HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA — Four startups have been selected to participate in the eighth iteration of GreenShoots, a Canada-based incubator supporting early-stage companies in the agri-tech and bioeconomy sectors. Among them is HOPE Pet Food, a Toronto-based pet food and treat company using novel ingredients to deliver plant-based nutrition that meets high standards for environment stewardship and animal welfare.

The GreenShoots program represents a collaboration between Invest Nova Scotia, Bioenterprise Canada Corporation and Greenspring Bioinnovation Hub.

HOPE Pet Food was founded by Sofia Bonilla, Ph.D., in 2019. The company offers insect-based dog treats formulated with black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) protein and other natural ingredients like cranberries, pumpkin, yeast, ashwagandha, chamomile, hemp and algae, among others. The company also offers a limited-ingredient, insect-based diet for dogs that is complete-and-balanced.

All four startups selected for the GreenShoots program will receive $40,000 and access to business guidance to help each entrepreneur strategize future growth.

Read more about the GreenShoots program here.

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