ONE MOLECULE.
MILLIONS SAVED.
Dr. David Dolphin's discovery of Verteporfin, commercialized as Visudyne, reversed blindness for patients worldwide and established photodynamic therapy as a medical discipline. Now, Verteporfin shows promise against fibrosis, a condition responsible for nearly half of all human deaths. The David Dolphin Foundation for Innovation & Bioindustry (DD-FIB) exists to ensure discoveries like this reach the world.
Mission & Vision
We envision a future where Canadian porphyrin science leads global innovation in human health and advanced materials. By building a sustainable ecosystem of ventures and research, we will transform scientific leadership into enduring economic and social legacy.
Refine scientific breakthroughs
We seek out Canada's leading transformative chemical scientific breakthroughs that need a champion to reach their potential.
Strategically fund ventures
We accomplish our mission by strategically funding porphyrin chemistry and advanced materials ventures poised for success.
Leverage mentorship & networks
We leverage our extensive networks to mentor and advise ventures, transforming patient lives worldwide.
The Founder
"My creation of Verteporfin saved the vision of millions worldwide... Verteporfin has recently been found to inhibit fibrosis — the possible future of which could be monumental."
Advisory Board
Pieter Cullis
Advisory Board MemberPioneer of lipid nanoparticle technology enabling mRNA COVID-19 vaccines and multiple FDA-approved medicines.
Andrew D. Hamilton
Advisory Board MemberFormer President of NYU and Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University. Distinguished leader in chemical science.
Roald Hoffmann
Nobel Laureate / AdvisorNobel Laureate in Chemistry (1981) recognized for pioneering theories on electronic structures of transition metal complexes.
Jean-Marie Lehn
Nobel Laureate / AdvisorNobel Laureate in Chemistry (1987) and father of supramolecular chemistry. Expert in molecular self-organization.
Richard J. Roberts
Nobel Laureate / AdvisorNobel Laureate in Medicine (1993) credited with discovering split genes and RNA splicing, redefining molecular biology.
Richard B. Silverman
Advisory Board MemberCreator of Lyrica and distinguished medicinal chemist. His research has revolutionized drug synthesis and global clinical care.
How We Work
Identify the
Legacy
We seek out Canadian transformative discoveries that need a champion to reach their potential.
Mentor and
Advise
Our network of world-class scientists provides rigorous mentorship for commercial pathways.
Invest
Strategically
We provide seed capital and strategic resources to de-risk innovations for global markets.
Transition to
Patients
Ensuring lab discoveries become monumental treatments for patients worldwide.
Focus Areas
We concentrate resources on three frontier sciences where Canada holds a distinct competitive advantage.
01
Quantum Chemistry
Quantum Chemistry
Computational breakthroughs and precision molecular modeling for the next generation of computing. Leveraging quantum mechanics to predict molecular behavior with unprecedented precision.
02
Advanced Materials
Advanced Materials
The development of novel materials with bespoke properties for industrial and medical applications. From high-performance porphyrin derivatives to smart polymers responding to stimuli.
03
Bioindustrial Science
Bioindustrial Science
Advancing the chemical and biological technologies that underpin a sustainable bio-economy. Bridging the gap between molecular research and scalable industrial bioprocesses.
Science
to Industry
Our core value proposition in Human Health and Advanced Materials ventures.
Industrial Scale-Up
Ensuring every supported porphyrin project reaches Manufacturing-Readiness for industrial-scale production.
Job Creation
Fostering high-value chemical engineering and manufacturing jobs within Canada's innovation ecosystem.
Global Visibility
Highlighting Canadian breakthroughs to our global network of investors, advisors, and corporate partners.
Get in Touch
Have questions about our work or a media inquiry? Connect with us to join our journey in strengthening Canada’s scientific future.
