PluvioFlow originates from the long-standing research of three scientists: Professor Petter Pilesjö, Docent Andreas Persson, and Dr. Abdulghani Hassan. The latter is based at SLU, while the others are part of the GIS and geospatial research community at Lund University. Together, they represent backgrounds in geography, hydrology, and algorithm development.
Their joint research spans decades – with Petter having worked on these questions for over 35 years. The driving question has always been:
“How does rainwater actually move through our landscapes?”
Over time, the researchers have developed and published several algorithms that simulates how water accumulates during rainfall, how it flows through the landscape, that also can account for the dynamic aspect of flow – meaning how this changes over time.
Why It Matters
– If you know how much rain will fall in a specific area, and you can accurately predict how, when, and where it will flow, you can also anticipate flooding before it happens, says Jonatan Green Brzezinski, CEO of PluvioFlow. That creates an opportunity to reduce risk, prevent damage, and act in time.”
There are existing tools on the market.
– But they are often either too simple, assuming all water flows to the lowest point and misses crucial flow paths, or too complex, requiring enormous computer resources and skills not widely available”, says Jonatan.
PluvioFlow’s solution is unique because it is “just right”: scientifically advanced, yet practical and usable.
From Academia to Market
Despite the innovation, the original researchers were not driven by commercial ambitions.
“They published papers, shared their findings, and hoped someone else would take the next step”, says Jonatan.
Flooding is increasing due to two key reasons. The first is climate change. Warmer temperatures mean more evaporation, more moisture in the air, and more intense rain as a result. The second is urbanization. As we pave over land with asphalt and hard surfaces, less water is absorbed, and more water floods our streets and cities.
Recognizing the potential of their model, the researchers connected with mathematician Sam Sarwat, who helped the researchers develop the algorithm into a fast and usable tool with efficient programming.
While working at another water modeling firm, Sam stayed close to the field. When the need for better tools became clear, Lund University Ventures stepped in. They supported the creation of a company, helped establish a board and secure investors.
– By spring 2024, Sam was invited to join as CTO – and he accepted. ‘of course, I want to join, he said”!
Sam is now leading the development of a usable product based on the algorithm.
From MVP to Pilot Projects
By mid-2024, PluvioFlow had an early version (MVP) of the product, with potential users and market research already underway. Jonatan joined and outreach efforts began.
In early 2025, the team initiated pilot studies with key client segments in Sweden that are all getting more and more exposed to climate risk and must stay ahead of the curve.
– The current product works well, says Jonatan, even if it’s still a bit clunky in early-stage user experience. Our first pilot projects are already generating valuable insights.
The model requires quality input data, which municipalities and public agencies can often provide. The value? Better risk identification, more detailed analysis, and tools for faster decision-makers under increasing legal and climate-related pressure to adapt to a new reality.
Looking Ahead
The goal is to gather enough user feedback during spring and summer 2025 to validate the market, refine the product, and prepare for a full launch in late 2025.
And Jonatan?
Check out Jonatan’s profile here He has gained remarkable experiences from across the world.
Among other things he has a background in strategic communication and behavior change in across several conflict zones, joined an early AI vending-startup, studied sustainability, and worked internationally with the International Committee of the Red Cross in Papua New Guinea. He’s trained in international humanitarian law and has years of experience working with human rights, crisis communication, and complex systems.
Now as CEO of PluvioFlow, Jonatan leads the company’s product management, partnerships, and outreach.
Congratulations to PluvioFlow for being the recipient of the Ideon Stipend 2025!
The winner of the Ideon Stipend 2025 has developed an innovative, research-based solution to one of the major challenges of our time – sustainable water management in a changing climate. By combining advanced data analysis, hydrological models, and real-time monitoring, they help cities manage increasing rainfall and prevent flooding.
With a strong foundation in research from Lund University and based at Ideon Science Park, the team has demonstrated impressive drive, technical excellence, and a clear growth strategy. Their work contributes to building more resilient societies.
Previous stipend recipients:
2018: Björkström Robotic
2020: Cicada Health och Xenergic
2021: Resilio
2022: Mantis Photonics
2023: Strominate
2024: AdamanT Quanta
