Meet Sabina from Nimble
Q: Can you introduce yourself and your startup, Nimble Science?
A: I’m Sabina Bruehlmann, CEO and co-founder of Nimble Science. We’re a startup based in Calgary, Canada, pioneering in the field of microbiome research. Our main product is one of the first devices designed to sample the small intestinal microbiome, an area often overlooked in microbiome studies.
Most research and investments in the microbiome field are focused on the fecal microbiome, which only provides a partial view of gut health. The small intestinal microbiome, on the other hand, plays a crucial role in our overall health and is often referred to as the ‘forgotten organism.’ Our goal at Nimble Science is to unlock this ‘black box’ of the microbiome, offering insights into how the small intestinal microbiome functions and interacts with our health.
The microbiome field is burgeoning, seen as a key to controlling our health. It’s not just about bacteria; there’s an interplay of fungi, viruses, and other elements in our gut. While fecal microbiome transplants have shown promise, they are a rudimentary solution compared to the potential of understanding and manipulating the small intestinal microbiome. Our mission at Nimble is to facilitate access to this critical area for research, thus propelling the entire field forward.
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Q: What inspired the creation of Nimble Science?
A: The inception of Nimble Science stemmed from a combination of personal and professional motivations. My co-founder, inspired by his father, a GI doctor, was deeply frustrated by the clinical limitations in accessing and understanding the microbiome. His father’s experiences in the medical field highlighted the significant gaps in our ability to effectively study the microbiome.
My own background in medical device commercialization played a significant role as well. It seemed almost unbelievable to me that so much effort and resources were being invested in microbiome research, yet there was such a fundamental hurdle: the actual collection of microbiome samples. This gap in the research process struck me as both a significant challenge and an opportunity.
The idea that billions are being spent on microbiome research without the ability to directly access the microbiome seemed ludicrous. This realization sparked a strong drive in me to contribute to this field. Our goal at Nimble Science is not just to advance our endeavors, but to empower and enhance the research capabilities of others in this space. It’s about facilitating larger, more impactful studies in microbiome research, providing tools that can transform how this field operates.
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Why Plug and Play?
Q: Why did Nimble Science decide to join Plug and Play?
A: Our decision to join Plug and Play was largely influenced by its presence in Alberta, Canada where Nimble Science is based. Initially, we didn’t have a deep understanding of the accelerator, but its proximity and the opportunities it presented were too significant to ignore. Joining Plug and Play proved to be a game-changer, enhancing our company’s growth and expanding our network significantly.
Q: What benefits did Nimble Science gain from Plug and Play?
A: The benefits we experienced with Plug and Play were manifold. Firstly, it provided a global platform for us, attracting interest from corporate partners worldwide, from South Korea and Japan to Europe and Silicon Valley. This international exposure was crucial in scaling our operations and gaining visibility. Secondly, the approach of Plug and Play is unique in its corporate-driven focus. Rather than simply pitching our product, we were able to align our efforts with the needs and interests of corporate partners, making our participation more targeted and effective.
The Funding at Plug and Play
Q: Can you elaborate on the funding aspect within Plug and Play?
A: Regarding funding, Plug and Play does invest in companies, and certain jurisdictions, like Alberta, offer support for cohorts to attend various summits and events. However, there isn’t specific funding attached to the program itself. The real value lies in the program’s connections and opportunities, rather than direct financial investment. These connections often lead to potential funding and investment opportunities indirectly, which can be incredibly valuable for startups like ours.
Challenges and Growth in the Plug and Play Accelerator
Q: What challenges did Nimble Science face during the Plug and Play program?
A: In the Plug and Play program, unlike other accelerators, the challenges were more about alignment than survival. The initial challenge for us was the mismatch with corporate partners in our first cohort. They were seeking solutions that were more consumer or patient-ready, whereas we were still in the early stages of development. This lack of fit meant we couldn’t leverage the full potential of the program initially. However, in subsequent cohorts, we found a better alignment with companies looking for what we offered. So, the primary challenge was ensuring that our offerings resonated with the needs of the corporate partners in each cohort.
Q: Can you describe Nimble Science’s status and achievements post-accelerator?
A: At Nimble Science, we don’t see ourselves as a post-accelerator in the traditional sense. With Plug and Play, you remain part of their network indefinitely. We’re continually receiving interest from various global corporate partners, which is a direct result of our Plug and Play involvement. This ongoing engagement means we’re constantly deriving value from being part of their community.
Since our initial participation, we’ve successfully raised a seed round of a few million dollars, which has put us in a strong financial position. We’ve also established several proof-of-concept studies with different corporate partners we met through Plug and Play and received some investment from a few. This tangible acceleration has been crucial for our growth.
Professional Networking and Mentorship in Plug and Play
Q: How has Plug and Play influenced your professional network and connections?
A: Plug and Play has significantly expanded our professional network, especially within larger corporations. Managing these relationships is a vital but intensive task, requiring us to keep track of various stages and types of conversations. Although we’ve connected with several mentors, the most significant impact has been establishing a robust network of individuals in large corporations. These contacts, whether they led to proof-of-concept studies or not, have been invaluable in advancing our company’s objectives. This network has helped us understand and meet our next milestones, especially in the context of corporate needs and interests.
Q: Did Plug and Play facilitate interactions with venture capital firms or angel investors?
A: Yes, Plug and Play has been instrumental in connecting us with the investment community. For instance, at a recent summit, I had the opportunity to interact with a diverse group of investors and venture firms. These events put us in a setting where we can easily connect with potential investors. Our presence in Plug and Play, validated by corporate interest, provides a level of pre-vetting that eases conversations with investors. They see us pitch on stage, and observe corporate reactions, and this dynamic provides investors with a clearer understanding of our potential and positioning in the B2B space.
Founder’s Advice
Q: Do you have any advice for startups applying to Plug and Play or other accelerators?
A: My primary piece of advice for startups considering Plug and Play, or any global accelerator, is to think globally and strategically about their participation. Unlike traditional incubators, Plug and Play is a global network, and its real value lies in its corporate partnerships.
When choosing an accelerator, focus on the corporate partners involved rather than the geographical proximity of the program. Assess if these partners align with your startup’s vision and objectives. If you find a good fit, don’t hesitate to put yourself in front of them, even if it means joining a cohort that’s not the closest to you geographically.
Moreover, the journey with an accelerator like Plug and Play doesn’t have to be a one-time endeavor. You can engage with different cohorts around the world, wherever you find relevant corporate partners. Each interaction and cohort can offer distinct opportunities and insights, so be open to participating multiple times.
This approach differs significantly from traditional incubators, where the focus is often on going through the program, ticking off a checklist, and learning what’s available. With global accelerators, it’s more about leveraging their extensive network and aligning with corporate partners that can propel your venture forward. Each cohort brings a unique set of opportunities, and it’s vital to approach them with a global mindset and a focus on building meaningful corporate relationships.