Media & press
Media & Press Resources
EL-I Tech is a biological engine that fixes nitrogen independently of the plant. A 0.1 lb application replaces up to 220 lbs of synthetic fertilizer. Validated across nearly 600,000 acres.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Untreated (left) vs Treated (right) · GPS-Verified
Press Releases
The most recent EL-I Tech announcements. Most recent releases first.
Nitrogen Fixation at Scale — US & Canadian trials start for biggest global agri breakthrough in 70 years
EL-I Tech™ is the biggest global agricultural breakthrough in 70 years — a biological engine that delivers nitrogen to crops with zero energy drain on the plant, replacing up to 220 lbs of conventional fertilizer per acre with 0.1 lb of EL-I Tech™ and significantly improving biomass and yield, with US and Canadian trials starting now.
Press Kit & Fact Sheet
One PDF download with condensed info on the science, core breakthrough, results & impact, integration & compatibility, why it matters now, digital ecosystem, technology & team and where to find more. One easy ZIP file download with team, product and crop images, as well as company logos.
Headquarters: Building 7, Unit 5, Riversands Outlet Park, 72 Riversands Boulevard, Fourways, Gauteng 2118, South Africa.
What we make: A patented two-organism biological that fixes atmospheric nitrogen independently of the plant. Compatible with liquid, granular, prill-coating, seed-coating and organic-enrichment formulations.
How we validate: Open-published field trials across maize, soya, wheat, sunflower and canola in South Africa, the United States and Canada. Independent agronomists verify yield, nitrogen contribution and gross margin per trial. Methodology is reproducible — see /claims.
Press contact: altus@el-i.tech
Team & Spokespeople
Choose the spokesperson that fits the angle you're writing. Each card includes an interview email and a high-resolution headshot download once available.
Gerhard Vermaak
Inventor & Founder
Gerhard Vermaak has spent most of the past decade advancing the practical application of microorganisms across waste management, hygiene, bioremediation, and agriculture. His developments include full ranges of bioremediation products, cleaning solutions, and biological soil remedies. His technologies are widely used across Southern Africa and are now entering global markets.
Paul Vermaak
Operational Director
Paul Vermaak, Operational Director at EL-I Tech, oversees production, quality control, and product shipping. His expertise in scaling organisations brings significant value to the company. With strong energy, dedication, and a focus on continuous improvement, he plays an essential role in driving excellence and supporting the team's growth and success.
Isolde Viljoen
Lead Scientist
Isolde Viljoen began her career in animal genetics and production, spanning dairy and beef cattle, sheep, and the broiler breeder industry, before her focus shifted progressively smaller, ultimately landing on the microorganisms that underpin soil and plant health. As Custom Chemistry's lead scientist, she applies this rare cross-scale biological perspective to developing science-backed agricultural solutions for the industry we all depend on.
Altus Venables
Communications & Media
Altus Venables is a senior communications specialist with over two decades of experience shaping narratives, managing reputations, and delivering high-impact media visibility across South Africa's most competitive sectors. He combines strategic insight with sharp editorial instinct to translate complex technical value into clear, compelling brand communication. His career spans national and international media liaison, executive positioning, content development, and end-to-end PR management, supported by a background in corporate communications, psychology, and marketing.
Image Library
Web-optimised previews below; print-ready originals download separately. Captions and credits travel with each file. All assets cleared for editorial use.
Field trials
Product
Logo Pack
Six variants in SVG (source), transparent PNG and white-background JPG. Bundled ZIP also includes a brand-guidelines one-pager covering clear-space rules, minimum size and the full colour palette.
Primary (light)
Standard usage on light backgrounds.
SVG · PNG (included in bundled ZIP)
Primary (dark)
For dark-mode designs and dark photography.
SVG · PNG (included in bundled ZIP)
Monochrome black
Black-and-white print, single-colour reproduction.
SVG · PNG (included in bundled ZIP)
Monochrome white
White-on-dark for poster or hero overlays.
SVG · PNG (included in bundled ZIP)
Mark only
Square avatars, social profile marks.
SVG · PNG (included in bundled ZIP)
Wordmark only
Inline placement next to body copy.
SVG · PNG (included in bundled ZIP)
Press Contact
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