Seyi Fabode

Seyi's journey began after running operations for a major power station in London, giving him unique insights into complex utility systems. Inspired by the potential of entrepreneurship, he co-founded Power2Switch, a successful venture in the renewable energy space. However, it was the water crises across the US, notably the Flint, Michigan incident, that ignited Seyi's passion for water system resilience.

Varuna's origin story involves a DIY approach, developing a simple yet ingenious water quality sensor that mimicked a dishwasher's turbidity sensor. This concept evolved into a sophisticated tool that tracked water quality, providing real-time alerts and actionable recommendations for operators. Seyi's determination led him to rugged terrain and far-flung locations, laying the foundation for Varuna's success.

The business model's core strength lies in its profound understanding of the industry's challenges. The water management sector boasts extensive sales cycles, demanding patience and strategic foresight. However, with over 150,000 water systems in the US and substantial contracts, Varuna leverages high-margin software solutions that sit atop data-generating assets. A masterstroke is a partnership with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), opening doors to lucrative after-market services.