VITIS Vines
Virus-free grapevines using sustainable tissue culture propagation.
| Date | Investors | Amount | Round |
|---|---|---|---|
* | $40.0k | Grant | |
| Total Funding | 000k | ||
VITIS Vines Inc. is a Canadian company specializing in the propagation of disease-free and climate-resilient grapevines through tissue culture techniques. Founded in 2012 by Thomas Gregoire, a biologist with a background in molecular genetics and plant science, the company emerged from a makeshift basement lab into a notable business in Nova Scotia's Annapolis Valley. Gregoire, holding a B.Sc. in Biology from Acadia University, identified the need to address challenges such as supply issues, diseases, and extreme climate events faced by the local grapevine industry.
The company's core business revolves around providing high-quality, potted grapevines that are rigorously virus-tested. It utilizes sustainable tissue culture propagation methods perfected through extensive research and development. This scientific approach allows VITIS Vines to offer a reliable source of planting material for its clients. The business serves a diverse market, including commercial clients, backyard growers, hobbyists, foodies, and first-time winemakers across Canada. Its product offerings include a variety of cold-hardy hybrid grapes suitable for winemaking, such as L'Acadie Blanc and Vidal Blanc (known for ice wine), as well as seedless table grapes like Thompson Seedless.
The business model is based on the direct sale of these potted vines. Revenue is generated through pre-orders placed via their website or through direct consultation. For large orders of 50 or more vines, the company requests that clients contact them six months to a year in advance to accommodate production cycles. Beyond selling plants, VITIS Vines emphasizes building a community by providing hands-on advice and support to its customers, aiming to make grape growing accessible and rewarding.
Keywords: grapevine propagation, tissue culture, viticulture, disease-free grapevines, cold-hardy grapes, sustainable agriculture, plant science, nursery, vineyard supplies, Annapolis Valley, winemaking, hobby farming, backyard vineyard, agricultural biotechnology, plant propagation, L'Acadie Blanc, Vidal Blanc, Thompson Seedless, horticultural technology, crop science