Creative Destruction Lab (CDL)

Soarce is on a mission to decarbonize performance apparel with advanced material solutions powered by plants. We help apparel brands replace synthetic materials with a multifunctional one made of seaweed and nanomaterials. Our solution can be made into high performing and plastic free leathers and fabrics. Our material protects against fire, UV, and chemical exposure to help introduce the next generation of functional and radically sustainable apparel. We are taking drastic action against climate change by reimagining how we make products by starting at the source.

SunGreenH2 is a company focused on producing green hydrogen through advanced nanotechnology and proprietary electrolysis systems. Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Singapore, with additional offices in Melbourne and London, the company has developed a modular and scalable electrolyser stack that enables efficient on-site hydrogen production using only sunlight and water. This innovative approach results in zero emissions and significantly reduces costs, facilitating the widespread adoption of green hydrogen across various sectors, including transportation, energy storage, and specialty chemicals. With over a decade of research in electrochemistry and nanotechnology, SunGreenH2 aims to unlock sustainable and scalable hydrogen solutions for industries worldwide.

Qurcan Therapeutics is focused on developing advanced therapeutic solutions for solid tumors, particularly brain cancers. The company has created a nanotechnology-based drug delivery platform that enhances the precision of cancer treatment by overcoming challenges associated with traditional drug delivery methods. This platform improves the release of therapeutic agents while minimizing liver accumulation, allowing for more effective targeting of difficult-to-reach tumors. Among its innovations is Manganescan®, a theranostic agent that serves as both an MRI contrast agent and a radio-sensitizer, enabling early detection of brain tumors and enhancing the effectiveness of radiation therapy. By facilitating improved drug delivery and modulating the tumor microenvironment, Qurcan Therapeutics aims to increase therapeutic efficacy and extend patient survival in the fight against solid tumor cancers.

Index Biosystems is a genetic food system traceability solutions provider specializing in source-of-origin traceability and identity preservation. By guaranteeing sub-population level source-of-origin identification, we empower a TraceForward approach to traceability. Index’s core technology involves inserting an inert genetic construct into food system products - a Nuclid™. This includes inputs, feed, seed, food and additives. Identification can be accurately achieved within a few hours independent of packaging (even in co-mingled or transformed products), greatly reducing the impacts of any recall. Our solution works in concert with legacy systems and expands the scope of what is traceable - from seed to waste, including post-digestion. Because this solution provides simple identification, there are many use-cases. Some use cases that we’ve identified include: Recall scope reduction Operational insights GMO identification Fraud identification Feed and seed security IP tracking Food system certification Waste tracking

Nfinite Nanotechnology is an advanced material company that enables breakthrough innovations to redefine how we live, use, and create using open-air atomic layer deposition (ALD) technology. Nfinite makes functional nanomaterials that accelerate the development and commercialization of transformative technologies for a sustainable future, such as sustainable packaging, batteries, and photovoltaics. They have created a rapid open-air nanocoating system that produces large-area, high-quality, ultrathin films at up to 100x the speed of conventional ALD at a lower cost.

Nanochon is focused on creating innovative implantable medical devices designed to address cartilage damage in joints. Utilizing advanced 3D printing techniques and a unique nanomaterial, the company aims to develop solutions that not only replace lost and damaged cartilage but also promote the growth of new tissue. This approach allows medical practitioners to access cost-effective and on-demand devices that enhance treatment outcomes, particularly for young and active patients suffering from knee injuries and diseases. Through its technology, Nanochon seeks to improve the overall quality of care in orthopedics.

Seppure Technologies is focused on transforming the energy-intensive processes of chemical separation and purification across various industries. By introducing innovative chemical-resistant nanofiltration membranes, Seppure aims to replace traditional methods like distillation and evaporation, which are known for their high energy consumption and environmental impact. The company's sustainable technology operates without the need for heat, significantly reducing global energy use, emissions, and pollution. This approach not only enhances efficiency in industrial-scale chemical separations but also contributes to a more sustainable future.

NanoTess is a company specializing in the commercialization of nanotechnology solutions aimed at addressing various health-related challenges. It focuses on developing biocompatible and bio-selective medical products, particularly wound dressings designed for chronic conditions such as diabetic foot ulcers. By leveraging innovative nanotechnology, NanoTess provides healthcare professionals with effective tools to meet unmet medical needs, enhancing treatment options in the health and decontamination sectors.

