Our Story, Our Brand
Discover how Scotia Kelp Products turns nutrient-rich North Atlantic kelp into sustainable choices for people, plants, and pets. Born from a 30+ year journey of healing and environmental stewardship.
A Shift in Perspective
While Scotia Kelp Products (SKP) was built on a journey of physical healing, recent times have brought a different, more personal challenge for our founder, Darron Hill. Darron has been navigating a difficult battle with his sight, undergoing numerous surgeries in an attempt to preserve his vision. Despite these medical efforts, he has begun to experience significant vision loss, a reality that reshapes how one interacts with the world, every single day.
We often speak of "vision" in business as a look toward the future, but Darron’s experience has forced a focus on the present. It is easy to take for granted the simple clarity of a Nova Scotian sunrise or the ability to read a label without struggle. When a sense as vital as sight begins to fade, it serves as a profound reminder of our vulnerability; and the immense resilience required to keep moving forward.
This struggle has deeply impacted the heart of Scotia Kelp. It has intensified our passion to help others facing similar health ailments; a core value we see reflected in the storm-tossed kelp that thrives despite the crashing Atlantic waves. Darron’s journey is a testament to the fact that while our physical sight may change, our internal vision and purpose can remain clearer than ever. It is a reminder to cherish the moments of clarity we have and to support one another through the seasons of shadow.
🌊 From Personal Healing to a Global Mission: The Scotia Kelp Story
The story behind Darron Hill’s Scotia Kelp Products began long before he harvested his first blade of kelp. Growing up in Nova Scotia, Darron suffered from severe psoriasis and other skin conditions that often impacted his ability to have a normal life. Unable to attend school regularly or participate in sports, he was often confined indoors.
At age 16, his condition reached a critical point, leading to an 18-day hospitalization where he was encased in a full body, medicated, non-drying body cast to grow new skin. This profound personal experience deeply connected him to the struggles of others facing severe health challenges. Coming from a large family, Darron has always been driven to support people looking for relief, ultimately fueling a lifelong passion for helping others, particularly those coping with environmental ailments.
After graduating high school, Darron entered the workforce, spending seven years running a cleaning service and over a decade as a professional plumber—skills that would eventually provide the technical backbone for his future operations.
The First Wave (Scotia Seagrowth)
The spark that ignited Darron’s passion for his career in the kelp industry occurred in 1993 at the inaugural Black Business Initiative (BBI) Summit in Halifax. There he met Kenneth Sabean, a retired fisherman and entrepreneur. Under Sabean’s mentorship, Darron mastered the complex art of extracting and concentrating derivatives from Laminaria digitata (Kelp)
Together, they launched Scotia Seagrowth in 1993. As pioneers in Nova Scotia’s kelp sector, they managed the entire product lifecycle, from cold-water harvesting to direct supply for farmers, golf courses, and retailers. During this era, Darron made a pivotal discovery: the more he worked with and used kelp, the more his own chronic skin health improved. Seeing this as a natural treatment for his sensitivities. Darron made it his mission to help others suffering from underlying conditions by introducing them to kelp products. However, despite strong market interest, the company closed in 2007 due to the lack of a support ecosystem for niche natural products at that time.
The Interim and Rebirth
For nearly ten years after the closure of his first venture, Darron returned to his trade as a plumber while continuing to supply kelp products on a part-time basis. The mission to share the benefits of kelp remained. In 2015, he officially registered Scotia Kelp Products, beginning a multi-year transition balancing his trade work with part-time business development. This period was essential for laying a more stable, strategic foundation than his previous venture.
The Strategic Growth Era
In 2019, Darron committed to Scotia Kelp full-time. This era has been defined by systematic professionalization and community engagement. The company secured essential harvesting permits, refined its proprietary formulas, and launched a professional e-commerce platform. The brand has also increased its community presence through contributions such as seasonal pop-ups, participation in business and government functions and outreach with Canadian health retreats.
Additionally, through research collaborations with government agencies, Scotia Kelp has received recognition from numerous organizations and government entities for its work and involvement in the kelp industry—all of which continued to support Scotia Kelp’s growth and longevity.
Since founding the company, the brand has expanded to not only include personal care products, but also products for plant and pet care as well. With sustainability being a core belief in Scotia Kelp’s mandate and practices, we take pride in using natural, sustainable resources to help heal and protect our environment.
Scotia Kelp prioritizes environmental stewardship by hand-harvesting storm-tossed kelp to protect natural habitats and minimize their ecological footprint. This commitment to sustainability extends to the regional economy, where the company sources all bottling, packaging, and labeling services from local suppliers to strengthen the community. Additionally, the brand utilizes eco-friendly packaging and zero-waste manufacturing to provide healthy, responsible choices, as opposed to chemical-laden products.
Giving to Gain: Eastern College
Throughout its development, Scotia Kelp Products has built strong relationships with many reputable partners. At the forefront is the connection between SKP and Eastern College. For Scotia Kelp Products, the relationship with Eastern College goes far beyond a traditional academic partnership, it’s a collaboration rooted in shared values, mutual growth, and community impact.
Through the college’s internship program, Scotia Kelp has welcomed numerous motivated interns into our organization. These students bring fresh perspectives, up-to-date technical knowledge, and creative energy that contribute meaningfully to our ongoing development. In return, Scotia Kelp provides a supportive, real-world environment where students can apply their skills, build confidence, and gain practical experience that prepares them for their careers.
This exchange creates a powerful feedback loop: students gain confidence and real world experience, while the company benefits and learns from the interns skills and abilities to help shape the next generation of professionals. It’s a relationship that exemplifies how education and industry can work together to strengthen both individual career paths and the broader small business ecosystem.
