Challenge
We were asked to support the commercialisation of a microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology, specifically developed to improve sanitation in markets that lack adequate sanitation.
Supporting microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology commercialisation
Approach
We worked closely with inventors, university administration and research funders to develop a business model to satisfy all stakeholders' requirements. We also developed an intellectual property (IP) strategy, market research, investor due diligence, and identified numerous potential licensees/customers to develop the value-chain needed to bring the technology to market. Upon identifying and engaing multiple service providers; including a patent firm, product design company, law firm, and branding agency, we put together a plan to protect the IP, develop blueprints for the first product, incorporate a spinout company and develop the brand identity.
Impact
We created a social enterprise company, Robial, dedicated to improving sanitation in developing economies and continue to manage Robial's activities and are working with various commercial partners to introduce the MFC technology into multiple product lines.
