CEO, PRESIDENT, VERTIMASS
WHY: Runs Irvine upstart that produces vital fuels and chemicals from methanol, ethanol and other renewable alcohols to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Professor, Chemical & Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside. IN
THE NEWS: Company in January completed a Series B funding round for $8M. Backers include a small VC fund, a significant number of high-net-worth individuals and UGI Corp. of Pennsylvania.
NOTABLE: Chairman Bill Shopoff, a well-known OC master developer and real estate investor, wants company to reach $1B valuation in next funding round.
