Novonesis is helping lead a new era in ag biological innovation, with deep roots in Western Canada and a legacy that began with the pioneering work of Philom Bios. From its early days in Saskatoon, the company has helped shape the global biologicals industry through science-backed, grower-tested solutions that deliver in the field.
JumpStart® is one of the most important Canadian innovations. Its development is due to research conducted on Penicillium bilaiae and the benefits it provides in the soil. Penicillium bilaiae is a naturally occurring soil fungus that helps make phosphorus more available to crops. Early work by Canadian researchers, licensed from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, laid the groundwork for what would become a game-changing tool for improving early-season nutrition and crop establishment.
Philom Bios, the company that eventually became Novonesis, partnered with universities and growers to develop JumpStart® and bring it to market. That approach — rigorous science, agronomic integration, and large-scale field trials — continues to define the Novonesis process today. It’s a proven model for turning innovation into practical solutions that farmers can trust.
Building on that foundation, Novonesis introduced TagTeam®, a dual-action inoculant that combines phosphorus-solubilizing microbes with nitrogen-fixing rhizobia. Especially effective for pulse crops, it gave Western Canadian growers a new option to maximize the effects of traditional fertilizers applied to their fields. Later, through hundreds of on-farm trials and refinements, Novonesis developed BioniQ®, a biological seed treatment for cereals and canola.
Each product follows a three-pillar development process: scientific understanding of the microbe, agronomic fit in real-world systems, and data gathered through hands-on field testing. That combination ensures Novonesis biologicals work not just in theory, but in practice.
With interest in biologicals growing rapidly, more companies are entering the space, but not always with the same level of research or field results. Novonesis stands apart by focusing on quality over hype. Its team continues to deliver products that are backed by decades of experience, strong data, and field-proven performance.
The company’s partnership with FMC Canada has helped accelerate that work. FMC’s investment in biologicals and support for boots-on-the-ground agronomy have expanded access to Novonesis innovations through trusted retail and grower networks.
Western Canadian farmers have played a major role in developing and advancing these solutions. Their openness to innovation and willingness to test new tools have helped make the region a proving ground for biologicals. That spirit of partnership continues to guide the company’s work.
Looking ahead, Novonesis is exploring new opportunities for biologicals in integrated crop strategies. Products aimed at biocontrol, particularly for crops like chickpeas where resistance to traditional crop protection products is rising, are expected to complement existing tools and fill critical gaps in pest and disease management.
As biological solutions continue to play a larger role in Canadian agriculture, Novonesis and FMC remain committed to science, integrity, and their Canadian roots to move the industry forward.