Mara Renewables

About Mara Renewables

Mara Renewables is a Canadian biotechnology company specializing in the research, development, and commercialization of sustainable, algae-based nutritional products. Founded in 2012 by John Risley, the co-founder of Clearwater Seafoods, the company was established to address the growing global demand for omega-3 fatty acids with a fish-free, environmentally friendly alternative. Risley envisioned transforming a science project into a business with significant potential by harnessing the power of marine plant life without depleting ocean resources.

Headquartered in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, with a global presence that includes the UK, Mara Renewables utilizes a patented precision fermentation process. This technology allows the company to cultivate specific strains of microalgae—the original source of DHA in the marine food chain—in controlled environments. By going directly to the source, Mara produces high-quality, contaminant-free omega-3 DHA oil, thereby alleviating pressure on wild fish stocks, which are the traditional source of this essential nutrient. In 2024 alone, the company's production offset the need for an estimated 6.7 billion anchovies.

The company's business model is centered on supplying these algal oils as ingredients to a diverse client base across various industries. Its primary markets are infant nutrition, dietary supplements, food and beverage, and animal health and nutrition. Mara offers its products in multiple formats, including crude and refined oils, concentrates, powders, and soft gels, catering to companies like Nestlé, Maruha Nichiro, and Ritual. A notable application is the enrichment of poultry feed, as seen with UK retailer Marks and Spencer.

Mara has secured significant funding to fuel its growth and expansion. In 2022, the company raised $39.5 million in a growth equity round from investors including InvestEco Capital, BDC Capital, and Thai Union. This was followed by a $9.1 million investment from S2G Investments in 2025 to scale its platform and R&D capabilities. These financial milestones support Mara's mission to commercialize its technology on a global scale, with established presences in Europe, Asia, and Latin America.