Paradigm Labs
Grant in 2024
Paradigm Labs provides water-based chemistry for applications including industrial, specialty manufacturing, and personal care. They are launching biodegradable detergents, water-based coatings, and flame retardants for the textile industry. They develop custom formulations complements and extend a wide selection of economical off-the-shelf products.
Pactum AI, Inc. is a technology company based in Mountain View, California, specializing in artificial intelligence solutions for commercial negotiations. Founded in 2019, the company has developed an AI-driven platform that automates personalized negotiations for global enterprises, enabling them to renegotiate vendor contracts quickly and efficiently. The platform operates through a chat-like interface, utilizing best practice strategies to facilitate win-win agreements on a large scale. By managing multiple parallel negotiations simultaneously, Pactum helps organizations free up resources for more complex discussions while enhancing operational efficiency and reducing errors. The company also has engineering and operations teams based in Estonia and is backed by notable founders from successful tech ventures.
JLE Truckwash
Grant in 2024
JLE Truckwash is a specialized provider of truck washing services, catering primarily to truckload and grocery distribution centers. They offer a range of services including mobile washing, fixed-site truck washing, public truck washes, and FSMA standard washouts. Their services are designed to ensure efficient and compliant cleaning, particularly for food transportation fleets. They respond to customer inquiries via phone and email.
Orderful is a cloud-based Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) platform that serves manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and technology companies. By providing an API, Orderful allows businesses to simplify their EDI operations through a single connection, enabling efficient data exchange with their supply chains. The platform promotes automated communication between retailers and suppliers, facilitating instant relationships while reducing reliance on technical experts. Additionally, Orderful enhances supply chain visibility through analytics, empowering clients to take control of their EDI processes, streamline integrations, and respond more effectively to customer demands. This innovative approach helps businesses decrease costs and improve overall operational efficiency.
SnoFox Sciences specializes in data analytics aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and reducing energy consumption in the cold industrial sector. The company has developed a proprietary platform that leverages thermodynamic data to provide insights for cold chain monitoring and preventative maintenance. This innovative technology transforms complex data feeds into actionable analytics, which can be accessed through a customizable web-based interface. This tool enables decision-making at various levels—from individual units to entire facilities—facilitating targeted improvements that not only optimize energy usage but also mitigate the environmental impact of industrial cooling operations.
Athian is a technology-driven company focused on promoting environmental sustainability within animal agriculture. Based in Indianapolis, Indiana, Athian leverages a cloud-based platform to aggregate, verify, and certify greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions across the livestock value chain, specifically targeting the beef and dairy sectors. The company’s mission is to assist livestock producers in capturing and monetizing carbon credits generated through their sustainability efforts. By providing an industry-specific analytics tool, Athian delivers validated GHG reductions to various stakeholders, including consumer packaged goods companies and food retailers, which facilitates funding for producers' sustainability initiatives. Through its innovative approach, Athian aims to enhance the economic and environmental health of farms and their surrounding communities.
Oxipital AI
Series C in 2022
Soft Robotics Inc., founded in 2012 and based in Bedford, Massachusetts, specializes in designing, manufacturing, and marketing robotic grippers and control systems. These advanced tools enable the manipulation of items with varying sizes, shapes, and weights, making them suitable for diverse applications in packaging, supply chain, and industrial settings. The company's innovative soft robotic technology, protected by over 40 patents, addresses the challenges of automation by offering high adaptability and reducing system complexity and costs. Their grippers are capable of handling a wide range of objects—from food products to consumer goods—without the need for tool or software changes between tasks. This versatility allows for efficient operations in industries such as food and beverage, medical devices, and e-commerce. Soft Robotics' systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing industrial robots and vision systems, providing solutions that enhance productivity and optimize efficiency in high SKU processing and packaging environments. The company aims to unlock the future of automation with its cutting-edge technology that combines speed, precision, and adaptability.
MycoTechnology
Series E in 2022
MycoTechnology is a food technology company based in Aurora, Colorado, that specializes in utilizing fungi-based food-processing platforms to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of agricultural products. Incorporated in 2013, the company addresses challenges in the food, beverage, and flavor industries through innovative solutions. One of its key products, ClearTaste, is an all-natural, GMO-free, organic bitter blocker that is both Kosher and Halal certified, designed to improve the flavor profile of various agricultural offerings. Additionally, MycoTechnology engages in the fermentation of agricultural products using gourmet fungi, producing items such as myceliated chocolate and enhanced coffee beans. The company also develops and licenses technology aimed at naturally improving the flavor characteristics of robusta and arabica coffee, thereby enabling food producers to incorporate healthier ingredients and strengthen brand association.
