Tall Grass, Big Impact: How Hexas is Growing the Future 

In the face of escalating environmental challenges, innovative solutions are imperative. Hexas Biomass, founded by Wendy Owens in May 2020, stands at the forefront of this innovation, offering sustainable, plant-based raw materials that serve as alternatives to wood, food crops for fuel, and fossil fuel-based resources. 

A Vision Rooted in Sustainability 

Wendy Owens, a serial entrepreneur with a background in advanced materials engineering and biotechnology, as well as mountaineering and agriculture, established Hexas Biomass in Olympia, Washington. Her mission is to provide eco-friendly alternatives to traditional raw materials, thereby reducing deforestation and environmental degradation. 

Introducing XanoGrass™ and XanoFiber™ 

Central to Hexas’s offerings are XanoGrass™ and its derivative, XanoFiber™. XanoGrass™ is a proprietary giant perennial grass that can reach heights of up to 15 feet. It is fast-growing, pest-resistant, and adaptable to various climates and soil types, including marginal lands. XanoFiber™, derived from XanoGrass™, is a versatile fiber suitable for multiple applications: 

  • Biofuels: XanoFiber™ can be converted into biofuels, offering a sustainable energy source that doesn’t compete with food crops. 
  • Materials: It serves as a substitute for wood in structural and non-structural materials such as particle board, paper, and textiles. 
  • Biochemical Manufacturing: The sugars in XanoFiber™ are valuable for biochemical production, providing a renewable resource for various industries. 

By integrating XanoFiber™ into existing manufacturing processes, companies can reduce reliance on traditional raw materials without significant infrastructure changes. 

Collaborative Efforts and Achievements 

Hexas’s journey has been bolstered by collaborations with organizations like the Small Business Administration (SBA) in Lacey, Washington, the Thurston Economic Development Council’s Washington APEX Accelerator team, and the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. These partnerships have been instrumental in securing grants and navigating the complexities of funding. Wendy notes, “EDC’s APEX team helped me submit my first proposal that kick-started my success in the SBIR program.” 

Having Hexas advance to Phase 2 of the SBIR program enabled collaboration with national energy laboratories to optimize XanoFiber™ for standard aviation fuel. This partnership underscores the potential of XanoFiber™ in contributing to sustainable aviation solutions. 

Empowering Female Entrepreneurs 

Wendy’s journey offers valuable insights for female entrepreneurs. She emphasizes the importance of self-belief, honesty, and meticulous planning. “You have to believe in yourself and be brutally honest. Always be prepared and know your customer inside out,” she advises. 

Looking Ahead 

Hexas Biomass is poised to make a significant impact on both the industry and the environment. By providing sustainable alternatives to traditional raw materials, Hexas is not only fostering environmental preservation but also contributing to the global shift towards renewable resources. 

For more information, visit hexas.com. 

Are you a local farmer? Please take a few minutes to complete a survey from Hexas: Survey of Agricultural Industry for Knowledge of, Attitudes Towards, and Willingness to Produce Bioenergy Crops.

Additional sources outside of the EDC’s interview with Hexas:  

https://www.series.green/profile/HexasBiomass
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6EaFzwNdh4&t=51s