Big Idea Ventures, an investor in the food technology industry, has announced the launch of its New Protein Fund II (NPF II) to support and accelerate the growth of innovative companies focusing on alternative ingredients and impactful food. Building on the success of its initial fund, NPF II has attracted investments from notable partners, including AAK and Bühler, along with other investors.
Big Idea Ventures has been at the forefront of driving advancements in the alternative protein sector and has quickly become one of the most active investors in food tech. Founder Andrew D. Ive emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs, scientists, and engineers that work towards solving the world’s biggest challenges through innovative solutions.
The previous fund, NPF I, has already made significant investments in the alternative protein category. Notable companies in its portfolio include Gourmey, a French startup that secured an impressive €48 million in Series A funding, and Black Sheep Foods, which obtained $12.3 million in Series A funding. These success stories demonstrate the potential of alternative proteins and their growing popularity among consumers.
NPF II will continue to invest in early-stage startups worldwide, both through its accelerator program and direct investments. The Big Idea Ventures accelerator program, conducted in Paris, Singapore, and New York, offers a five-month intensive program designed to help companies overcome obstacles and effectively scale their startups. Participants benefit from guidance from internal and external experts and corporate investors with a wide network of mentors.
Ive expressed his delight at the diverse range of portfolio companies that Big Idea Ventures has supported thus far. From plant-based meats to sustainably cultivated oysters, as well as innovative seaweed and mycelium-based products, the company has witnessed the remarkable growth and development of exceptional product lines. With NPF II, the company aims to further accelerate the industry by investing in technologies such as molecular farming, precision fermentation, AI-enabled software and hardware, and more.
Big Idea Ventures now manages over $100 million in assets under management. The company’s strong network of strategic partners, including AAK, Avril, Bühler, Givaudan, Temasek Holdings, and Tyson Ventures, reinforces its commitment to driving food innovation and sustainability.
Image provided by Big Idea Ventures
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