Solaires Entreprises
Debt Financing in 2025
Solaires Entreprises Inc, based in Victoria, BC, is a Canadian cleantech company dedicated to advancing solar technology. Comprising a team of 23 professionals, including scientists and engineers, Solaires focuses on developing next-generation solar cells that utilize perovskite materials instead of traditional silicon. This innovative approach not only aims to enhance energy conversion efficiency but also promotes a sustainable manufacturing process, making solar photovoltaics more affordable. The company's technology is designed to generate electricity from both indoor light and sunlight, with applications that include light-emitting diodes. Solaires' advancements are positioned to support the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, delivering high power conversion efficiency and stability while allowing processing in ambient environments.
Future Fields
Grant in 2023
Future Fields is a company focused on sustainable production through insect biotechnology, specifically utilizing its EntoEngine™ platform, which leverages the genetic capabilities of fruit flies to generate environmentally friendly biomolecules. Founded in 2018 and based in Edmonton, Canada, Future Fields specializes in developing insect-based recombinant proteins that serve as growth components essential for cell culture. By prioritizing sustainability, the company aims to reduce the environmental impact of protein production while enhancing the economic feasibility of cell-based foods in the agriculture industry. Future Fields is supported by notable venture capital firms and investors from Silicon Valley and beyond.
New School Foods
Grant in 2023
New School Foods specializes in developing plant-based seafood alternatives that replicate the texture, flavor, and nutritional benefits of traditional seafood. The company's flagship product is a plant-based filet designed to resemble wild salmon, providing consumers with a similar cooking experience and taste. By offering these whole-muscle seafood substitutes, New School Foods aims to contribute to a more sustainable food system and promote kinder consumption practices.
Synergraze focuses on the development and production of a natural cattle feed additive designed to reduce methane emissions from cattle. The company's innovative product aims to prevent the release of methane during digestion, thereby supporting farmers in adopting sustainable agricultural practices. By improving agricultural productivity while minimizing environmental impacts, Synergraze contributes to a more sustainable livestock industry.
Cyclic Materials
Grant in 2023
Cyclic Materials specializes in recycling services that focus on recovering rare earth elements, aiming to minimize the need for new mining and support the shift towards electric mobility and cleaner energy solutions. The company employs an innovative process to extract critical metals from landfill-bound products, which can then be reintegrated into the manufacturing supply chain. By providing these recovered materials, Cyclic Materials assists industries such as wind energy, electric vehicles, and electronics in reducing carbon dioxide emissions and enhancing local supply, ultimately promoting a circular economy and sustainable resource management.
Green Graphite Technologies
Grant in 2022
Green Graphite Technologies focuses on developing an environmentally friendly process to purify natural flake graphite for use in electric vehicles. The company specializes in converting mined natural flake graphite and production scrap into battery-grade graphite suitable for lithium-ion batteries. By employing a sustainable approach, Green Graphite Technologies addresses the significant supply gap in the graphite market, thereby supporting the growing demand for electric vehicles. Their innovative technology aims to promote a cleaner and more efficient method of graphite production, contributing to the broader goal of sustainability in the battery industry.
Plaex Building Systems addresses the significant waste challenge in the construction industry by providing innovative solutions utilizing PLAEXcrete, a composite material made from over 90% recycled waste. The company specializes in transforming various types of plastic waste—including agricultural, marine, and municipal—into durable building materials. By creating modular construction blocks that eliminate the need for cutting or mortar, Plaex not only streamlines the building process but also offers a cost-effective alternative for builders. This approach not only promotes sustainability but also enables clients to effectively utilize recycled materials in diverse construction applications.
Reusables
Seed Round in 2022
Reusables.com focuses on addressing the significant waste generated by single-use packaging in the food service industry. The company offers a container tracking platform that assists restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores in shifting to reusable packaging, thereby enhancing customer loyalty and boosting sales. Utilizing IoT-enabled tracking technology, Reusables.com connects various stakeholders—including end-users, restaurants, cleaners, and logistics partners—creating a circular economy in urban environments. Their software platform ensures live visibility and connectivity between smart containers, streamlining the management of reusable assets. The company's service features stainless steel containers designed for multiple uses, which can be returned, sanitized, and reused extensively before being recycled. Through these efforts, Reusables.com aims to promote a zero-waste vision by replacing single-use options with sustainable alternatives.
