Key Takeaways:
- Puna Bio closes Series A round with new participation from the Gates Foundation—its first investment in an Argentine startup
- Funding will expand the development and distribution of microbial-based bioinputs for smallholder farmers
- Biofertilizers and biostimulants use extremophile bacteria to enhance crop yields under stress conditions
- Partnership will focus on adapting solutions to local agricultural contexts in Africa
- Existing backers include Corteva Catalyst, At One Ventures, SP Ventures, and others
Puna Bio Closes Investment Round to Accelerate Global Agricultural Access
Puna Bio has formally closed its Series A funding round, announcing the participation of the Gates Foundation, a new strategic partner focused on advancing sustainable food systems. The foundation’s investment marks its first direct investment in an Argentine startup, supporting innovation that addresses climate resilience and food security for smallholder farmers.
The round, which was initially led by Corteva Catalyst, also includes support from a coalition of climate- and ag-tech-focused firms such as At One Ventures, SP Ventures, Dalus Capital, Glocal LATAM, Builders VC, and Grid Exponential.
Scaling Biofertilizer Solutions Through Strategic Collaboration
Puna Bio develops biofertilizers and biostimulants derived from extremophile bacteria, organisms adapted to thrive in harsh environmental conditions. These microbial-based products are designed to support crop productivity in drought-prone and nutrient-deficient soils, providing a biological alternative to synthetic fertilizers.
With the latest funding, Puna Bio will scale its production and extend its reach into developing regions, particularly in Africa, where affordability and access to effective agricultural inputs remain a key challenge.
“This partnership is deeply aligned with our mission of ensuring food security at a global scale,” said Franco Martínez Levis, CEO and co-founder of Puna Bio. “By expanding our efforts to Africa, we aim to scale our impact, improve lives, and contribute to the long-term sustainability of global agriculture.”
Puna Bio & Gates Foundation: Localized Innovation and Co-Development Efforts
As part of the collaboration, Puna Bio and the Gates Foundation will co-develop tailored solutions suited to regional climates, soils, and farming practices, helping ensure their microbial inputs are accessible and effective for smallholder farmers in underserved markets.
Testing and implementation efforts will focus on identifying locally adapted bacterial strains and delivery methods, with the aim of reducing input costs and improving crop resilience.
