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TIES Entrepreneur Spotlight: Iranian Immigrant Brings Science-Driven Nutrition to Canada

December 11, 2025

News

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Family was the main driver for Maryam Ghobadi Dana’s move to Canada in 2024.

“I’m here for my family. I have two sons. Both are living and going to university in Canada.”

Driving the Iranian immigrant and scientist a year later? A passion for science-driven nutrition and better health.

“My goal is to develop an organic, biologically active form of folic acid that is distinct from what is currently available on the market.” Ghobadi Dana said.

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Bridging Biotechnology and Nutrition

Ghobadi Dana, an experienced laboratory microbiologist, has always dreamed of starting her own business.

Something, she said, was not possible back in Iran.

“I want to build my own business, and Canada provides the environment that makes this goal achievable.”

“In my home country, achieving this goal is not feasible,” she pointed out. “In Iran, extensive economic limitations make it very difficult.”

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Ghobadi Dana launched Bio-Monitoring Corporation in Edmonton last year.

Its mission is to bridge biotechnology and nutrition though microbial innovation: harnessing beneficial bacteria to develop bio-based solutions that support human health.

She’s producing natural, science-based alternatives to synthetic supplements — and is putting them in baked goods!

“I hold a food processing/catering Service licence in Edmonton, and I produce cookies and pastries that I call Bio-Cookie and Pro-Pastry.”

“I used my probiotic strain that can produce folic acid and incorporated it into the dough of this pastry. This makes it a super healthy product,” she explained.

Healthy, and a hit. Not only has she been selling these goods to the Iranian community, but the Canadian community at large.

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Turning to TIES for Help

It's a start, but the scientist wants to go further.

Ghobadi Dana turned to TIES (The Immigrant Education Society) and its Integrated Women’s Entrepreneurship Project (IWEP) for help.

“It has a strong impact on me, motivating me to continue, to expand, and to keep growing.”

Not only did IWEP help with her business plan, but it also boosted her confidence.

“They made me feel included in Canada, as if the country were saying, ‘Welcome—build your business and contribute to the economy.’ It is a very warm and meaningful feeling for me’.”