Get ready to meet PathoScan, the innovative Saskatchewan start-up that’s turning the AgTech world upside down! This company is tackling the expensive and time-consuming process of pathogen detection for farmers everywhere, even those in the most remote areas. Thanks to their portable and affordable Pathobox, farmers can now test any crop for pathogens and get results in just an hour—no more waiting 2-3 days for lab results!

Launched in March 2023, PathoScan is already in the field trial stage with a working prototype. And they couldn’t have done it without the ElevateIP program. The program has been crucial for PathoScan, allowing them to independently hold their IP and avoid potentially unfavourable terms with other third-party programs. Tayab Soomro, Co-Founder and CEO, praises the program’s community oriented approach and support, saying it’s been pivotable for their growth.

“To be competitive, intellectual property is crucial for any business to create a protective moat around their operations, allowing them to compete effectively in the market. For us, protecting our IP was equally important. However, when we saw the costs associated with legal fees, we were stunned about how we would afford it. That’s why Elevate IP was a natural choice to support us.”

So, what’s next for PathoScan? They’ve teamed up with Picketa Systems on the East Coast to test their devices in the Atlantic provinces and are hunting for more testing partners across Canada. Stay tuned, because PathoScan is just getting started!

With the assistance of ElevateIP, PathoScan has not only received financial support but also top-notch guidance for their IP strategy. They’ve already created a provisional patent and are on their way to securing a full patent, giving them a huge boost in credibility and competitive edge.

To learn more about the ElevateIP program and how it can provide financial support of up to $100,000 to develop and implement your IP strategy, visit northforge.ca/elevateip 

*North Forge is an ElevateIP Recipient, a national program of Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada, leading in intellectual property support for startups in Saskatchewan and Manitoba.