LMT is a research and development company specializing in developing high-end scientific instrumentation. It utilizes advanced microfluidic, optical, spectroscopic, and chemical extraction techniques to create devices designed for a wide variety of scientific applications including use in space exploration, closed-cycle water analysis, environmental analysis, and biomedical and point-of-care analysis.

En Solución is focused on enhancing food safety by integrating novel technologies and advanced sensing and control processes. The company is currently developing a high-concentration nanobubble generating device that features recirculating and regenerative functions, designed to produce significant concentrations of nanobubbles in wash water baths. This innovative technology aims to offer superior efficacy in cleaning and sanitizing by combining effective pathogen-killing agents with an improved delivery and control system. By leveraging nanotechnology, En Solución seeks to provide clients with alternatives to traditional post-harvest chlorine washes, ultimately modernizing practices within the agriculture industry.

Summit Nanotech Corporation is a cleantech company based in Calgary, Canada, that specializes in innovative lithium extraction methods aimed at supporting the global energy transition. Founded in 2018, the company has developed a patented direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology that offers a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach compared to traditional extraction methods. By collaborating with mining companies and lithium asset owners in Chile and Argentina, Summit Nanotech aims to conserve natural resources while optimizing lithium production operations. Its focus on providing cost-effective solutions positions Summit Nanotech as a key player in the lithium supply chain, addressing industry challenges while minimizing environmental impact.

Edgehog identified a scalable method of fabricating bio-inspired nanostructures on surfaces for uniform anti-reflectivity across the visible spectrum. By fabricating a nanostructure pattern directly on the native glass or plastic substrate of the display, they can eliminate glare in any environment. Their structural approach to anti-reflection results in uniform, low reflectance across the entire visible spectrum.

Carbonova is a company focused on the development of carbon nanofibers, which have significant market applications due to their unique properties. The company has created a proprietary chemical process that converts carbon dioxide and waste heat from power plants into high-strength carbon fibers. This innovative approach allows industries to utilize greenhouse gas emissions as feedstocks, transforming them into sustainable and valuable solid commodities. By enhancing performance through its technology-based platform, Carbonova aims to contribute to environmental sustainability while providing economic benefits.

Evercloak Inc., founded in 2018 and based in Waterloo, Canada, specializes in the manufacturing of ultra-thin graphene and other two-dimensional nanomaterial films geared towards clean technology applications. The company employs a low-cost advanced manufacturing process that facilitates the continuous coating of single-layer nanomaterials. This innovative platform aims to support disruptive clean technologies across various sectors, including oil and gas, nuclear energy, mining, and agri-food. Evercloak's mission is to enhance energy efficiency in building cooling systems, thereby creating comfortable indoor environments while significantly reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

BioHybrid Solutions is a biotechnology company focused on the development of innovative nanoarmored protein-polymer conjugates. The company specializes in tailoring the activity and stability of proteins and enzymes for various applications, primarily through research and development efforts. Utilizing atom transfer radical polymerization chemistry, BioHybrid Solutions grows polymers with precision from the surface of proteins. This approach enables advancements in therapeutics and protein engineering, providing physicians with effective alternatives in their medical practices. The company's work bridges the fields of proteins and polymers, emphasizing direct product sales alongside its R&D initiatives.

Nomic is a bioengineering company focused on making the human proteome as accessible as the human genome. The company is developing the nELISA, a next-generation platform for measuring proteins at high throughput and scale. Nomic provides scientists with protein profiling solutions, allowing them to determine the scope and scale of their experiments. Their platform features cost-effective measurement of protein data and integrates smoothly with industry-standard cytometers for high-throughput analysis. Additionally, Nomic's technology enables the development of custom protein panels, leveraging nanotechnology to use DNA as a versatile linker to address issues of cross-reactivity in protein measurement.

