First Bight Ventures

Industrial Microbes designs and builds microbes that produce better chemicals with lower costs and lower carbon emissions. We use greenhouse gases as the raw materials, including biogas, natural gas, and carbon dioxide. We scale our process with global chemical producers.

Algenesis is a material science and technology company based in San Diego, California, founded in 2016. The company focuses on producing renewable and biodegradable polyurethane materials derived from algae and non-food plant oils. Algenesis develops biodegradable foam products, including soft foams suitable for footwear and hard foams designed for surfboards. By partnering with various companies, Algenesis aims to address the global plastic pollution crisis by offering sustainable alternatives to traditional fossil fuel-based plastics. Through its innovative approach, the company contributes to environmental recovery efforts while promoting the use of eco-friendly materials in everyday products.

Visolis is a bioengineering company based in Berkeley, California, that specializes in the development of carbon-negative and sustainable chemicals. Established in 2012, the company employs a systems approach that combines innovations in synthetic biology, chemical catalysis, and process scale-up to create new bio-based manufacturing platforms. Visolis' technology enables the production of chemicals for performance polymers, which can be seamlessly integrated into existing fuels such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel through straightforward and cost-effective chemical transformations. The company's focus on achieving true carbon-negative chemical synthesis positions it as a leader in sustainable chemical manufacturing.

Persephone Biome, Inc. is a San Diego-based company focused on researching and developing products and therapies that modify gut microbial metabolism, particularly in relation to cancer treatment. Established in 2017, the company is creating innovative solutions aimed at enhancing the efficacy of oncology drugs by retuning the gut microbiome. This includes the development of a pill containing beneficial gut bacteria. In addition to its therapeutics, Persephone Biome aims to offer nutritional products that support the human gut microbiome, producing functional foods and beverages that cater to the growing consumer demand for health-oriented products. The company has plans to enter clinical trials to further advance its initiatives in the field of microbiome-directed therapies.