Olga’s fascination with ecology began in her undergraduate years, where she studied plant biology. Her research took her from seaweed ecosystems to bumblebee populations in Ottawa, unraveling the intricate ways climate and human development affect biodiversity. But her biggest realization came when she saw a troubling disconnect between scientific research and real-world policy implementation.
“You don’t have to be a scientist to care about air quality and its effects,” Olga explains. “I realized there was a lack of accessible data that could help policymakers and the public make informed decisions.”
The birth of EcoSafeSense
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Olga found solace in Ottawa’s urban parks, a reminder of how vital green spaces are for public health. This period of reflection solidified her goal: to use technology to monitor and improve air quality in cities. But turning an idea into a business required a leap of faith — and the right support.
Enter the University of Ottawa’s Entrepreneurship Hub (eHub). “I was surrounded by academics, not entrepreneurs,” Olga recalls. “The eHub changed everything. They provided resources, mentorship, and a network of like-minded people who made starting a business feel possible.”
Through programs like the Graduate Entrepreneurship Experience, she refined her business model, learned about funding opportunities, and even won an award for sustainable business innovation — a pivotal confidence boost.
Making an impact with data
EcoSafeSense’s technology revolves around real-time air quality sensors that track pollutants like ozone, nitrogen dioxide and CO2. Unlike traditional monitoring stations, which provide limited city-wide data, her sensors offer hyper-localized insights that can highlight pollution hotspots and assist in urban planning.
“Cities need this data to create healthier environments,” Olga explains. “From tracking wildfire smoke to ensuring bike lanes actually provide clean air, our sensors help decision-makers act with precision.”
EcoSafeSense has already partnered with municipalities and research institutions. In Durham, Ontario, the company outfitted ambulances with air quality sensors to study pollution levels across the city. Another deployment is helping a municipality showcase its environmental efforts by proving the effectiveness of its green initiatives.
Lessons learned and looking to the future
Despite the progress, Olga acknowledges the challenges of being a scientist-turned-entrepreneur. “Networking as a scientist is different from networking as a business owner,” she laughs. “But having mentors — especially women entrepreneurs — has been invaluable.”
Only 17% of small businesses in Canada are owned by women, a statistic that didn’t fully resonate with Olga until she sought out mentors who shared her perspective. “Finding someone who looks like you, who understands your background, makes a huge difference,” she advises.
With EcoSafeSense gaining traction, Olga envisions a future in which real-time air quality data shapes smarter, greener cities. “We already invest so much in clean tech — why not use data to ensure urban planning actually improves public health?” she says.
Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs? “Find a community. Be open to pivoting. Focus on the problem you’re solving, not just your initial idea. And don’t be afraid to take the leap.”
Olga Koppel’s journey proves that science and entrepreneurship are not mutually exclusive — they are powerful allies in the fight for a cleaner, healthier world.
