Market segmentation and commercialization opportunities for heme-based products - ON-1127

Project type: Innovation
Desired discipline(s): Business, Social Sciences & Humanities, Economics
Company: Ardra Inc.
Project Length: 6 months to 1 year
Preferred start date: As soon as possible.
Language requirement: English
Location(s): Mississauga, ON, Canada
No. of positions: 1
Desired education level: CollegeMaster'sRecent graduate
Open to applicants registered at an institution outside of Canada: No

About the company: 

Ardra is a Canadian biotechnology company using precision fermentation to develop the next generation of sustainable ingredients. Our mission is to replace rare, high-value, and environmentally costly ingredients with innovative, bio-based alternatives for the food and nutraceutical industries.

We specialize in strain engineering, fermentation, and downstream purification, backed by a growing portfolio of patents and exclusive technology licenses. Our flagship products include animal-free heme, which delivers authentic flavor to plant-based meats and serves as a highly bioavailable plant-based iron supplement. Beyond this, we are developing rare flavor and nutritional ingredients that address global needs in health, sustainability, and food innovation.

At Ardra, we combine cutting-edge science with real-world impact. Operating on a B2B model, we partner with leading ingredient suppliers, consumer goods companies, and flavor houses to bring our innovations to market. With strong customer traction, strategic collaborations, and a clear commercialization roadmap, Ardra is positioned to play a leading role in Canada’s growing bio-manufacturing sector.

Describe the project.: 

This is a strategic project focused on market segmentation and commercialization opportunities for our innovative heme and related ingredients.

Currently, Ardra’s target for animal-free heme are plant-based meats and iron supplement sectors, but we are also exploring additional applications such as, natural colors, dyes, and medical nutrition. To evaluate these opportunities, the project will involve:
• Conducting primary market research and customer discovery interviews
• Tracking competitors and supporting investor discussions with relevant insights
• Mapping potential market segments and identifying technical and regulatory requirements for these segments
• Assessing market size, value chains, customer needs, and competitive landscapes
• Developing pricing strategies, go-to-market approaches, and value propositions for each segment
• Potential participation in trade shows, conferences, and industry events

Final Deliverable:
By the end of the internship, the intern will prepare a market landscape and strategy report that includes:
1. Identification of the most attractive beachhead market(s) for Ardra’s heme-based products
2. Recommended pricing and go-to-market strategies for these markets
3. Business case summaries with supporting data for priority segments
4. A competitive analysis highlighting Ardra’s potential competitive moat

This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience at the intersection of biotechnology, business strategy, and market development. You will work directly with leadership on a project that will guide Ardra’s future product and commercialization strategy, while contributing to the growth of a pioneering Canadian biotechnology company.

Required expertise/skills: 

We are looking for a motivated and curious individual with a strong interest in biotechnology, food innovation, and business strategy. The ideal candidate will have:

• Strong research and analytical skills with the ability to evaluate markets, competitors, and customer needs
• Demonstrated ability to synthesize insights into clear reports and recommendations
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Comfort conducting customer discovery interviews and engaging with external stakeholders
• Ability to work independently and proactively on open-ended projects
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple research streams and deadlines

Preferred qualifications (nice to have):

• Background in business, economics, life sciences, or engineering
• Exposure to market research, strategy consulting, or business development
• Familiarity with the food, nutraceutical, or biotechnology sectors

We welcome applications from students in undergraduate, graduate, or MBA programs who are eager to gain hands-on experience at the intersection of science, business, and innovation.