W’Ice
For many growers, spring frost is a constant threat: a single freezing night can wipe out an entire harvest. The European Commission recognises frost as one of the main causes of economic losses in the fruit-growing sector, a problem that runs counter to the United Nations’ goal of improving food security. Despite rising average temperatures, the risk of frost damage is increasing as a result of climate change.
Today, farmers still rely on protection methods that are often cumbersome, costly, polluting and relatively ineffective, such as heaters, gas burners or sprinkler systems. W’Ice is developing an innovative alternative: a sprayable biological biostimulant with an anti-frost effect that protects flowers and young vine shoots from frost damage, without excessive water consumption or negative environmental impact. Growers can easily apply it using their existing spraying equipment.
W’Ice was founded by Laure Craeye and Cedric Vander Cruyssen. Laure holds a Master’s degree in Industrial Sciences - Biochemistry and a Master’s degree in General Management from Vlerick, and gained start-up experience at PHIOME. As CEO, she is responsible for fundraising, financial planning, market research and day-to-day operations. Cedric, a bioscience engineer specialising in chemistry and bioprocess technology, brings more than five years of experience at the Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant. As CTO, he is responsible for product and process development.
