There is a global surplus of seaweed. With its high protein content, this resource presents a valuable opportunity. Our Biotech Booster project, GOA Ventures, addresses this potential.
We recently visited the GOA Ventures office and lab in Ede, which they share with other agrifood start-ups. CEO Theo Verleun launched the project in 2016, and Chief Technical Officer Fleur de Haas joined in 2023. Fleur recalled that when she applied, she learned she and Theo would be building the company from the ground up, to the point of literally building the laboratory itself. Today, the lab is complete, and the team has expanded to seven members across two locations. The facilities have grown from second-hand furniture to two fully equipped labs and modern offices.
Theo selected the name GOA Ventures, which stands for “green ocean applications,” to reflect the mission of using surplus seaweed to produce protein for food and converting the residue into biogas. Their process is unique in that it generates virtually no waste; every part of the seaweed is utilized, with only minimal wastewater remaining. GOA Ventures also pioneered the exclusive use of fresh seaweed, processed within three hours after harvest, to maximize protein yield. Their primary objective is to commercialize the technology rather than the protein itself. Locating the factory near the seaweed source ensures optimal freshness.
Theo values innovation and believes it is important to take a different approach rather than always following the herd. Fleur shares this mindset, noting the challenge of building a company from the ground up. Working in a small team meant taking on responsibilities before she felt prepared “But that’s how you get things done,” she said. After recent team growth, Fleur is learning to share these responsibilities, which has led to greater and faster results.
GOA Ventures ultimately aims to operate a ship that harvests and processes seaweed at sea, using the resulting biogas to power the vessel. This approach will minimize environmental impact and enhance sustainability. If you would like to support GOA Ventures, please contact them at info@goa-ventures.com or visit during Biotech Booster’s Annual Event on March 10. Your support will help advance their research and scale their technology.
