Dispatch from the 2023 Algae Biomass Summit

by Carrie Coxin Blogon Posted on

The 2023 Algae Biomass Summit concluded on October 11 in Madison, Wisconsin and the overall feeling of the hundreds of attendees can be summed up in one statement: It’s good to be back!

The first in-person Summit since the pandemic kicked off early with a special Sunday session for investors and startups looking to take advantage of the potentials of algae and seaweed-based technologies. Founders that have raised $100 million sat next to those just finalizing early seed funding to compare stories, discuss how hurdles can be overcome, and how they are positioning themselves for success in today’s VC environment. Investors from angel funds shared what they are looking for, and how founders can expand their networks to fully tap the potential of VC funding opportunities. 

The next day opened the official programing of the Summit. Keynotes, plenaries, technical sessions and poster presentations offered everyone a chance to see the latest progress in algae and seaweed research, as well as the remarkable commercialization opportunities. Topics explored included advanced biomaterials production, food, feed, sustainable aviation fuels and more–the entire spectrum of our industry was explored. 

See below for some of the highlights in pictures:

ABO Executive Director Jon Kallen welcomed the Summit’s opening keynote speaker, Vitor Verdelho, General Manager of the European Algae Biomass Association.
The Algae. Every. Day panel explored the inroads algae and seaweeds are making in every market.
A special pre-Summit session explored fundraising pathways for algae and seaweed startups.
The Summit’s exhibit hall and poster sessions showcased new innovations, products and more.
Three days of plenaries, keynotes, technical sessions covered the entire spectrum of algae solutions and innovation.
The Summit’s Young Innovators Lounge offered attendees a chance to meet with industry leaders .

Farewell to Barb Scheevel

One particularly heartfelt moment came when it was time to wish ABO’s longtime Administrative Coordinator Barb Scheevel a happy retirement. As many in our community know, Barb has been a fixture at ABO since the organization’s founding. She has guided new members, assisted the Board of Directors at every turn, and played a key role in organizing the Summit over the years. Her contributions cannot be overstated and she will be missed. We wish her happy times with her friends and family!

Barb received standing ovation during the Summit’s VIP reception.

Presentations Available to Attendees


For attendees that could not attend every session: Speaker slide decks are being made available to ABO members and attendees only. Attendees can access the presentations in the Whova event app here. We will also be making slide decks available to all ABO members in our member portal here.

It was great to be back in person, and ABO looks forward to planning our 2024 Summit. Keep your eyes open for details!