UpLink Annual Impact Report 2025

1-10 62% 31% 8%10-50 50-250Seed Series A Series B or other46% 39% 15%Urban transformation In 2023, UpLink, in collaboration with the Forum’s Centre for Urban Transformation, joined with Deloitte, Salesforce, San Francisco Chamber of Commerce and Citi to pilot a place-based Innovation Ecosystem4 through the Yes San Francisco Urban Sustainability Challenge. In total, 14 Top Innovators were selected to provide solutions for reimagining and transforming the city, focusing on infrastructure and urban green and blue spaces. Most of the Top Innovators are in the early stages of development, with half currently in the pilot phase, employing up to 10 staff members. Since 2023, they have collectively raised more than $60 million in funding and investment. Figure 11 Number of employees Figure 12 Stage of development Although still in its early stages, Top Innovator Zauben has made a significant impact. In 2023- 24, the company sustainably harvested 11,820 tonnes of natural products – equivalent to the annual sugarcane yield from about 150 hectares (ha) – demonstrating their commitment to environmentally friendly production. Building on this momentum, another Top Innovator Butlr aims to save 18,000 megawatt hours (MWh) in energy in the coming year by optimizing office space use and enabling space-sharing among teams. Urban Transformation innovators are also enhancing livelihoods and essential services for communities in need. Zauben and Flower Turbines created employment opportunities for 31 people, promoting economic empowerment and skill development. Meanwhile, Washbox Global improved access to WASH solutions for 1,141 individuals in minority groups in 2024, while Zauben provided clean energy access for 1,000 individuals, addressing critical health and hygiene needs. The second Urban Innovation Challenge in 2025 will focus on renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable transport, resource management, sustainable construction and AI applications for sustainability, aligning with San Francisco’s Climate Action Plan and Roadmap to a Sustainable Future. Uplink Annual Impact Report March 2025 19