In a breakthrough that could revolutionize the way we think about adhesives, Gecko Materials has developed a dry-adhesive technology that's as strong as it is versatile. Inspired by the remarkable grip of gecko feet, the startup's innovation has already attracted big-name customers like NASA, Ford, and Pacific Gas & Electric.

Founder Capella Kerst has spent years perfecting the technology, which leverages van der Waals forces to create an incredibly strong bond that can hold up to 15 pounds per square inch. The adhesive is reusable, leaves no residue, and can detach quickly and easily, making it ideal for a wide range of applications.

Gecko Materials' demo, which features Kerst dangling a full wine bottle from her pinky finger, has wowed investors and customers alike. The startup raised a $2 million seed round in just 36 hours and has already generated over $700,000 in revenue in 2023. With a clear path to $75 million in annual recurring revenue in five years, Gecko Materials is poised to become a household name.

Kerst's vision goes beyond just sales figures, however. She's passionate about using her technology to make local manufacturing more sustainable and bringing innovation back to the hardware space. With its sights set on the stars – literally, in the case of NASA – Gecko Materials is one startup to watch in the years to come.