DBP’s Make It in Brooklyn Open Office program recently concluded its 2024 series. Open Office is a week-long program where local companies open their offices to local college students as a way to connect student talent in Downtown Brooklyn with the tech and innovation community. This year’s program successfully connected students from LIU Brooklyn, NYU, Brooklyn Law School, and St. Francis College with innovative local startups, offering a firsthand look at Brooklyn’s thriving tech ecosystem. 

The participating companies that students spent time at throughout the week represent diverse sectors of Brooklyn’s innovation economy:  

Vycarb: Pioneering Water-Based Carbon Removal 

Our week began at Vycarb, a startup at the forefront of decentralized carbon removal technology. CEO Garrett Boudinot showcased their groundbreaking work in CO₂ extraction from water, demonstrating why the Brooklyn Navy Yard’s waterfront location is crucial to their operations. Students engaged with Vycarb’s interdisciplinary team of software developers, environmental engineers, and climate scientists, gaining insights into the intersection of technology and sustainability. 

Blue Ridge Labs: Incubating Tech Solutions for Social Good 

Students explored Blue Ridge Labs; Robin Hood’s innovation lab focused on tech-driven solutions for low-income New Yorkers. The visit illuminated the inner workings of a social impact incubator, highlighting programs like Fellowship and Catalyst. Students learned how Blue Ridge Labs nurtures early-stage social entrepreneurs, providing critical support in areas such as affordable housing, workforce development, and healthcare access. 

Ninedot Energy: Revolutionizing Urban Energy Systems

Ninedot Energy opened its doors to showcase its innovative approach to creating cleaner, more equitable urban energy grids. From community solar projects to smart grid technologies and energy storage solutions, Ninedot demonstrated the breadth of opportunities in the renewable energy sector. Founder David Arfin shared his journey and insights as did various team members, which sparked engaging discussions on the future of urban energy infrastructure and potential career paths for students. 

Makelab: Bringing Ideas to Life Through 3D Printing 

The week concluded at Makelab, where cofounders Christina Perla and Manny Mota unveiled the potential of on-demand 3D printing services. Students witnessed the diverse applications of this technology, from prototyping for major brands to creating bespoke items for individual clients. Makelab’s expansion to San Francisco underscored the growing demand for accessible, high-quality 3D printing services.  

This year’s Open Office program has once again proven instrumental in bridging the gap between local academic talent and Brooklyn’s innovative startups. By providing students with direct access to entrepreneurs and cutting-edge technologies, we’re nurturing the next generation of innovators and strengthening Brooklyn’s position as a hub for technological advancement and social impact. 

Read more about the companies that took part in this edition of the Make It in Brooklyn Open Office Week: 
VYCARB
BLUE RIDGE LABS
MAKELAB
NINEDOT

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