Supported ventures

Blyde Botanics

Blyde Botanics (Pty) Ltd

Brands: Actify, WrinkLess, NatalFresh 

Flagship product: WrinkLess – Advanced anti-ageing active featuring Myrsinoside B 

Founding team: Dr. Isa Lambrechts – PhD in Medicinal Plant Science, Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Missouri

Bianca Payne – PhD Candidate in Medicinal Plant Science

Prof. Namrita Lall – Scientific Advisor 

Application: Cosmetic formulations for acne treatment, anti-ageing, and oral health solutions

Sector/Industry: Household & Personal Products

Subsector: Cosmetic Active Ingredients

Year founded and commenced operations: 2019

Year partnered with TuksNovation: 2021

Email address: info@blydebotanics.com  

Website: blydebotanics.com 

 

Description

Blyde Botanics specializes in scientifically validated plant-based actives for cosmetic formulations, focusing on acne treatment, anti-ageing, and oral health solutions. Leveraging patented technology licensed from the University of Pretoria, the company supplies high-efficacy natural ingredients to cosmetic formulators and brand owners. With a portfolio of innovative bioactive compounds, Blyde Botanics delivers superior results through rigorous research and development, setting new industry benchmarks in performance and sustainability.

Growth Objectives

Blyde Botanics is strategically positioned to scale its operations and expand its market footprint by leveraging its scientifically validated plant-based actives. As the demand for natural and sustainable cosmetic ingredients continues to grow, the company aims to:

  • Expand international market presence through trade shows (NatExpo Paris, In-Cosmetics Summit)
  • Diversify supplier network to ensure a resilient manufacturing pipeline
  • Develop in-house production capabilities for long-term scalability
  • Strengthen licensing agreements for proprietary technology commercialization
  • Secure strategic partnerships for global distribution

Differentiation/Value Proposition

Blyde Botanics sets itself apart through its scientifically validated, patent-backed plant-based actives, offering a natural yet highly effective alternative to synthetic cosmetic ingredients.

  • Scientifically proven efficacy with patent-backed actives
  • Natural plant-based formulations outperforming synthetic alternatives
  • Strong academic research foundation, ensuring credibility and innovation
  • Existing client portfolio demonstrating commercial viability
  • Regulatory compliance with necessary bioprospecting permits

Business Stage/Phase

Blyde Botanics is in the early growth phase, actively scaling its manufacturing and distribution while securing industry certifications and building global market credibility.

  • Early Growth Phase – Scaling manufacturing and distribution
  • Actively acquiring industry certifications and regulatory approvals
  • Building global brand positioning and market credibility

Investment Stage/Phase

Blyde Botanics is in the seed funding phase, actively seeking strategic investors to accelerate commercialization, expand its product line, and establish a strong market presence.

  • Seed Funding Phase – Raising capital to scale operations
  • Seeking strategic investors to accelerate commercialization
  • Focused on market expansion and product line diversification

Investment Raised

Blyde Botanics has raised approximately R1.5 million from the following sources so far:

  • Self-Funded Initial Capital – used for research, development, and operational setup
  • Gauteng Accelerator Program (2019) – grant
  • TuksNovation Seed Funding (2021) – grant
  •  UTF / SA SME Fund (2023) – quasi equity