Key Takeaways:
- NuCicer secures $11.5 million in Series A funding led by Rhapsody Venture Partners
- Funding will scale production of high-protein chickpeas and accelerate next-gen breeding
- Chickpeas deliver up to 35% protein—enabling cleaner-label food products without isolates
- Over 2,500 acres planted in 2025, with plans to 10x acreage in 2026
- New funding supports expansion across North America, Europe, and strategic supply chains
NuCicer Closes $11.5M Series A to Expand Chickpea-Based Ingredient Platform
Meeting Demand for Clean-Label, Nutrient-Dense Food
NuCicer, a company focused on chickpea breeding and sustainable food ingredients, has closed an $11.5 million Series A funding round. The investment was led by Rhapsody Venture Partners, with additional participation from Leaps by Bayer, Illumina Ventures, Better Ventures, Stray Dog Capital, and a major global food company.
CEO Kathryn Cook emphasized that the funding will help NuCicer deliver chickpea-based ingredients that support consumer health, offer grower value, and reduce reliance on highly processed protein isolates.
Chickpeas with Elevated Protein, Reduced Inputs
NuCicer’s chickpea varieties offer up to 35% protein, significantly higher than the 21% baseline of conventional chickpeas, alongside high fiber and lower fat. These traits allow food companies to meet protein and fiber targets with a single ingredient, minimizing the need for additives and isolates.
In the field, the chickpea variety matures up to 20 days earlier than standard crops, reducing the need for chemical desiccants and improving climate resilience. Over 2,500 acres were planted in 2025, with plans to expand to over 25,000 acres next year.
Montana grower Rick Bronec noted the crop’s environmental and business value, citing its ability to improve soil health while meeting market demand.
Ingredient Innovation Backed by Global Brands
NuCicer’s flours and proteins have already been tested in gluten-free pasta, snacks, and enriched staples. The company has proven its formulation potential and flavor performance in collaboration with food manufacturers.
“Yellow pea and soy have led the category until now, but they fall short on taste and texture,” said Carsten Boers of Rhapsody Venture Partners. “Chickpeas are positioned to take over, and NuCicer has the technology to make that happen.”
Rapid Expansion Through Licensing
NuCicer’s business model is built on licensing and strategic supply chain partnerships, enabling scalability without overhauling food production infrastructure. Research trials for next-generation varieties are underway in North America and Europe, with more partnerships to come.
As clean-label trends accelerate, NuCicer plans to play a central role in supplying the next generation of plant-based protein and flour ingredients for global food brands.
