L2M – Astaxanthin-secreting probiotic

A novel astaxanthin-secreting microorganism has been developed as a part of the intern’s graduate research focus. This technology has applications primarily in the aquaculture and nutraceutical industries. In aquaculture, it can be used to better deliver astaxanthin, an essential nutrient, to salmon and trout compared to current methods. This technology has the potential to reduce costs for aquaculture farmers, as astaxanthin alone makes up 30-40% of total feed costs; improve the health, resilience, and quality of the fish; and is more sustainable that current astaxanthin sources.

The Lab2Market Launch project aims to translate this technology-based innovation into a commercially viable solution for the Canadian aquaculture industry. The primary objective is to build the business, regulatory, and commercialization expertise required to move beyond proof-of-concept and toward market readiness. The Lab2Market Launch will provide interns with structured training and expert mentorship. Through weekly workshops, one-on-one coaching, simulated board meetings, and peer learning, interns will refine their target market, validate customer needs, develop a go-to-market strategy, and evaluate pricing and scaling models. The program will also strengthen intherns’ leadership and entrepreneurial skills while connecting interns with industry stakeholders and potential partners. By the end of the Lab2Market Launch program, the interns’ technology innovation will have a clearly defined commercialization pathway, a validated business model, and a strategic roadmap to bring a low-cost, sustainable astaxanthin to the aquaculture industry.

Faculty Supervisor:

Valerie Ward

Student:

Partner:

DMZ Ventures Inc

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: