Profession: Scientist

Inspired by: Edwards is focused on lowest-cost, least-maintenance solar-thermal power, and has gotten there in successful prototype stages. Partner Mike Brown has invested a decade and all his personal funds in developing his extraordinary Safemate dryer: more efficient, faster drying, and... almost alone in NOT being a fire hazard. Together, these address the cost problems of hotel linens (11 pounds/room/day) while avoiding the fire dangers of conventional dryers.