We are incredibly grateful for the role Eastern College has played in our story; quite simply, Scotia Kelp Products would not be where it is today without their unwavering support. Their commitment to fostering high-caliber talent has made them a cornerstone of our growth, providing the vital human element that drives our mission forward. We view the college not just as an educational institution, but as a primary architect of our future and a key partner in our professional family.
Click Here to visit Eastern College’s website
Meet Our Interns
Scotia Kelp is currently interning two digital marketing students from Eastern College. These individuals provide insight and knowledge that help SKP on a day-to-day basis.
Connor Broussard
A dedicated digital marketing student at Eastern College, currently honing his skills as an intern with Scotia Kelp Products. Driven by a passion for helping others, Connor focuses on creating meaningful connections between brands and their communities. By working in the North Atlantic kelp industry, he combines technical marketing expertise with a commitment to sustainable, life-enhancing solutions.
Brandon Miles
A digital marketing student at Eastern College completing an internship with Scotia Kelp Products. Brandon is developing skills in social media management, content creation, and client acquisition. He is focused on turning his knowledge into real-world impact, helping businesses expand their online presence and generate consistent growth. Motivated and forward-thinking, Brandon is actively working to establish himself as a reliable, results-driven marketing professional.
Bridging Nature, Community & Tourism to Nova Scotia
Scotia Kelp Products is thrilled to announce that we will be working with E-Outdoors as well as Tourism Nova Scotia and Halifax Partnership to help increase tourism along the Eastern Shore and Nova Scotia as a whole. Together, we look to showcase the beauty, culture, and natural experiences that make our maritime province truly unique.
Based in Rocky Mountain House, Alberta, E-Outdoors specializes in electric bikes and outdoor mobility solutions designed to help people experience nature in a more accessible, sustainable, and environmentally conscious way. Their commitment to eco-friendly transportation aligns closely with Scotia Kelp’s values of protecting and appreciating the natural beauty of our coastal communities. As more travelers seek authentic outdoor experiences, electric biking offers an exciting way to explore Nova Scotia’s scenic coastlines, beaches, and trails while reducing environmental impact.
With our founder Darron Hill serving as an ambassador for E-Outdoors in Nova Scotia, his business expertise and local connections will help integrate E-Outdoors electric bikes directly into Nova Scotia's premier tourism destinations. By partnering with local operators and tourism hotspots across the province, this venture aims to offer visitors and locals alike a zero-emission, accessible way to explore our stunning coastlines and historic trails. It’s a perfect alignment of Darron's passion for green innovation and community growth, paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future for Nova Scotian tourism.
Tourism Nova Scotia and Halifax Partnership continue to support initiatives that encourage environmentally responsible travel, outdoor recreation, and the exploration of lesser-known destinations across the province. Their sustainable tourism strategy focuses on protecting natural environments, supporting local communities, and promoting authentic Nova Scotian experiences for visitors. Alongside E-Outdoors and Scotia Kelp, they will be working to make these tourism efforts a reality.
Join Us for Kelp Curious: Kelp Fest 2026! - June 9th and 10th
Mark your calendars, because we are absolutely thrilled to be highlighting Kelp Curious: Kelp Fest, taking place at Saint Mary’s University on June 9th and 10th. This exciting two-day event is dedicated to celebrating the incredible, sustainable potential of North Atlantic kelp and exploring how this remarkable resource is shaping a greener future right here in Nova Scotia.
Whether you are looking to revitalize your backyard soil, find natural wellness solutions for your furry friends, or discover the health benefits of kelp for personal care, Kelp Fest has something for everyone. The event will feature a fantastic lineup of engaging speakers, showcases of local innovation, and exhibition booths showing off kelp-based products, resources and support organizations for the sector!
As passionate advocates for our beautiful coastlines, the Scotia Kelp team couldn't be more excited to support this initiative. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded community members, learn from local eco-conscious leaders, and find practical ways to bring the benefits of kelp into your daily routine. Come satisfy your curiosity and discover why kelp is truly the superfood of the future!
👉 Click here to sign up and learn more!
The Road Ahead
Operating out of Lower Sackville, Scotia Kelp is working to expand its operations. The company’s mission is twofold: to provide waste-free, environmentally responsible products for people, plants, and pets, while pursuing growth opportunities across multiple industries and navigating a thriving Maritime kelp sector through strategic partnerships.
Driven by the inspiration of his grown daughter, the support of his partner, as well as a supportive network and team, Darron Hill has turned a personal health struggle into a global mission; proving that with the right timing and partnerships, past lessons can become future successes. In these changing and uncertain times, Scotia Kelp is actively seeking additional support to grow. We invite partners, customers, and advocates to join us on this journey.
Why Choose Scotia Kelp
Pure Transparency: Our formulas are 100% free from synthetic additives, ensuring you know exactly what nourishes your skin, your pets, and your plants.
Ethically Sourced: We hand-harvest our kelp sustainably to protect the delicate North Atlantic ecosystem.
The Gold Standard of Nutrition: Sourced from world-renowned Nova Scotian waters, our kelp extract delivers 65+ essential bioavailable vitamins, minerals and trace elements for peak vitality.
Eco-First Mandate: We operate with a deep-rooted commitment to environmental stewardship in every step.
Rooted in Nova Scotia: Rooted in Nova Scotia, we are proudly local and independently owned, going the extra mile to support our community and economy.
Mastery in Every Drop: With 30 years of expertise, we’ve perfected the art of harvesting and processing kelp to maximize its natural potency.
Ready to experience the restorative power of the North Atlantic? Shop the Kelp Care Collection today and explore what the ocean has to offer.