Runar Bäckstrom

interviews

Torrec Technology oy

We were delighted to meet and interview Heikki Sonninen from Torrec Technology Oy and to learn more about the company’s development work and future plans.
Our foundation awarded a grant to Torrec Technology Oy in 2023 for the development of a biochar reactor.
Torrec Technology produces biochar (bio-coal pellets) and condensates using pyrolysis technology, which can be refined into liquid fuels.
This work promotes the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions and supports the transition to a cleaner energy future.
 
Read more:
 
This interview was conducted entirely in Finnish.

Xylo Gas Oy

We are pleased to share our exclusive interview with Fredrik Ek, CEO of Xylo Gas Oy, showcasing their pioneering work in sustainable bioenergy. 
Watch as we experience driving a vehicle powered by clean syngas, highlighting their innovative technology in action.
In 2023, Xylo Gas Oy, a company developing a megawatt-scale wood gasification and biochar plant, received a €15,000 grant from our foundation.
Thank you, Xylo Gas Oy, for your inspiring work in sustainable bioenergy!
We wish you immense success and growth in revolutionizing a greener future with your innovative wood gasification and biochar solutions.
 
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Gentleash Oy

We have had the pleasure of interviewing the wonderful team at Gentleash: Matti Saukko, Markus Saukko, and Jaakko Rantanen!
Gentleash received a grant from the foundation in 2021 for its innovative invention: a pet leash with a patented non-locking brake mechanism.
Their growth has continued rapidly since receiving the grant.It’s worth checking out—there’s something truly ingenious here for pet owners!
Read more:
This interview was conducted entirely in Finnish.
 
 
 

Finncure Oy

We had the privilege of interviewing Pei Zhang and Erik Niemelä from Finncure Oy, a company doing groundbreaking work in medical innovation!
In 2023, the Runar Bäckström Foundation awarded Finncure €15,000 for their project “Development of Platform-Type Particle Solutions Against Respiratory Infections.”
Their impactful work continued to impress, earning them another €15,000 grant in 2025 for “Development of Platform-Type Particle Solutions to Combat Various Diseases.”
 
 

Passive Cooling Skylight Prototype

We had the honor of interviewing Ron Zevenhoven and Gopalakrishna Gangisetty from Åbo Akademi’s Faculty of Science and Engineering.
In 2022, Ron Zevenhoven received a grant for the “Passive Cooling Skylight Prototype.”