Sustainable insect agriculture
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Validating a valuable new side product to expand revenues and close the production loop.
How a crucial investment in field trials opened up a world of sustainable opportunity
The Opportunity
Feeding the growing population without damaging the earth is a challenge. Entosystem is tackling this issue on three fronts: diverting food waste to feed their insects; using insects as a sustainable source of protein and other nutrients for pet and animal feed; and converting the waste from the insects into an effective fertilizer to help farmers increase their yields.
The Challenge
Entosystem knew that frass – the biproducts of insect agriculture – had a great impact on soil and plant health. But farmers need hard data to make a purchasing decision. Entosystem needed to conduct scientific field trials under the guidance of an agronomist to ensure they were meeting customer demands.
NPC has been a key supporter from the beginning, playing a crucial role at various stages of our development. We deeply appreciate their continued support and the progress it has enabled.
NPC’s Solution
NPC invested $250,000 through its Proof of Concept Program so that Entosystem could conduct field trials on select priority crops. With the trials, Entosystem was able to secure interest from customers and confirm the business case for this important side stream of revenue from their new 100,000 sq. ft. facility.
NPC is committed to the creation of natural products that are better for people, animals and the planet. We propel early-stage Canadian innovators with the advice, connections and capital they need to develop and de-risk their solutions quickly and efficiently.
Entosystem
Description:
Sector(s):
Agriculture, Animal, AgtechFunding Type:
Proof of ConceptProvince:
QuebecFunding Amount:
$250,000
Year of Funding:
2023Name:
Cédric Provost