Anodyne Chemistries
Grant in 2022
Anodyne Chemistries is focused on producing sustainable chemicals by utilizing nature's enzymes and renewable electricity. The company has developed innovative technologies that enable the transformation of carbon dioxide into valuable chemicals, materials, and fuels, traditionally derived from fossil fuels. By employing bioelectric pathways and engineering novel enzymes, Anodyne aims to maximize carbon efficiency in chemical production, thereby addressing climate change and reversing the carbon imbalance. Their approach not only eliminates emissions but also enhances cost-effectiveness for clients by enabling the biological conversion of carbon dioxide and bio-based feedstocks into various industrial chemicals. Based in Vancouver, Canada, Anodyne Chemistries is committed to creating a climate-positive world through advanced biochemistry and sustainable practices.
ZEN Electric Bikes
Grant in 2022
Zen Electric Bikes focuses on producing electric bikes designed to promote the adoption of electrified transportation. By offering a variety of e-bikes available in multiple colors at affordable prices, the company aims to provide efficient and environmentally-friendly transportation solutions. Zen Electric Bikes emphasizes reducing carbon footprints and supports mental and physical well-being through active mobility. Additionally, the company is committed to creating sustainable practices that benefit both the planet and humanity, reinforcing the positive impact of electric mobility on modern transportation.
Sollum Technologies Inc., established in 2015 and headquartered in Montreal, Canada, specializes in designing and manufacturing innovative lighting systems. The company's core products are LED hardware and a programmable platform that mimic the natural light spectrum and circadian rhythm, optimizing growth conditions for crops and animals. Sollum's solutions are tailored to greenhouse producers, offering dynamic, full-spectrum LED lighting that adapts to various growth stages and native climates. This results in significant energy savings, enhanced productivity, and superior produce quality, while also being environmentally responsible.
SolarSteam
Seed Round in 2022
SolarSteam is a hardtech startup focused on creating innovative renewable concentrated solar technology aimed at reducing the costs and emissions associated with heat generation. The company targets hard-to-abate industries, such as cement, steel, chemicals, food and alcohol production, and mining, which depend on high-temperature heat from carbon-intensive sources. By providing an alternative energy solution, SolarSteam enables these industries to transition to more sustainable practices while effectively addressing rising energy costs and minimizing their carbon footprint.
Mikro-Tek is an environmental biotechnology company based in Timmins, Ontario, focused on carbon project development and the supply of carbon offset credits. Since its inception in 2003, the company has implemented its technology in various land use projects, particularly in forestry. Mikro-Tek has successfully planted new forests across more than 7,500 hectares of unproductive land in Chile and has also engaged in reforestation initiatives in the Canadian boreal forest. These efforts have resulted in the generation of approximately 1.4 million carbon offset credits, which are available to industries aiming to meet their emission reduction goals in a sustainable manner. In addition to its carbon offset projects, Mikro-Tek produces naturally-occurring soil micro-organisms known as mycorrhizal fungi, further contributing to environmental sustainability.
Polystyvert Inc., founded in 2011 and based in Anjou, Canada, specializes in polystyrene recycling services. The company utilizes innovative dissolution technology to efficiently collect and recycle polystyrene, restoring it to its original quality. By doing so, Polystyvert aims to significantly reduce the amount of polystyrene waste in landfills while minimizing fossil fuel consumption and promoting environmental sustainability. Their approach not only enhances the product life cycle of polystyrene but also contributes to eco-friendly practices within the industry.
SENTRY is a Canadian company that specializes in biological monitoring solutions for the water and wastewater treatment industry. It has developed a bio-electrode sensor technology that provides real-time insights into microbial performance within both anaerobic and aerobic treatment systems. By monitoring microbial metabolic activity, SENTRY's platform enables operators to make immediate adjustments to optimize treatment processes and minimize adverse effects on water system performance. With a focus on enhancing operational efficiency, SENTRY serves a global customer base, addressing the critical needs of water management in various settings.
