Key Takeaways:
- Solynta has completed a major growth funding round, with EW Group acquiring a majority stake.
- The investment will support the global scaling of hybrid true potato seed technology.
- Solynta aims to double global potato yields while reducing crop protection use and land requirements.
- The funding will accelerate breeding speed, variety development, and commercial adoption.
- The transaction strengthens Solynta’s position in addressing food security and sustainability challenges.
Solynta Strengthens Capital Base Through Strategic Investment
Solynta, a company specializing in hybrid potato breeding, announced a significant growth funding round that includes the acquisition of a majority stake by EW Group, a Germany-based holding company active in breeding and genetics. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
The investment is intended to accelerate Solynta’s growth roadmap and support the continued development and global deployment of its hybrid potato breeding platform. According to the company, the funding will help advance its objective of increasing potato yields while reducing inputs and land use.
Scaling Hybrid True Potato Seed Technology
Solynta’s technology is centered on the development of hybrid potatoes grown from true potato seeds rather than traditional seed tubers. This approach is designed to improve breeding efficiency, reduce disease risks, and simplify storage and transport compared with conventional tuber-based systems.
The company stated that proceeds from the funding round will be used to increase breeding speed, expand the range of potato varieties under development, and scale commercial adoption of hybrid true potato seeds globally.
“We are thrilled to have the significant support of one of the leading investors in the breeding sector,” said Peter Poortinga, Chief Executive Officer of Solynta. He noted that the company’s technology is intended to address sustainability and productivity challenges faced by potato growers worldwide.
Addressing Global Food Security and Sustainability
Potatoes are the world’s third-largest food crop and play a central role in global food security. However, traditional potato breeding is typically slow, and reliance on seed tubers introduces logistical and phytosanitary challenges. Climate variability has further increased the need for resilient and efficient potato varieties.
Hein Kruyt, Co-Founder and Chief Financial Officer of Solynta, said the company was founded to play a transformative role in agricultural technology. He emphasized that continued innovation across the potato value chain is critical to improving resilience and sustainability in global food systems.
EW Group Expands Commitment to Advanced Breeding Technologies With Solynta
With the acquisition of a majority stake, EW Group deepens its involvement in advanced breeding technologies within the agricultural sector. The partnership is expected to support Solynta’s efforts to transition potato production toward more efficient seed systems and broader global adoption.
Solynta indicated that the investment positions the company to continue expanding its operations and to contribute to long-term goals of improved productivity, reduced input use, and enhanced food security in potato-growing regions worldwide.
