How did a hyperspectral rock analyser startup based in British Columbia, Canada become involved in Core Sprint? Michelle’s past in Adelaide made her want to reconnect with businesses, entrepreneurs and geologists in Australia. With a background in academics, they’ve been on a huge journey. Learn more about Hyperspectral Intelligence In below.
How did your startup/business journey begin?
I co-founded Hyperspectral Intelligence with my husband in 2016, and we convinced two more people to join the company in 2017. We are “recovering academics” who are very dedicated to the scientific process, but we also wanted to be self employed. In the last four years, we have been working very hard to learn the skills required to run a business and to commercialize the products and services we have developed.
What are you working on at the moment?
At Hyperspectral Intelligence, we believe that mining can have a net-positive effect on society and the environment. The way we ensure that mines are operating efficiently and sustainably is by making products that identify ore and waste rock accurately, in a simple, user-friendly manner. Our geoLOGr hyperspectral rock analyzer automates the time-consuming and subjective task of drill core logging, saving time and money, while also helping to protect the environment. With this, we have also developed a cloud-based engine that processes hyperspectral data for a full range of applications, including mining, medical imaging, and pharmaceuticals.
What are you most looking forward to as part of CORE Sprint?
Our company is mainly based in Canada, but my husband and I lived in Adelaide from 2006-2009, and I am looking forward to reconnecting with Australian geologists who are working in the mineral exploration and mining industry.
Can you share with us one of your favourite success stories from your business journey so far?
My favorite story is when we sold our first geoLOGr. A major mining company was testing many different types of analytical tools with the goal of finding a solution to a particular problem, and the geoLOGr was one of the tools they tested. Three months later, this company bought a geoLOGr. They had it for two months before they ordered a second one. We will always be grateful for their support and their belief in our skills and abilities.
How have you adapted post COVID-19?
Not much has changed, except that there are more companies looking to automate the task of drill core logging because it is now more difficult to move people to/from a mine site. We are now doing all deployment and training remotely, and the geoLOGr has always followed physical distancing rules. The geoLOGr was made for an operational crisis such as a pandemic.
What is one interesting thing about you? (A hobby, something you love, something curious that no one would expect!)
In my spare time, I write science fiction, and I am currently searching for a literary agent for my first novel.
Are you interested in learning more about Michelle and Hyperspectral Intelligence Inc? We have our Virtual Pitch Night on November 10th. All welcome, register here