WIN Innovator Kuponya Building a Greener Construction Industry

Kuponya Innovations, a sustainability-focused startup, is developing its first green insulation prototype with help from Murphy Brothers Contracting and the Westchester Innovation Network (WIN).

Kuponya Innovations is an early-stage Canadian start-up developing new construction materials from natural, sustainable sources. The company is focused on finding insulation applications for industrial hemp, one of nature’s fastest-growing plants.

“This partnership was a perfect match as we are both focused on introducing more sustainable alternatives to existing building materials in the construction industry, specifically on creating a carbon-negative product to be used in tiny and modular homes,” said Jordan Prentice, Kuponya Innovations Founder.

The Westchester Innovation Network (WIN) is a Business Council of Westchester initiative designed to connect innovative products and services with existing organizations to guide and support their development. WIN paired Kuponya Innovations with Murphy Brothers Contracting, a Mamaroneck-based, family-owned general contracting firm that has been in business for more than 40 years. Both companies are passionate about environmentally friendly building materials and methods.

“We were delighted to give Kuponya a platform to speak to building design professionals in our region about their big, beautiful ideas for developing building materials from natural sustainable sources, while training people on both the manufacturing side and the installation side,” said Michael Murphy, who handles Business Development for Murphy Brothers Contracting.

Through the WIN partnership, Prentice was invited to present her ideas to building professionals at Murphy Brothers Contracting’s monthly continuing education series. Her participation in the event also gave her the opportunity to network with attendees who are interested in eco-friendly alternatives and to gain valuable feedback that aided in her product development.

“The BCW launched WIN to help entrepreneurs like Jordan Prentice refine their business ideas as they develop innovative products. We look forward to seeing Kuponya test its insulation products in real-world settings provided by Murphy Brothers Contracting,” said Dr. Marsha Gordon, the BCW’s President and CEO.

To learn more about becoming an Innovation Partner or joining the WIN program, visit https://thebcw.org/westchester-innovation-network/.