GHGSat specializes in remote sensing of greenhouse gas emissions, air quality gases, and other trace gases from industrial sources worldwide. The company launched the first high-resolution satellite capable of measuring greenhouse gas emissions, such as CO2 and CH4, in June 2016, enabling near-real-time monitoring of emissions from any facility globally. This patented technology allows industrial facility owners to track emissions with improved accuracy and at a lower cost than traditional methods. Following the success of its initial satellite, GHGSat has expanded its fleet, with additional satellites launched and more planned to enhance monitoring capabilities. The technology is also employed on aircraft for complementary monitoring in regions like shale plays. Additionally, GHGSat is exploring applications for monitoring air quality gases and other trace gases, developing business cases for industries such as maritime shipping to measure sulfur oxides. Overall, GHGSat provides critical data and insights that assist businesses, governments, and regulators in making informed decisions aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainability.
Pani Energy
Seed Round in 2021
Pani helps optimize water treatment plants, accelerating the water sector toward net zero. Current product: a cloud-based machine learning software platform that can elevate the efficiency of industrial and city scale desalination and wastewater treatment plants, without any retrofits or disruption to operations. Pani's award-winning AI Coach™ aggregates and ingests data from the plant, then analyzes, visualizes, and instructs operators how to optimize their plant's performance, saving time, resources, and the environment.
Viridis Terra
Venture Round in 2021
Viridis Terra International is dedicated to the restoration of degraded ecosystems, lands, and soils. The company specializes in the formulation, implementation, and sustainable management of large-scale reforestation, afforestation, and forest and agroforest landscape restoration projects. By employing advanced biotechnologies, Viridis Terra enhances the survival and productivity of trees in challenging environments, addressing the critical issue of land degradation. Their efforts not only facilitate nature-based carbon removal but also provide nature-positive commodities, ultimately improving the quality of life for landholders involved in these initiatives.
RainStick is a company that has developed a WiFi-enabled shower system designed to significantly reduce water and energy consumption while maintaining a luxurious shower experience. Their innovative product recirculates and filters water, allowing users to save up to 80% in both water and energy usage. Additionally, the shower system includes features that track real-time water and energy savings, providing users with insights into their consumption patterns. By focusing on sustainability and advanced shower technology, RainStick aims to transform traditional showering practices into an eco-friendly experience.
Environmental Material Science
Grant in 2021
EMS is a technological solution. They are dedicated to solving the environmental management and sustainability challenges faced by their customers.Their services include pipelines, consulting groups, pipeline service companies, refineries, small town municipalities, agricultural companies, and mining companies.
Maxen
Pre Seed Round in 2021
Maxen is a Montreal-based company focused on reducing the environmental footprint of buildings by enhancing energy efficiency and operational management. The company develops management systems that allow building managers to optimize their operations and energy processes. Maxen's platform facilitates equipment audits compatible with computerized maintenance management systems, integrating seamlessly with clients' building management systems. This approach enables businesses to achieve centralized, structured, and accessible operations management, ultimately promoting sustainable practices within the built environment.
Pani helps optimize water treatment plants, accelerating the water sector toward net zero. Current product: a cloud-based machine learning software platform that can elevate the efficiency of industrial and city scale desalination and wastewater treatment plants, without any retrofits or disruption to operations. Pani's award-winning AI Coach™ aggregates and ingests data from the plant, then analyzes, visualizes, and instructs operators how to optimize their plant's performance, saving time, resources, and the environment.
Freshr Sustainable Technologies
Seed Round in 2020
Freshr Technologies specializes in developing compostable active packaging materials aimed at extending the shelf life of fresh foods, with a focus on fresh fish as its initial market. These innovative materials are crafted from naturally derived resources, designed to maintain the texture and moisture of fish while targeting harmful bacteria. This approach not only helps fish processing companies minimize waste but also addresses the growing need for sustainable packaging solutions, reducing reliance on traditional plastics. By combining sustainability with functionality, Freshr Technologies aims to contribute to a reduction in food waste while promoting environmentally friendly practices in the food industry.
