As the demand for safer and more sustainable farming continues to grow, scientists and industry leaders are working together to find better ways to protect crops, support farmers and care for the environment. A new partnership between North-West University and Blum Biologicals aims to do exactly that.
The two organisations officially formalised a strategic collaboration through the signing of a Framework Agreement on 15 May 2025, marking the beginning of a partnership focused on developing innovative biological solutions for agriculture. By combining NWU’s strong research expertise with Blum Biologicals’ industry knowledge and commercial experience, the partnership aims to translate scientific research into practical solutions that help farmers produce food more sustainably and environmentally friendly ways.
The initial focus area under the collaboration will be the development of an endophytic biofertiliser programme, identified as a promising opportunity with the potential to contribute meaningfully to more sustainable agricultural practices. Additional projects identified under the partnership are expected to follow thereafter as the collaboration progresses.
Blum Biologicals, a sister company of Enviro Bio-Chem, specialises in biological crop protection and plant health solutions. The company uses microbial biotechnology, insect biology and data-driven research to reduce the use of conventional chemicals while improving crop productivity and resilience.
As part of the agreement, NWU will contribute its expertise in environmental microbiology and agricultural biotechnology, while Blum Biologicals will lead the development, regulatory and commercialisation processes.
Welcoming guests on behalf of NWU management, Prof. Roelien Goede, Acting deputy dean: Research and Innovation and Community Engagement in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, said the partnership represents an important step towards building a more sustainable agricultural future.
“Pesticides are widely used and are increasingly becoming a concern. We are pleased to formalise this partnership and work together towards more sustainable agricultural solutions,” she said.
Prof. Rasheed Adeleke, Professor of Microbiology at the NWU, provided an overview of the collaboration and highlighted the research areas where the partnership could make a meaningful contribution.
Dr Janine Chantson, chief director of Technology Transfer and Innovation Support (TTIS) at NWU, said the partnership shows the value of bringing research and industry together to address real challenges facing agriculture today.
“We are excited that these two organisations have come together with a shared commitment to solving some of the challenges facing agriculture today. As NWU, we contribute knowledge creation and research expertise, while Blum Biologicals brings practical industry insight and market understanding,” she said.
She added that the collaboration will also create valuable opportunities for students to gain practical exposure and industry experience.
“This partnership reflects a shared commitment to innovation, collaboration and creating impact through research that responds to real community and industry needs,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of Blum Biologicals, Stephen Ford said the company is optimistic about the future of the partnership and the difference it could make within the agricultural sector.
“We are pleased to formalise this partnership with North-West University. The quality of the scientific work and the collaborative approach from the NWU team have been exceptional,” he said.
Ford added that agriculture needs more sustainable alternatives that can support both people and the environment.
“We cannot continue relying heavily on synthetic pesticides in food systems. Partnerships like this help us develop biological solutions that are both sustainable and effective. We are excited to work with one of the country’s leading universities to drive innovation that can make a real difference in agriculture.”
NWU and Blum Biologicals representatives celebrate the formalisation of a new partnership that will advance research, innovation and the development of sustainable agricultural solutions.
