in innovative startups like Neiox signals a shift toward greener practices in an industry traditionally associated with high environmental impact. This collaboration could set a precedent for other maritime hubs to adopt sustainable technologies, driving global change from Kerala’s shores.

Future Prospects and Global Impact

With the Rs 75 lakh grant, Neiox Eco Cycle is well-positioned to advance its research and development efforts, bringing its marine hull coating closer to market readiness. The startup plans to conduct extensive testing to ensure the coating meets industry standards for durability and performance. Successful implementation could lead to partnerships with global shipbuilders and operators, expanding Neiox’s reach beyond India.

The broader impact of Neiox’s technology extends beyond the maritime industry. By repurposing air pollutants into valuable materials, the startup is contributing to the fight against air pollution and its associated health risks. This approach aligns with global sustainability goals, including the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to climate action and responsible production.

Kerala’s role in fostering such innovations highlights the state’s potential to lead in the global climate tech space. As Neiox Eco Cycle continues to develop its groundbreaking technology, it serves as an inspiration for other startups to tackle pressing environmental challenges. The partnership with CSL also demonstrates the power of collaboration in driving meaningful change, offering a blueprint for other regions to follow.

Looking ahead, Neiox aims to scale its operations and explore additional applications for its carbon-negative technology. The startup’s success could pave the way for further investments in Kerala’s startup ecosystem, attracting attention from global investors and industry leaders. Neiox Eco Cycle’s journey is a testament to the transformative potential of climate tech, proving that innovation can drive both environmental and economic progress.