Anomera is a company focused on sustainable manufacturing processes that convert wood pulp and waste from the forest industry into advanced bio-products. Its primary product is a natural cellulose ingredient designed for the cosmetic and skin care markets, offering a performance-enhancing alternative to traditional chemical components. Anomera's innovative approach includes developing carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals, which aim to replace plastic microbeads and silicates with biodegradable options. The company also has a roadmap of follow-on applications, such as DextraCel™ materials, which target various industries including environmentally friendly inks, coatings, composites, and medical/life sciences. Through its research and development, Anomera enables industries to adopt more sustainable practices while improving operational efficiency.
Sollum Technologies Inc., established in 2015 and headquartered in Montreal, Canada, specializes in designing and manufacturing innovative lighting systems. The company's core products are LED hardware and a programmable platform that mimic the natural light spectrum and circadian rhythm, optimizing growth conditions for crops and animals. Sollum's solutions are tailored to greenhouse producers, offering dynamic, full-spectrum LED lighting that adapts to various growth stages and native climates. This results in significant energy savings, enhanced productivity, and superior produce quality, while also being environmentally responsible.
EcoPackers Inc. is a Toronto-based company established in 2018 that specializes in the production and sale of biodegradable packaging materials. The company focuses on creating eco-resins derived from plants, offering a 100% biodegradable alternative to traditional plastic inputs. These eco-resins enable plastic manufacturers globally to develop innovative, non-toxic, and compostable single-use packaging solutions. Through its commitment to sustainability, EcoPackers aims to reduce the environmental impact of plastic packaging.
Power HV
Seed Round in 2020
Power HV is creating ground-breaking technology, decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and saving money along the way.
Synauta is a cleantech startup founded in 2018 that focuses on enhancing the efficiency of desalination processes through advanced technology. The company collaborates with innovators in desalination and water reuse across Europe, Australia, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and North America, all united by the goal of minimizing energy and chemical consumption in water treatment. By employing machine learning and artificial intelligence algorithms, Synauta's solutions aim to optimize operations at desalination plants, allowing clients to achieve significant cost savings while improving productivity. The company estimates that its approach could lead to a reduction of 12 million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually in the global industry, contributing to a more sustainable future where energy and water resources are utilized more responsibly.
Enersion is a research and development company focused on innovative cooling, heating, and electricity solutions. It specializes in the creation of an adsorption chiller that utilizes nano-porous materials to convert waste heat directly into cooling, thereby eliminating the need for electrically powered compressors and synthetic refrigerants. The company's Tri-Generation technology efficiently transforms waste heat produced during power generation into both cooling and electricity, optimizing energy use and reducing costs. By employing natural gas and harnessing heat in the form of hot water, Enersion's products enable clients to achieve sustainable cooling and energy solutions that are both environmentally friendly and economically advantageous.
C2CNT specializes in carbon dioxide conversion technology aimed at mitigating climate change. The company focuses on capturing carbon dioxide emissions from thermal power generation and various industrial processes, transforming this greenhouse gas into valuable carbon nanotubes. Through its innovative approach, C2CNT produces sustainable and high-quality carbon nanotubes from recycled carbon dioxide, contributing to environmental sustainability and enabling a reduction in the impacts of global warming. In addition to manufacturing these products, C2CNT also licenses its carbon capture technology, positioning itself as a key player in the effort to combat climate change.
EnerPure is a cleantech energy company focused on recycling waste petroleum into a clean source of fuel and energy. The company has developed advanced technology that processes waste oil through several stages, including pre-treatment, preparation of feedstock, and refining via distillation and filtration to produce diesel fuel. This innovative approach not only helps clients minimize the environmental impact associated with waste oil but also contributes to local employment opportunities. By transforming waste petroleum into usable energy, EnerPure plays a significant role in promoting sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
CelluFuel Inc. specializes in producing synthetic renewable fuels derived from forestry resources. Established in 2008 and headquartered in Halifax, Canada, the company is dedicated to advancing the commercialization of renewable liquid fuels across North America. It focuses on the development and deployment of innovative technology that converts woody biomass into renewable diesel fuel. By operating a synthetic renewable fuel refinery, CelluFuel aims to provide sustainable energy solutions that deliver both economic and environmental benefits.
