Biocene Solutions

Biocene Solutions is a cleantech startup based in Montreal. Our flagship product, Algo, is designed to tackle the issue of harmful algal blooms. Algal blooms are overgrowths of algae that can produce toxins and block sunlight from aquatic organisms, effectively creating dead zones in bodies of water. Existing solutions for algae removal involve chemical treatment or the use of ultrasound devices, among others, however these methods can have adverse effects on ecosystems and are typically very costly. Algo is a device that will both remove excess algae from bodies of water without the use of harmful water treatment methods, and valorise the collected algae for products such as biofuel and fertilizer. Our aim is to activate green markets which incentivize the restoration of natural ecosystems, through circular, sustainable consumption of resources. Starting off as a passion project in McGill BioDesign, an engineering design club affiliated with McGill University, Biocene Solutions was founded by a group of undergraduate students with a shared desire to leverage bio-inspired solutions for real world issues. Conceiving an algae-harvesting device, Algo entered into McGill’s bicentennial student sustainability challenge, impact200, where our creativity and commercial viability were recognized with the Public Vote Award. Wanting to push our idea even further, Algo entered McGill's Dobson Cup, an entrepreneurial competition cultivating the best of the university’s talent, and finished in 3rd place in the Environmental Enterprise track. We have recently completed the Dobson X-1 accelerator program, which has provided us with the tools and mentorship to run a business and attract additional funding. Our team has been matched with mentors to aid in our growth for the next 12 months. We are currently participating in the Centech Acceleration Program, a 12-week program offering us personalized support and access to workshops and resources that will strengthen our business.