What is entrepreneurship all about?
The startup is called Levid and is Uruguay’s first eco-cosmetics brand. It involves using grape pomace—a byproduct discarded during the winemaking process—which contains numerous properties that offer skin benefits, such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and regenerative effects, among others. Together with my partner, Betiana Otaiza—who is a chemical engineer—we extract grape polyphenols from this “waste” and use them as our raw material.
How did the idea come about?
The idea of combining grapes with cosmetics actually stems from a desire to harness the fruit’s benefits. Most of the polyphenols in grapes are found in the seeds and skin—which are typically discarded—so we sought a way to make use of them by creating a sustainable and effective project.
On a more personal note, combining cosmetics with grapes is a way for me to blend my family tradition with my passion—biotechnology and science—and, within those fields, cosmetics. I was born into the world of wine; I come from a family of winemakers, and the truth is that I see Levid as an opportunity to carry on the family tradition while leaving my own mark and doing what I love.
What are the characteristics of this type of cosmetic product?
This type of natural, grape-based cosmetic offers a host of benefits. One that I think is particularly worth highlighting is sustainability. As grape pomace decomposes, it produces greenhouse gases; so not only are we making use of a raw material that is discarded on a massive scale in this country, but we’re also helping to prevent that pollution.
On the other hand, a crucial quality that I’ve already mentioned is the antioxidant effect of these polyphenols, which, according to scientific studies, is even greater than that of antioxidants found in today’s cosmetic products. We also strive for transparency in every stage of the production process and share information backed by references through our Instagram and website, so that customers can be fully aware of what they’re consuming and make informed choices.
What is it like to start a business in the biotechnology sector in Uruguay?
I can say that our experience has been very positive. We’ve received support from ANDE, the National Development Agency, and we’ve also found that people in our country are beginning to place greater value on science and domestic industry, so we’ve received a lot of support.
What did your degree provide that helped you start your own business and create this skincare line?
The Biotechnology Engineering program at Universidad ORT Uruguay gave Universidad ORT Uruguay the essential tools for much of the research behind the startup and the product formulations. The truth is that right from the start of the program, you’re involved in research projects where you have to go out and read articles, and search and search for the most relevant ones. Before, I had a hard time finding the information I wanted and making sure it was accurate; now it’s much easier for me thanks to practice and the various tools they provided us.
On the other hand, I feel that ORT plants that little seed of entrepreneurship in us, the students, right from the start. In every subject they teach us, there’s always a focus on real-world applications and biobusiness, and when it comes time to present those projects, you have to sell them to your professor as the most innovative and brilliant idea out there. They really encourage us to bring our ideas to life.