GHGSat specializes in remote sensing of greenhouse gas emissions, air quality gases, and other trace gases from industrial sources worldwide. The company launched the first high-resolution satellite capable of measuring greenhouse gas emissions, such as CO2 and CH4, in June 2016, enabling near-real-time monitoring of emissions from any facility globally. This patented technology allows industrial facility owners to track emissions with improved accuracy and at a lower cost than traditional methods. Following the success of its initial satellite, GHGSat has expanded its fleet, with additional satellites launched and more planned to enhance monitoring capabilities. The technology is also employed on aircraft for complementary monitoring in regions like shale plays. Additionally, GHGSat is exploring applications for monitoring air quality gases and other trace gases, developing business cases for industries such as maritime shipping to measure sulfur oxides. Overall, GHGSat provides critical data and insights that assist businesses, governments, and regulators in making informed decisions aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainability.
Pani helps optimize water treatment plants, accelerating the water sector toward net zero. Current product: a cloud-based machine learning software platform that can elevate the efficiency of industrial and city scale desalination and wastewater treatment plants, without any retrofits or disruption to operations. Pani's award-winning AI Coach™ aggregates and ingests data from the plant, then analyzes, visualizes, and instructs operators how to optimize their plant's performance, saving time, resources, and the environment.
SucSeed is a socially-driven hydroponics company. They sell their grow tanks and accessories to households across Canada. Their at-home hydroponic systems are built by Choices For Youth, an organization that supports and employs youth facing barriers to work and housing.
CarbiCrete is a Montreal-based company that specializes in carbon removal technology aimed at producing low-cost, sustainable building solutions. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Westmount, Canada, the company has developed a process for creating cement-free, carbon-negative concrete. This innovative concrete utilizes industrial by-products and captured carbon dioxide, replacing traditional cement with steel slag and curing the mixture with carbon dioxide. This method not only prevents the greenhouse gas emissions typically associated with cement production but also permanently removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. By licensing its technology to precast concrete manufacturers, CarbiCrete enables businesses to significantly reduce their greenhouse gas emissions while promoting environmentally friendly construction practices.
Polystyvert
Venture Round in 2018
Polystyvert Inc., founded in 2011 and based in Anjou, Canada, specializes in polystyrene recycling services. The company utilizes innovative dissolution technology to efficiently collect and recycle polystyrene, restoring it to its original quality. By doing so, Polystyvert aims to significantly reduce the amount of polystyrene waste in landfills while minimizing fossil fuel consumption and promoting environmental sustainability. Their approach not only enhances the product life cycle of polystyrene but also contributes to eco-friendly practices within the industry.
MEG Energy Corp., established in 1999 and headquartered in Calgary, Canada, specializes in sustainable in situ thermal oil production in the southern Athabasca region of Alberta. The company owns a substantial mineral lease area of approximately 750 square miles and employs steam-assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) methods to extract oil while minimizing carbon emissions. MEG primarily operates at its Christina Lake Project and transports its product, Access Western Blend, to refiners across North America and internationally. Additionally, MEG owns interests in midstream assets such as the Access Pipeline and Stonefell Terminal, which enhance its operational efficiency and market flexibility. The company is committed to technological advancements like the Diluent Removal Facility and HI-Q® project to further reduce costs and environmental impacts. MEG's experienced team, with extensive industry knowledge, drives its strategic growth plans, positioning it as a strong player in the oil sands sector.
Springpower International
Grant in 2018
Springpower is a manufacturing company that specializes in producing clean cathode materials for battery manufacturers. The company focuses on developing and commercializing graphene and silicon nanomaterials specifically designed for lithium-ion batteries. These materials are engineered to require less water and energy during production, while also generating no wastewater, thereby eliminating the need for costly wastewater treatment processes. By providing these innovative and environmentally friendly materials, Springpower supports battery manufacturers in accelerating the development of electric vehicles, contributing to a more sustainable and cost-effective future in energy storage technologies.
