Ostia Sciences accelerates growth with new $12 million expansion in Ontario

The expansion has the potential to create 28 high skilled jobs and accelerate the development of microbiome based therapeutics, building on Ontario’s established leadership in life sciences and biomanufacturing.

TORONTO, Ontario, April 20, 2026 – Ostia Sciences Inc., a Toronto based biotechnology company plans to invest $12 million over the next three years to expand its research and development (R&D) capacity and scale its microbiome-based innovations in Ontario. The expansion includes $5 million in R&D investment and has the potential to create 28 high-skilled jobs as the company advances a new class of therapies derived from beneficial microbes that support immune function, combat infectious diseases and improve overall health.

The project strengthens Ostia Sciences’ ability to accelerate development of its proprietary discovery platform, which identifies bacteria with drug like properties and produces novel antimicrobial molecules known as bacteriocins. This technology addresses a critical global challenge: the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance and the need for new, targeted therapeutics that go beyond traditional antibiotics.

Ostia Sciences’ decision to expand in Ontario reflects confidence in the province’s life sciences and biomanufacturing ecosystem and follows hands on support from Invest Ontario, which played a pivotal role in helping the company navigate funding pathways, cut through red tape and connect with the government programs needed to support its growth in the province.

Driven by world-class STEM talent and a strong research and development ecosystem, Ontario's life sciences sector is an integral part of the provincial economy. As global demand for innovative medicines and technologies continues to grow, we are proud to see Ostia Sciences expand their Toronto operations and wish them continued success as they advance a new class of Ontario-made therapies.

Hon. Vic Fedeli

Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade

Ostia Sciences’ decision to expand in Ontario shows the strength of the Province’s life sciences and biomanufacturing ecosystem. Invest Ontario helped the company navigate funding options, connect with key partners, and access the talent and supports needed to grow here. We are delighted with Ostia Sciences decision and stand ready to help as it continues to grow in Ontario.

Khawar Nasim

Invest Ontario CEO

Ostia Sciences was built by Canadians, for the world. From our roots at the University of Toronto to our growing team of young scientists — including women breaking barriers in STEM — we are proof that Canada can build globally competitive, innovation-driven biotechnology companies that create high-value jobs while advancing human health. We are grateful to Invest Ontario for its support, and we remain committed to our partners, investors, and every young scientist who dares to believe that the next great medical breakthrough can come from here.

Abdelahhad Barbour

Ostia Sciences CEO

For more information about Invest Ontario, please visit www.investontario.ca.