Sustainabase: A Full-Circle Success Story at 1909
Sustainabase: A True 1909 Success Story
At 1909, we’re all about empowering early-stage entrepreneurs to grow, thrive, and eventually make an impact on our community and beyond. One of the standout examples of this is SustainaBase, a company that has been with us since the beginning and just reached an incredible milestone: they were recently acquired by ISS-Corporate, a global leader in corporate sustainability solutions.
SustainaBase was formed in 2020. Their software tracks company greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and data. As regulatory, competitive, and supply chain pressures to measure and track GHG emissions have increased, SustainaBase meets the growing need for companies to deliver accurate and complete carbon data and reporting to their stakeholders.
Co-founded by Gaida and Matt Zirkelbach, has been with us for years, growing alongside the 1909 community. They were one of the very first companies to go through our Accelerator Program back in 2019, they’ve made their office at 1909 their home base, and over time, they’ve hired other 1909 members to join their team—showcasing the powerful collaborative spirit we’ve worked so hard to foster. They’ve also been consistent sponsors of our annual fundraising gala, giving back in countless ways.
SustainaBase wins $5K at 1909FEST pitch competition in 2019.
One of the most exciting milestones in their journey was winning our very first pitch competition at 1909Fest back in 2019. That win was just the beginning of what would become a flourishing relationship between Sustainabase and 1909. At this event, they were introduced to the leadership team at the 35 Mules Accelerator Program at FPL. They went through that program in 2020 which served as another stepping stone in their rapid growth.
And now? SustainaBase has officially reached an exit, a dream come true for any startup founder. Their efforts paid off in a big way when ISS-Corporate, a leading provider of governance, compensation, and sustainability offerings, acquired Sustainabase to bolster its portfolio of carbon accounting and data management tools. This acquisition marks an incredible chapter in SustainaBase's journey, allowing them to continue scaling their innovative solutions with the backing of a global leader in sustainability.
We couldn’t be happier for Gaida, Matt, and the entire team!
As Gaida, the co-founder and CEO, said, "Thank you 1909 for your support from the accelerator program to an exit! We appreciate you and the community you have created."
Ashley, their Head of Marketing, echoed this sentiment: "I know I speak on behalf of Gaida and Matt when I say this achievement wouldn't have been possible without the supportive environment and resources provided by 1909. Our coworking space's collaborative spirit and entrepreneurial energy have contributed significantly to our growth."
Gaida Zirkelbach, Co-Founder & CEO of SustainaBase, presenting during 1909's first Accelerator Program Cohort!
This is exactly the kind of success we strive for. Companies like SustainaBase come in, engage with our programming, and leverage our resources to grow their business. Then, they contribute back to the 1909 community, inspiring other founders and proving that the system works.
We’re beyond proud of what this team has accomplished and are excited to see them continue making waves. This journey— from joining our Accelerator program to a successful exit—represents the ultimate scenario for startups at 1909. It’s a full-circle story of growth, community, and giving back. Congratulations again to the SustainaBase family!