NRStor Inc., established in 2012 and headquartered in Toronto, Canada, specializes in developing, owning, and operating energy storage projects. The company focuses on accelerating the commercialization of reliable, cost-effective energy storage technologies, bridging the gap between electricity demand and renewable energy sources. NRStor serves a diverse range of clients, including grid operators, commercial entities, and utilities across North America, providing turn-key energy-as-a-service solutions. These solutions include stand-alone energy storage systems, renewable coupled systems, and microgrids, all centrally managed through a state-of-the-art operational platform. NRStor's business model involves building, owning, and operating these projects, requiring no upfront capital or operational expertise from its customers.
waterStrider Treatment
Grant in 2017
waterStrider treatment removes oil, sulphide, bacteria, metals, and suspended solids from frac water, making it reusable for a fraction of the price of current fresh water use at fracking sites. In doing so, the environmental impact and costs associated with fracking are dramatically reduced.
GreenMantra Technologies
Venture Round in 2017
GreenMantra Technologies Ltd. is a Canadian company based in Brantford that specializes in the manufacture and marketing of synthetic waxes, polymer additives, and specialty chemicals derived from recycled plastics. Established in 2010, the company employs a proprietary thermo-catalytic process to efficiently convert waste plastics, including challenging materials like grocery bags and film, into valuable products. Its offerings include polyethylene and polypropylene waxes, which are utilized in various industries such as asphalt roofing, paving, polymer processing, adhesives, and plastic composites. By focusing on the upcycling of hard-to-recycle plastics, GreenMantra contributes to sustainable practices while providing high-quality materials that cater to diverse manufacturing needs.
Sustane is a cleantech company focused on transforming municipal waste into valuable resources. By employing innovative technologies, Sustane converts solid waste streams into high-value fuels and recyclable materials. This process not only helps clients manage waste more efficiently but also assists in reducing reliance on landfills. Through its waste-transformation technology, Sustane aims to provide sustainable solutions that benefit both the environment and the economy.
Heliene is a manufacturer of solar panels that aims to serve the utility-scale, commercial, and residential markets. The company focuses on delivering intelligent photovoltaic products as integrated solar module systems, ensuring they are available precisely when and where customers need them. By leveraging advanced technology and maintaining low levels of debt and fixed costs, Heliene operates a sustainable business model that emphasizes high-quality, reliable products. Positioned as a significant player in the growing Solar Energy Infrastructure market in Ontario, Heliene strives to contribute to the transition towards more sustainable energy solutions, addressing the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while supporting the solar power generation industry's supply chain.
QD Solar Inc. is a Canadian company based in Toronto that specializes in the development of advanced photovoltaic cells utilizing colloidal quantum dot technology. Founded in 2014 as a spinoff from the University of Toronto, QD Solar combines silicon solar cells with infrared solar cells in a hybrid architecture. This innovative approach allows the company to capture a broader range of the solar spectrum compared to traditional silicon cells alone. By enhancing the efficiency of solar energy harvesting, QD Solar aims to address the competitive pressures in the solar photovoltaic market, where differentiation through improved performance at competitive costs is essential. The company's technology promotes sustainable development and aims to increase the adoption of renewable energy sources.
Canfor is one of the largest producers of sustainable lumber, pulp, and paper globally. Established in 1938 by John Prentice and L.L.G. Bentley in Vancouver, the company began as a small veneer plant and has since evolved into a respected leader in the forest products industry, employing over 5,000 people. Canfor operates primarily in North America and Europe, with lumber mills located in British Columbia, Alberta, the Southeastern United States, and Sweden. The company has two main segments: lumber, which encompasses sawmilling and remanufacturing operations, and pulp and paper, which includes kraft pulp, kraft paper, and bleached chemi-thermomechanical pulp. Canfor is recognized for its commitment to quality products, reliable supply, and exceptional customer service, while also focusing on sustainable, renewable resources to meet the growing global demand.
Advonex International
Venture Round in 2016
Advonex International specializes in producing plant-based hydrocarbons aimed at enhancing performance across various personal care and industrial applications. By utilizing non-GMO, sustainably grown seed crops such as canola, soybeans, corn, palm, and coconut, the company offers cost-effective alternatives to traditional materials like waxes, petrolatum, and mineral and silicone oils. Their focus on sustainability and innovation positions them as a valuable partner for businesses seeking to improve their product offerings while contributing to a more sustainable world. The company's dedicated team and flexible operational approach are central to its competitive advantage, enabling the development of effective solutions tailored to client needs.
