SFU VentureLabs and Manterra Technologies Inc. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, marking a new collaboration to help expand access to local manufacturing for BC startups.

Through this partnership, VentureLabs companies will gain access to Manterra’s nearly 40 years of manufacturing expertise, helping companies move toward scaled production. 

For many founders, moving from a working prototype to a manufacturable product is one of the most difficult stages of growth. As VentureLabs’ Manufacturing and Commercialization Partner, Manterra gives founders access to a certified manufacturer with decades of experience in highly regulated industries, right here in Metro Vancouver. 

Working with a local manufacturing partner allows for:

• more direct production engineering collaboration, 
• faster communication, 
• and greater visibility throughout the production process.

“By bridging the gap between VentureLabs companies and local manufacturers like Manterra, we are keeping BC’s leading deeptech and science startups local, so they can move faster, scale smarter, and keep production closer to home,” said Lesley Esford, Executive Director at VentureLabs.

Manterra Technologies operates a 52,000-square-foot facility in Metro Vancouver, providing expertise in precision plastic molding and advanced 3D-printing technology. Access to these localized resources will help startups accelerate their production timelines while building a sustainable foundation within the province. 

The company holds internationally recognized certifications for medical, automotive, and general quality standards, and is FDA registered, positioning it to support startups in medical, automotive, and industrial sectors. 

They’re PIA (Production Innovation Accelerator) program focuses on:

• Shortening mold design cost and turn-around
• Short run strategies for validation of design-for-manufacturing (DFM) decisions and design adjustments
• New materials research support including bio-resin validation
• Utilizing process automation design tools to de-risk and reduce the cost of streamlining production

The collaboration brings together VentureLabs’ commercialization guidance, market-entry planning, strategic partnerships, and capital readiness support with Manterra’s manufacturing expertise and production capabilities.

“Manterra has always believed in building things locally. Working with VentureLabs lets us put our certifications and our facility to work for the next generation of BC companies,” said Roy Trivett, CEO of Manterra Technologies.

The partnership reflects a broader commitment to strengthening BC’s innovation ecosystem. By connecting startups with domestic manufacturing expertise, VentureLabs and Manterra aim to help companies build stronger supply chains, keep production closer to home, give founders a competitive edge over offshore alternatives, and support local jobs.

Learn more about Manterra’s Precision Plastic Injection Molding at https://www.manterra.com/