European Circular Bioeconomy Fund

Biosyntia ApS is a biotechnology company based in Hørsholm, Denmark, founded in 2012. The company specializes in developing biocatalysts for the fermentation of complex chemical compounds, such as flavors, fragrances, active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), pigments, and additives. Utilizing its innovative, patent-pending high-throughput screening technology, Biosyntia accelerates the development of these biocatalysts, aiming to enhance efficiency and reduce production costs. By focusing on biocatalysis, the company offers a more sustainable alternative to traditional chemical synthesis, significantly lowering environmental impacts. Biosyntia collaborates with manufacturers to create tailored fermentation processes that promote greener manufacturing practices in the fine chemicals industry.

In Ovo B.V., founded in 2011 and based in Leiden, the Netherlands, specializes in developing biotechnological solutions for the poultry industry, focusing on the gender sorting of chicken eggs. The company's innovative technology employs biomarkers to determine the gender of eggs early in the breeding process, addressing the longstanding issue of culling one-day-old male chickens. This method not only alleviates the stress associated with manual gender sorting but also enhances the efficiency of hatcheries by reducing energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. By eliminating the need to kill male chicks, In Ovo promotes a more humane and sustainable approach within the poultry sector, ultimately benefiting both animal welfare and operational efficiency.

Protix B.V. is a Netherlands-based company that specializes in the production of functional insect proteins and lipids for animal feed, particularly for cattle, fish, and pets. Established in 2009 and headquartered in Dongen, with an additional production facility in Bergen op Zoom, Protix converts organic residual streams, such as food scraps from meat, fish, and dairy, into high-quality protein meals and insect fats. These products serve as sustainable alternatives to traditional fishmeal and are designed to enhance feed solutions while promoting a more balanced food system. Through its innovative approach, Protix aims to provide clients with eco-friendly and organic nutrients that contribute to the transition toward sustainable agriculture.

Elicit Plant is an agro-biotech company focused on enhancing the water resistance of crops and developing innovative phytosterol-based solutions. The company aims to facilitate the ecological transition in agriculture by addressing global challenges posed by climate change, particularly its impact on major crops. Elicit Plant utilizes proprietary technology that leverages phytosterols to improve plant stress resistance and activate natural defenses. Extensive field trials conducted across three continents have shown that these biosolutions are a viable option for farmers, offering consistent and significant returns on investment.

Nuritas, Ltd. is a biotechnology company based in Dublin, Ireland, that specializes in the discovery of bioactive peptides from food sources. Established in 2012, the company employs a unique approach that integrates artificial intelligence and genomics to rapidly identify and unlock natural peptides with health benefits. By focusing on nutritional bioinformatics, Nuritas combines computational biology with nutritional science to mine therapeutic peptides, enabling the development of functional food, beverages, dietary supplements, and cosmetics. Its innovative technology not only discovers new bioactive ingredients but also collaborates with food and ingredient companies to co-develop sustainable products. Through its work, Nuritas aims to enhance human and animal health while promoting a more sustainable food system.

Aphea.Bio NV/SA, founded in 2017 and headquartered in Gent, Belgium, specializes in the manufacture of biopesticides and biostimulants aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture. The company focuses on developing next-generation biopesticides derived from natural microorganisms, providing alternatives to traditional chemical pesticides, which face increasing regulatory scrutiny. Additionally, Aphea.Bio creates innovative biostimulants that enhance crop growth by improving nutrient uptake from the soil. Its products are designed to increase crop yields and protect against specific fungal diseases, contributing to more sustainable farming practices.