Polystyvert
Venture Round in 2016
Polystyvert Inc., founded in 2011 and based in Anjou, Canada, specializes in polystyrene recycling services. The company utilizes innovative dissolution technology to efficiently collect and recycle polystyrene, restoring it to its original quality. By doing so, Polystyvert aims to significantly reduce the amount of polystyrene waste in landfills while minimizing fossil fuel consumption and promoting environmental sustainability. Their approach not only enhances the product life cycle of polystyrene but also contributes to eco-friendly practices within the industry.
NextGrid specializes in the development and manufacturing of a micro-steam turbine combined heat and power (CHP) system designed for multi-residential and small commercial applications. This innovative system utilizes advanced turbine and combustion technologies to deliver hot water and electricity with significantly enhanced fuel efficiency, achieving up to 50 percent higher efficiency compared to conventional water heaters. The CHP system is particularly beneficial for markets such as hotels, multi-unit residential buildings, and various commercial operations, as it helps reduce electricity transportation and distribution losses, resulting in cost savings for users and promoting more sustainable energy practices.
QD Solar
Seed Round in 2016
QD Solar Inc. is a Canadian company based in Toronto that specializes in the development of advanced photovoltaic cells utilizing colloidal quantum dot technology. Founded in 2014 as a spinoff from the University of Toronto, QD Solar combines silicon solar cells with infrared solar cells in a hybrid architecture. This innovative approach allows the company to capture a broader range of the solar spectrum compared to traditional silicon cells alone. By enhancing the efficiency of solar energy harvesting, QD Solar aims to address the competitive pressures in the solar photovoltaic market, where differentiation through improved performance at competitive costs is essential. The company's technology promotes sustainable development and aims to increase the adoption of renewable energy sources.
Svante Inc., established in 2007 and headquartered in Burnaby, Canada, specializes in carbon capture and removal solutions. The company develops and manufactures novel solid sorbents, structured adsorbent filters, and rotary contactor machines for post-combustion industrial carbon capture and direct air capture. Svante's leading-edge technology captures and concentrates CO2 from heavy industries' emissions and the atmosphere, enabling customers to reduce capital costs and energy consumption. The company partners with global CCUS stakeholders to scale the industry and facilitate source-to-sink carbon capture projects.
Steeper Energy
Grant in 2015
Steeper Energy specializes in the development of advanced biofuels derived from low-value biomass, including agricultural and forestry residues, as well as urban organic waste. The company's proprietary Hydrofaction™ process effectively converts this biomass into renewable transport fuels with high energy density, facilitating a transition to low-carbon alternatives for the heavy transport sector, which includes trucking, marine, and aviation industries. As global efforts intensify to reduce carbon emissions from fossil fuels, Steeper Energy's technology addresses a critical need by providing a sustainable solution that integrates into existing infrastructure. This innovative approach not only helps mitigate climate change impacts but also creates value-added products from organic waste. With an experienced team and strong industrial partnerships, Steeper Energy is positioned as a leader in advancing a low-carbon transport future.
Performance Plants
Venture Round in 2009
Performance Plants Inc. is an agricultural biotechnology company focused on enhancing crop yields and resilience through gene discovery and trait development. Founded in 1995 and based in Kingston, Canada, the company specializes in technologies that improve productivity in major staple crops, such as corn, soybeans, and canola, as well as biomass crops like switchgrass and industrial hemp for biofuel production. Performance Plants offers a range of innovations, including Yield Protection Technology, Heat and Drought Tolerance Technology, and Water Efficiency Technology, which allow farmers to increase yields while minimizing irrigation needs and reducing chemical usage. The company has established licensing agreements with leading multinational seed firms and has successfully entered markets in China and India. Notably, Performance Plants regulates the plant's own genes rather than introducing foreign genes, promoting sustainable agricultural practices. With a strong research and development foundation, Performance Plants is committed to addressing the challenges of climate variability and food security globally.