Introducing the IRF Start-Up 2025 Finalists

We are pleased to announce the finalists for the IRF Start-Up Label 2025.

The 5th edition of the Start-up Label was launched in May to highlight the IRF’s commitment to innovation and its active engagement with the global start-up community.

Applications closed with submissions from five continents, focusing primarily on road safety, efficiency and sustainability.

Following a competitive selection process, six finalists have been shortlisted, with one outstanding start-up set to be proclaimed the winner of the IRF Start-up Label 2025 during the IRF 2025 Annual Conference.

Abley Limited – SafeCurves
https://abley.com/en-us/

Abley is a New Zealand-based consultancy specialising in transport planning, road safety, geospatial technology and location intelligence. Since 2003, we’ve partnered with governments and organizations across New Zealand, Australia, North America and Asia to deliver pragmatic, people-focused transport solutions. Guided by the Safe System approach, we develop strategies and infrastructure that enhance safety, access, and mobility. Our multidisciplinary expertise helps clients make data-driven decisions, reduce costs, and create more sustainable, efficient, and inclusive transport systems for current and future generations.

Blue Eye Highway
https://www.blue-eye-highway.com/

Blue Eye Highway is an award-winning road safety start-up developing the world’s first passive black ice detection road stud. Our patented system uses cryogel technology to provide a visual warning when roads are icy – no power, sensors, or connectivity required. Designed for retrofit, our device improves safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians while supporting climate resilience and smart infrastructure goals. With trials planned across the UK and Ireland, we are shaping the future of road safety infrastructure.​

DataMobalize
https://datamobilize.net/

DataMobilize is a youth-led start-up based in Yaoundé, Cameroon. It is dedicated to improving road safety through digital innovation. Its flagship Road Safety Observatory – the first in Cameroon, available via a mobile app and website, enables real-time reporting of hazards, reliable data collection, and actionable insights to guide safer mobility policies. By placing young people at the heart of road safety solutions, DataMobilize fosters evidence-based decision-making and contributes directly to the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021–2030.​

EcoPals GmbH
www.ecopals.de/en

We are Ecopals, a clean tech company transforming plastic waste into high-performance additives for road construction.Through our flagship solution, EcoFlakes, we help asphalt producers reduce reliance on virgin materials, cut production costs, and lower carbon emissions. Built on a circular value chain, we partner with recyclers and industry leaders to deliver scalable, locally adaptable solutions. With proven results on public and private roads, we are driving a more sustainable, efficient, and climate-resilient future for infrastructure.

Green Bitumen
https://bitchem.com/

BitChem Cold Mix DBM (Dense Bituminous Macadam) and BC (Bituminous Concrete) are sustainable bituminous layers developed by BitChem, a pioneer in green road technologies. Using its patented tailor-made cold mix, BitChem enables aggregate coating at ambient temperatures, eliminating the need for heating. This cold mix technology supports the construction of base (DBM) and surface (BC) courses in flexible pavements, ideal for low to medium traffic corridors and green road initiatives, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional hot mix applications.​

ErnKate LIMITED
https://www.ernkate.com/

Ernkate Limited, established in 2011 in Zambia, is an innovative ICT company dedicated to enhancing road safety. The organisation develops unique products such as vehicle speed monitoring, road condition alerts, and IoT solutions to reduce road traffic crashes and save lives. Its mission is to achieve zero road traffic incidents through reliable technology and proactive safety services. With a skilled team, Ernkate serves transport agencies, government bodies and the public, committed to making roads safer through innovative solutions.​

By obtaining the IRF Startup Label, companies benefit from IRF’s official endorsement for one year. This will demonstrate credibility and earn sustainable trust with the company’s stakeholders. The endorsement includes benefitting from IRF’s most valuable assets, which include knowledge, expertise, exposure and networking opportunities.