Mara Renewables

Overview

Mara Renewables Corporation is a Canadian biotechnology company specializing in the development and commercialization of sustainable, algae-based nutrition solutions. Founded in 2012, Mara focuses on creating sustainable omega-3 fatty acids derived from algae, providing an alternative to traditional fish oil. Headquartered in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, the company has raised significant funding over the years, including a notable $39.5 million investment round announced in 2022. The founders include John Risley, who played an instrumental role in turning the scientific initiative into a commercial entity.

Recent Developments

  • July 2025: Mara Renewables secured a $9.1 million investment from S2G to expand its production of algae-based omega-3. This aligns with Mara's goal to increase its market presence in sustainable nutrition (AGFunder News, July 2025).
  • May 2022: The company achieved the initial closing of a $39.5 million equity raise to further develop its research and development capacity and commercial products. Lead investors were InvestEco Capital with additional support from BDC Capital, Export Development Canada, and others (PR Newswire, May 2022).
  • Recognition: In 2023, Mara was named among Canada's Sustainability Changemakers for its significant contributions to sustainable development and bio-technology (LinkedIn).
  • Strategic Partnerships: Mara partnered with Checkerspot and Humanativ to develop and market sustainable omega-3 products, reducing reliance on marine ecosystems for fish oil production (NutraIngredients-USA, July 2025).

Company Information

AttributeInformation
Founding Date2012
HeadquartersDartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada
FoundersJohn Risley
Revenue$12.7 million (2025)
Key InvestorsInvestEco Capital, BDC Capital, Export Development Canada
IndustryBiotechnology
Number of Employees66

Early History

Mara Renewables Corporation began as an ambitious scientific project aiming to leverage marine biotechnology to create sustainable nutritional options. With its founding in 2012, the company focused on the extraction of omega-3 fatty acids from microalgae, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fish oil sources. The pioneering work of its founder, John Risley, laid the groundwork for Mara's emphasis on sustainability and innovation. Early challenges included refining algal extraction techniques and scaling production efficiently. Continuous collaboration with scientific communities and strategic partnerships helped establish Mara as a key player in the sustainable biotech industry.

Company Profile and Achievements

Mara Renewables operates by blending cutting-edge biotechnology with sustainable practices. Its primary achievement is the development of omega-3 fatty acids using algae, circumventing the environmental constraints of fish-oil production:

  • Product Offerings: Mara offers omega-3 crude oil, refined oil, concentrates, and supplements tailored for various industry needs.
  • Strategic Growth: The company secured multiple rounds of funding to boost research capabilities and increase market share in the global omega-3 market.
  • Innovative Practices: Implementing cleaner extraction techniques, Mara focuses on reducing environmental impact and maximizing the efficacy of its products.
  • Partnerships: Collaborations with firms like Humanativ Limited allow Mara to expand market reach and product development agility.

Current Operations and Market Position

Mara Renewables is dedicated to advancing sustainable nutritional solutions within the biotechnology sector. The company produces omega-3 oils primarily for nutritional supplements and functional foods. With investments in research and development, Mara continuously innovates to create more effective and less environmentally demanding products. The company's competitive advantages include its deep-rooted expertise in microalgal biotechnology and its strategic alliances that enhance its market position.

Conclusion

Mara Renewables Corporation exemplifies an innovative approach to biotechnology through its algae-based omega-3 production, eschewing traditional fish oil methods. Its investments in technology and partnerships underscore a commitment to sustainability and growth. As it continues to expand its research initiatives, Mara is poised to strengthen its position in the global nutritional market, contributing significantly to sustainable practices and improving public health outcomes.

References

  1. AGFunder News, July 2025
  2. PR Newswire, May 2022
  3. LinkedIn
  4. NutraIngredients-USA, July 2025
  5. PitchBook
  6. ZoomInfo
  7. RocketReach
  8. CB Insights
  9. Dun & Bradstreet
  10. DealRoom