From marine biology student to inventor: BGSU alumna turns passion for sustainability into purpose-driven business

Cori Byrge ’19 utilizes BGSU Hatch program to create eco-friendly aquaponic technologies and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards

By Branden Ferguson

Alumna Cori Byrge '19 initially chose to attend Bowling Green State University for its strong biology program, but she never expected to dabble in the business world and launch a career as an inventor and entrepreneur.

While immersed in marine science, Byrge decided to step outside her comfort zone by joining The Hatch, the University's Shark Tank-style entrepreneurship competition that turns student ideas into real products and businesses.

As part of Hatch, Byrge presented her product, HappiFilter, which is an aquaponic aquarium filter that helps home aquarists reduce waste without frequent water changes. The filter transforms aquarium waste into nutrients for houseplants, which naturally remove harmful compounds through plant growth.

Byrge is now the founder and CEO of AGP Substrates LLC, a company developing sustainable, plant-based technologies that enhance the efficiency and eco-friendliness of aquaponics. In addition to HappiFilter, which was patented earlier this year, AGP Substrates optimized and commercialized Iron Gel, a natural product that helps farmers grow healthy crops without synthetic additives. The gel itself was created and patented by BGSU scientists.

"I never would have been able to do this without The Hatch and the support I received from BGSU," Byrge said. "The Hatch gave me a platform, protected my idea before I presented it and has continued to support me after graduation."

While Byrge now holds the titles of inventor and entrepreneur, she initially planned for a career in forensics. With a biology degree and support from BGSU, she was able to blaze her own path to entrepreneurship.

Initially drawn to forensic biology, Byrge soon developed an interest in environmental biology and conservation. Fortunately, BGSU's top-tier marine and aquatic biology program offered the perfect opportunity to explore those interests. The University's marine biology lab – home to more than 3,000 gallons of water and nearly 70 genera of marine life, including coral, starfish, sharks and stingrays – provided unmatched hands-on experience for an inland school.

"I took advantage of every opportunity BGSU offered, and that led me to an internship at the Curaçao Sea Aquarium," said Byrge. "There, I saw real coral reefs for the first time and got to care for aquarium animals while studying reef ecology. It was an amazing and defining experience that helped me earn a leadership position in the Marine Biology Lab later on."

"Developing my pitch was a real challenge because my idea was so unconventional and there were not many examples to follow," said Byrge. "I had to learn a lot of new material in a short time. It was one of the most rewarding learning experiences I have ever had."

Although Byrge didn't receive funding from the Hatch investors, she did receive a $25,000 grant from Bon Secours Mercy Health Innovation – launching a business career she never anticipated.

Since then, Byrge has driven across the country to meet aquaponic farmers, attended national conferences and joined the Board of Directors for the Aquaponics Association. Her goal: to grow her business, expand her product's reach and continue advancing sustainable food systems.

"Everything I do ties back to protecting coastal ecosystems and promoting sustainability," Byrge said. "I'm grateful every day to be on this path."

Looking ahead, Byrge hopes to bring the HappiFilter into Ohio classrooms to provide students with hands-on experiences in aquaponics, sustainability and environmental stewardship.

"My goal is to inspire the next generation to think critically about food systems and how they can make a difference," Byrge said.