The Forbes article “Startup uses genetically engineered algae to create pigments, protein, and more” reports that Spira (SOSV RebelBio 03) co-founder and CEO Elliot Roth won the TCS Pitch for Purpose competition for using the algae spirulina—sourced from small farms via fair-trade practices—to make carbon-negative dyes. More than 200 entrepreneurs from across the U.S. participated in the competition, which featured startups leveraging technology to address social issues.

Spira pays algae farmers a living wage and helps them improve operations. Spira turns their algae into carbon-negative pigments to approximately 1,000 food and cosmetics companies.