Seedia
About the Company
SEEDiA, based in Kraków, Poland, specializes in integrating renewable energy into smart city technologies. Its product line includes solar benches with built-in charging capabilities, WiFi access, and smart trash cans, along with solutions like solar bus shelters and info kiosks. These innovations are part of a broader smart city system that enables real-time communication between city authorities and residents. SEEDiA’s management panel monitors device performance and facilitates content sharing, further enhancing the usability and efficiency of its products.
Founded by two engineers, SEEDiA has grown to employ 21 staff members and generates $50,000 monthly in revenue. Its mission is to improve urban life by combining sustainability with cutting-edge technology.
Idea Behind Company
The inspiration for SEEDiA arose during a casual outing when Piotr and his friends found their phones out of battery while sitting on a park bench. This sparked the idea of creating solar-powered benches capable of charging devices. Piotr, leveraging his engineering background, envisioned a solution that would be energy-independent, harnessing solar power through photovoltaic panels.
The focus was not just on providing functionality but addressing core urban challenges. SEEDiA products are designed to meet residents’ needs while reducing carbon emissions. By blending innovation with eco-conscious design, the company aims to create smarter, greener public spaces.
Creating the Company
The development process began with conceptualizing the products based on customer needs and urban challenges. SEEDiA engineers created designs using 3D CAD software and developed proprietary hardware and software solutions. The solar benches, for instance, include a distribution module that manages energy flow and prioritizes functionalities based on battery levels.
The manufacturing phase is conducted in Poland, ensuring high-quality materials and streamlined logistics. Initially reliant on foreign components, SEEDiA now uses in-house technologies to build its products, enabling better control over quality and innovation.
Launching the Business
SEEDiA’s first solar bench prototype was developed in late 2015, followed by a pilot implementation in partnership with Innogy in 2016. The company gained early recognition as the Ecological Company of the Year and secured European funding to support its growth. This financial backing facilitated international expansion and research initiatives.
By 2018, SEEDiA introduced a fully integrated Smart City platform and showcased its innovations globally, including at Smart City Expo in Barcelona. The platform enabled users to locate charging stations, access WiFi, and monitor air quality. The company’s products were also used in city games, enhancing public engagement.
Earnings
Despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, SEEDiA achieved a 112% increase in sales in 2020. Its diverse product offerings, from solar dispensers to smart trash cans, have been widely adopted across Poland and beyond. Key projects, such as the Pocket Park in Kraków, have further solidified its reputation.
SEEDiA continues to expand its portfolio, introducing new products like enhanced solar benches and advanced cloud platforms for smart city management. With growing demand for sustainable urban solutions, the company envisions its technologies becoming integral to cities worldwide.
