In a momentous victory that underscores the global impact of East Tennessee’s tech entrepreneurial ecosystem, Perseus Materials, has emerged as one of the three total winners at the prestigious JEC World 2025 in Paris. Winning in the highly competitive category of “Process, Manufacturing, & Equipment,” Perseus Materials has not only brought international recognition to itself but has also highlighted the innovative spirit and collaborative efforts of the East Tennessee region.

A Win for Innovation and Global Collaboration

JEC World, the largest international composites industry event, is a platform where cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions are showcased to a global audience. Perseus Materials’ victory in the Startup Booster Competition is a testament to the company’s revolutionary approach to materials science and manufacturing. Their win in the “Process, Manufacturing, & Equipment” category highlights their ability to push the boundaries of traditional manufacturing processes, offering solutions that are both innovative and sustainable.

This achievement is not just a win for Perseus Materials but also a celebration of the collaborative efforts of the East Tennessee tech ecosystem. The Spark Innovation Center, a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation, has played a pivotal role in nurturing Perseus Materials and other startups, providing them with the resources, mentorship, and network needed to thrive on a global stage.

Dan Lee: A Visionary Leader

At the helm of Perseus Materials is Dan Lee, the founder and CEO, whose vision and leadership have been instrumental in the company’s success. Dan’s journey is a shining example of how regional initiatives can propel entrepreneurs to international acclaim. As a participant in the Innovation Crossroads program, a flagship initiative of the Oak Ridge National Lab (ORNL), Dan leveraged the program’s resources and expertise to refine Perseus Materials’ innovative solutions.

The collaboration between the Spark Innovation Center and ORNL’s Innovation Crossroads program has been a cornerstone of Perseus Materials’ growth. This partnership exemplifies the power of shared resources, knowledge exchange, and a mutual commitment to fostering innovation.

East Tennessee’s Rising Star on the Global Stage

Perseus Materials’ victory at JEC World is a milestone that showcases the global reach of East Tennessee’s tech entrepreneurial ecosystem. The region, often celebrated for its natural beauty, is now gaining recognition as a hub for technological innovation and entrepreneurship. The success of Perseus Materials is a testament to the region’s ability to cultivate world-class talent and groundbreaking ideas.

This win also highlights the importance of initiatives like the Spark Innovation Center and ORNL’s Innovation Crossroads, which provide startups with the tools and support needed to compete on an international scale. By fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, these programs are helping to put East Tennessee on the map as a leader in technology and manufacturing.

Looking Ahead

As Perseus Materials celebrates this remarkable achievement, the future looks brighter than ever. This victory at JEC World is not just a recognition of past accomplishments but also a springboard for future innovation. With the continued support of the Spark Innovation Center, ORNL, and the East Tennessee community, Perseus Materials is poised to make even greater strides in the composites industry.

Congratulations to Dan Lee and the entire Perseus Materials team on this well-deserved win. Your success is a source of pride for East Tennessee and an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere. Here’s to many more milestones and a future filled with innovation and global impact!

About Perseus Materials:
Perseus Materials is a cutting-edge company specializing in advanced materials and manufacturing processes. Based at the Spark Innovation Center in East Tennessee, the company is dedicated to developing innovative solutions that address global challenges in manufacturing and sustainability.

About the Spark Innovation Center:
The Spark Innovation Center is a leading hub for entrepreneurship and innovation in East Tennessee. By providing startups with access to resources, mentorship, and a collaborative ecosystem, the Spark Innovation Center is driving economic growth and technological advancement in the region.

About JEC World:
JEC World is the largest international composites industry event, bringing together innovators, industry leaders, and startups from around the globe. The Startup Booster Competition is a highlight of the event, showcasing the most promising innovations in the composites industry.

About Innovation Crossroads:
Innovation Crossroads, a program of the Oak Ridge National Lab, supports entrepreneurs and startups by providing access to world-class research facilities, mentorship, and funding. The program is a key partner in fostering innovation and economic growth in East Tennessee.