Stage I: CONCEPT

Propose a concept for successful, cost-effective fish exclusion at water diversions and intakes

January 27, 2020 to May 13, 2020

Competitors in the CONCEPT Stage submitted their new concepts for successful and cost-effective fish exclusion at water diversions and intakes or improvements to existing fish exclusion technologies. Submissions included a technical narrative, a 90-second video summary, and a one-page summary slide of their concept. The Prize Administrator screened completed submissions and assigned subject matter expert reviewers to independently score the content of each submission.

Competitors were evaluated based on the technical innovation, technical feasibility, market feasibility, and the proposed research and development plan. On June 30, 2020, DOE announced the 9 winners that were selected by the Prize Administrator, in consultation with WPTO and Reclamation, to move on to the INCUBATION Stage.

Graphic of the Fish Protection contest stages; Concept - propose a concept for successful, cost-effective fish exclusion at water diversions and intakes, Incubation - winners are paired with PNNL for support, Pitch Contest - participants will present their refined innovations to a live audience.

Congratulations to our CONCEPT Stage Winners!

Nine winners were selected based on their innovative ideas and strong submission packages in the first stage of the prize. Each winner received 50 hours of in-kind support from PNNL and the opportunity to advance to the INCUBATION Stage.

View the CONCEPT Winners

Solutions that help shape the future

Are you a thinker, entrepreneur, facility or potential partner? Anyone with an innovative idea can help promote transformation by participating in the American-Made Challenges.

View the CONCEPT submissions on HeroX