Last year, a medical device company developing biomaterials-based solutions for complex wounds graduated from the 2023 Biomedical Engineering stream of the Creative Destruction Lab program at University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business.
The Quebec-born BioMimir uses synthetic biomimetics to design biomaterials that are self-adhesive, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic, with products targeting complex wounds like ulcers, abscesses, and fistulas.
Initially launched in 2012 by Professor Ajay Agrawal at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management, the Destruction Lab program expanded BioMimir’s network and provided “unique, actionable innovation insights,” according to chief executive officer Fiona Simpson at the time of graduation.
Following the CDL, BioMimir headed to Alberta to participate in the Life Sciences Fellowship, an immersive full-time experience that takes early-stage startups with technology-driven solutions to problems and adds funding, development resources, professional training, and other forms of support.
Hosted by Innovate Calgary at the University of Calgary, the Fellowship is supported by Alberta Innovates; Alberta Ministry of Jobs, Economy and Northern Development; Calgary Economic Development’s Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund; Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, and Prairies Economic Development Canada.
The program can last up to two years, but is ultimately tailored to the needs of each individual startup.
BioMimir completed its time there this month.
“The flexibility and customizability [of the Life Sciences Fellowship] make it one of the most effective programs that we’ve participated in,” Simpson said.
Innovate Calgary described the outgoing Fellowship, including BioMimir, as “emerging pioneers . . . poised to disrupt and redefine the landscape of digital health and life sciences.”
RetinaLogik, a tech startup targeting the eye care field, and Stroke.ai, which is applying hardware and AI solutions to stroke patients, also graduated from the Fellowship.
BioMimir specifically sits “at the forefront of regenerative medicine,” according to Innovate Calgary, as it aims to innovate health-tech toward accessible and affordable regenerative medicine on a global scale.
BioMimir was founded in 2021 by Simpson, Elle Edin, and Benjamin Yam.
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