Disruptive Innovation
2025 AWARD COMMENDATION
NE Tech’s patented technology reimagines how natural oils are harvested, slashing emissions and costs. Traditional oil extraction involves a lot of energy-intensive steps. Drying and milling alone waste up to 50% of the usable input.
NE Tech reimagined the entire process, completely eliminating drying and milling. Using four proprietary technologies developed at the University of Canterbury, the company extracts oils at room temperature without heat or harsh chemicals.
The results speak for themselves. NE Tech delivers up to 90% more yield while using 86% less energy and producing 35% lower emissions compared to traditional methods.
The final product is a powder-form oil that is shelf-stable for over three years and offers five times the absorption of conventional oils.
NE Tech can process diverse inputs, from mussels and algae to cannabis and food waste. This transforms waste into high-margin products while supporting circular economy goals. The company already has a $37.5 million sales pipeline.
The judges said: "NE Tech’s patented extraction technology is transforming the natural wellness industry in the way natural oils are harvested using room temperature extraction that removes two steps in the traditional process. Its process achieves significantly higher yields and bioavailability from marine and plant-based oils using significantly less energy and reducing waste".