PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND, CANADA — Natural Products Canada (NPC) announced its investment of $1.7 million into seven early-stage companies. Among the selected companies is ALT-PRO Advantage, a pet food manufacturer leveraging alternative proteins, which received an investment of $75,000. Specifically supporting Canadian companies, the investments are intended to aid the companies in addressing key challenges in their go-to-market journey.

“NPC’s contribution to these companies is an investment in a stronger Canada,” said Shelley King, chief executive officer of Natural Products Canada. “The work we do to develop and de-risk these opportunities ensures Canada can meet the demand for innovative, bio-based solutions that address global challenges such as climate change, food security and chronic health issues.”

Based in Toronto, ALT-PRO Advantage specializes in hypoallergenic, plant-friendly dog foods and treats leveraging alternative proteins such as insect protein. The company’s proprietary microalgae ingredient is a natural, sustainable source of essential nutrients, reducing reliance on synthetic additives while enhancing pet health and environmental sustainability, according to NPC. 

The investment is intended to support ALT-PRO’s personnel needs as part of NPC’s “Access to Talent” program. With a total project budget of $188,600, the investment will allow the company to hire new, experienced personnel. 

Late last year, ALT-PRO was one of four companies to receive an investment from Protein Industries Canada and Innovate UK to help advance the commercialization of plant-based ingredients in Canada and the United Kingdom. 

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