Scale Industrial Biotech Without Leaving Canada.
AscendBio is the only scale up facility in Canada offering true pilot-scale bioprocessing – from 1,000 L to 100,000 L – combined with technical and investment expertise, non-dilutive government funding, and full IP retention.
We help industrial biotech companies scale faster, spend less, and stay in control of their innovations.
Why AscendBio
Companies that join AscendBio gain tailored support to hit technical and commercial milestones, raise capital, connect with investors and partners, and access critical infrastructure that would otherwise take years and significant investment to build.
What sets AscendBio apart:
- Pilot infrastructure under your control: Fermentation, downstream processing, extraction, and labs — all in one place, without leaving Canada.
- Scale faster, spend less: Our facilities, expertise, and funding reduce capital requirements and preserve your equity.
- Capital & connections: Non-dilutive funds, investor introductions, and access to corporate and feedstock partners.
- Stay agile and retain IP: Rolling intake, no dilution, full intellectual property retention.
Who We Work With
AscendBio is designed for:
- Industrial biotech founders (pre-seed through Series A) in precision fermentation, biomaterials, biochemicals, and sustainable ingredients.
- Research and Technology Organizations with scale-up-ready IP.
- Global accelerators and university incubators seeking Canadian pilot-scale options.
- Early-stage investors, VCs, and innovation scouts looking for capital-efficient scale-up pathways for portfolio companies.
Our Track Record
Since launch, more than 40 companies have scaled with AscendBio, collectively raising over $100 million and developing innovative technologies positioned to change the world.
Ready to scale? If your company is ready to take the leap from lab to pilot scale, AscendBio can get you there.
AscendBio partners
The Verschuren Centre
The Verschuren Centre for Sustainability in Energy and the Environment is facilitating the transition to a green and circular economy by supporting innovative clean technology commercialization. The centre has established teams of expertise in key areas to assist companies advance IP and accelerate uptake in manufacturing and primary production industries. Areas of specialty include industrial and agritech bioprocessing, carbon and polymer materials, thermal energy transitioning and storage, and climate mitigation in aquaculture.
Invest Nova Scotia
Invest Nova Scotia helps early-stage deep technology start-ups succeed in the global marketplace, supporting them through venture capital, incubation facilities, and by providing expert advice and acceleration initiatives.