Nanogrande is a Montreal-based developer of additive manufacturing systems that specializes in high-definition manufacturing. The company has created a groundbreaking nanoscale 3D printer capable of producing particle layers as thin as one nanometre, allowing for the fabrication of ultra-high resolution and precision parts. Its technology supports a diverse range of materials, including metals, polymers, and ceramics, enabling the production of complex objects with intricate details. This innovative approach positions Nanogrande to address key sectors such as metal injection moulding, precision metal casting, and microelectromechanical systems. By bridging nanotechnology and additive manufacturing, the company offers solutions that can significantly reduce production costs, making it a competitive player in the rapidly growing multibillion-dollar market.

NoPo Nanotechnologies focuses on making space exploration more accessible by developing and manufacturing single-walled carbon nanotubes, which are ideal for spacecraft construction. These nanotubes are designed to reduce mass fraction, enabling increased payload capacities and enhancing safety during space missions. The company utilizes its proprietary NoPo HiPCO technology, which processes carbon monoxide under high pressure and temperature, to produce these high-strength, lightweight materials consistently and at scale. Through its innovative approach, NoPo aims to support humanity's aspirations of becoming a space-faring species.

Chinova Bioworks uses a natural and effective antimicrobial chitosan polymer with broad spectrum protection.

Graphite Innovation & Technologies specializes in developing innovative and sustainable smart coating solutions tailored for the shipping industry. The company employs advanced nanotechnology to create environmentally friendly paints that are designed to minimize fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions for ocean-going vessels. GIT provides a comprehensive range of marine coating systems that enhance vessel efficiency while ensuring that its products are devoid of harmful leaching chemicals. The coatings are hydrophobic and exceptionally durable, preventing marine organisms from attaching to hulls and subsequently reducing drag. As a significant player in the global marine coatings market, GIT is committed to driving sustainability within the maritime sector, positioning itself as a disruptor through its focus on innovation and the practical applications of advanced materials, including graphene and nanoplatelets. The company's approach not only supports environmental goals but also offers cost savings for ship operators by improving operational efficiency.

Mekonos Inc. specializes in the design, development, and production of gene and cell therapies, focusing on a proprietary cell-engineering platform that utilizes advanced silicon technology. Founded in 2017 and based in San Francisco, the company has created an integrated system-on-a-chip, which incorporates micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) to enable the precise injection of single cells using nanoneedles in a parallel architecture. This innovative approach aims to industrialize genome editing and enhance drug discovery and development processes. Mekonos' technology allows for scalable and reliable manufacturing of engineered therapies aimed at addressing genetic diseases, including various forms of cancer, and supports healthcare providers in delivering diverse therapeutic molecules across multiple cell types.

NanoQuan Inc., based in Kitchener, Canada, specializes in the development and manufacturing of advanced nanocomposite materials. The company focuses on creating novel materials that exhibit exceptional electrical, mechanical, optical, and thermal properties. Utilizing a unique dispersion-mixing technology, NanoQuan incorporates nano-fillers into various host materials, allowing for tailored solutions that meet the specific requirements of industries such as electronics, automotive, and aerospace. Through its innovative approach, NanoQuan aims to provide high-performance materials at competitive prices, addressing the diverse needs of its clients across multiple sectors.

Interface Fluidics is an international technology company offering innovative reservoir fluid analysis services. Interface Fluidics'​ proprietary and industry-leading nanofluidic technology platform enables companies to better understand their reservoirs and have greater confidence in their production decisions.

H2nanO Inc. is a Canadian company that specializes in the development of advanced wastewater treatment technologies for municipal and industrial applications. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Kitchener, with an additional office in Waterloo, the company focuses on creating innovative nonmaterial and nanotechnology products aimed at enhancing water treatment processes. H2nanO emphasizes sustainable and nature-based solutions that not only improve water quality but also contribute to emissions reduction, particularly in the resources sector.

ICSPI Corp. is a Canadian company based in Waterloo, founded in 2007, that specializes in the design and manufacture of scanning probe instruments utilizing a CMOS-MEMS technology platform. Its flagship product, the nGauge Atomic Force Microscope (AFM), integrates essential components for nanoscale imaging. The company offers a range of tools, including benchtop and redux AFM, as well as specialized products for semiconductor and display applications. ICSPI's innovations aim to miniaturize and simplify the operation of nanoscale metrology instruments, catering to educational, research, and industrial sectors.