Early development work begins around watermelon biomass and process exploration.
Weekly Wins
Development Timeline: From Early Project to Patent & NCIC Recognition
The work behind the progress: analytical testing, patent development, programme participation and collaboration milestones.
International PCT application PCT/IB2025/061059 filed for the core technology.
Advanced analytical work at Stellenbosch University supports biochemical fingerprinting of submitted samples.
La Grace Bio (Pty) Ltd is incorporated, giving the developing platform its current company identity.
La Grace Bio confirmed as a Top 5 finalist in the Eastern Cape NCIC Waste-to-Value Challenge.
NCIC Eastern Cape Top 3 — La Grace Bio advanced to the Top 3 of the Eastern Cape NCIC Waste-to-Value Challenge. This recognition reflects the platform's development progress and creates further opportunity to present the bioconversion approach to the regional innovation community.
Top 3 recognition marks progress in an innovation programme. It does not establish commercial readiness or prove an environmental impact claim.
Bioprocess and biotechnology collaboration discussions with UCT CeBER expand the development ecosystem.