NSBI Venture Capital is focused on building Nova Scotia’s knowledge-based
industries, including life sciences. Cervelli adds: “NSBI has a well-earned
reputation of providing valuable support to innovative Nova Scotia companies
and we look forward to working with them closely in the future.”
 
“Companies like Origin BioMed are doing great things from here in Nova Scotia,“
said Stephen Lund, president and CEO of Nova Scotia Business Inc. “Our co-
investment with Avrio Ventures and the rest of the team is exactly the type of
partnership NSBI Venture Capital is focused on. It’s all about taking Nova Scotia
businesses to the next level.”
 
Neuragen® targets the $4 billion worldwide neuropathic pain market. About 60 to
70 per cent of people with diabetes have mild to severe forms of nervous system
damage (www.diabetes.org). The results of such damage include impaired
sensation or pain in the feet or hands and other nerve problems. Almost 50 per
cent of people with diabetes aged 40 years or older have impaired sensation in
the feet (i.e., at least one area that lacks feeling). Neuragen® has provided relief
for up to 70% of users in clinical trials, and is being sold in the diabetic sections
of drug stores, through many health profession clinics and other retail outlets. 
 
About Origin BioMed:
Origin BioMed Inc., Halifax, Canada, is an innovative biotechnology company
currently expanding the markets for its exclusive pain relief, diabetic, skin and lip
care products.  
 
About Avrio Ventures:  
Avrio Ventures is a venture capital firm that supports the development of
Canadian commercialization and growth stage industrial bioproducts,
nutraceutical ingredients and food technology companies into world-class
organizations.
  
About Nova Scotia Business Inc.:
Nova Scotia Business Inc. is Nova Scotia's private sector-led business
development agency. NSBI is the investment attraction arm of the province and
helps businesses in Nova Scotia meet growth potential through advisory, export
development and financial services. NSBI Venture Capital is a mid- to late-stage
investor focusing on Nova Scotia businesses in five key sectors: information and
communications technology, defence and aerospace, energy, advanced
manufacturing, and life sciences.