Believer Meats is a biotechnology company based in Jerusalem, Israel, that specializes in the production of cultured meat through advanced cellular agriculture. Founded in 2018, the company aims to revolutionize global meat production by utilizing distributive manufacturing technology to produce fat and muscle cells without the necessity of raising or harvesting animals. This innovative approach not only enhances food safety but also significantly reduces the ecological impact associated with traditional meat production. By leveraging the expertise of award-winning biologists and bioengineers, along with collaboration from renowned chefs, Believer Meats is committed to making animal-free meat a viable and appealing option for consumers, ultimately providing healthier substitutes for conventional meat products.
Oxipital AI
Series B in 2021
Soft Robotics Inc., founded in 2012 and based in Bedford, Massachusetts, specializes in designing, manufacturing, and marketing robotic grippers and control systems. These advanced tools enable the manipulation of items with varying sizes, shapes, and weights, making them suitable for diverse applications in packaging, supply chain, and industrial settings. The company's innovative soft robotic technology, protected by over 40 patents, addresses the challenges of automation by offering high adaptability and reducing system complexity and costs. Their grippers are capable of handling a wide range of objects—from food products to consumer goods—without the need for tool or software changes between tasks. This versatility allows for efficient operations in industries such as food and beverage, medical devices, and e-commerce. Soft Robotics' systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing industrial robots and vision systems, providing solutions that enhance productivity and optimize efficiency in high SKU processing and packaging environments. The company aims to unlock the future of automation with its cutting-edge technology that combines speed, precision, and adaptability.
Rejoicy
Venture Round in 2021
Rejoicy helps local businesses get discovered by offering digital storefronts and an online marketplace for community members to discover products and services from the comfort of their homes.
Mentore.ai
Venture Round in 2021
Iterate Labs is a developer of a smart wearable device used to track relevant hand and wrist actions for workplace safety. Its device is a smart glove that collects and analyzes biomechanics data to alert workers and managers of injury risk and fatigue that enable health and safety officers to monitor and prevent workplace injuries through sensors and data analytics.
Believer
Convertible Note in 2021
Believer Meats is a biotechnology company based in Jerusalem, Israel, that specializes in the production of cultured meat through advanced cellular agriculture. Founded in 2018, the company aims to revolutionize global meat production by utilizing distributive manufacturing technology to produce fat and muscle cells without the necessity of raising or harvesting animals. This innovative approach not only enhances food safety but also significantly reduces the ecological impact associated with traditional meat production. By leveraging the expertise of award-winning biologists and bioengineers, along with collaboration from renowned chefs, Believer Meats is committed to making animal-free meat a viable and appealing option for consumers, ultimately providing healthier substitutes for conventional meat products.
New Wave Foods
Series A in 2021
New Wave Foods, Inc., established in 2015 and headquartered in San Francisco, specializes in producing and selling plant-based seafood products. The company offers a range of shrimp alternatives, including sautéed, grilled, breaded, and fried options, as well as shrimp tacos and salads. These products are made from sustainably sourced seaweed, soy protein, and natural flavors, providing a sustainable and healthier alternative to traditional seafood. New Wave Foods serves customers in the culinary market across the United States, positioning itself as a leader in sustainable seafood.
MycoTechnology
Series D in 2020
MycoTechnology is a food technology company based in Aurora, Colorado, that specializes in utilizing fungi-based food-processing platforms to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of agricultural products. Incorporated in 2013, the company addresses challenges in the food, beverage, and flavor industries through innovative solutions. One of its key products, ClearTaste, is an all-natural, GMO-free, organic bitter blocker that is both Kosher and Halal certified, designed to improve the flavor profile of various agricultural offerings. Additionally, MycoTechnology engages in the fermentation of agricultural products using gourmet fungi, producing items such as myceliated chocolate and enhanced coffee beans. The company also develops and licenses technology aimed at naturally improving the flavor characteristics of robusta and arabica coffee, thereby enabling food producers to incorporate healthier ingredients and strengthen brand association.
Clear Labs
Venture Round in 2020
Clear Labs, Inc. is a food analytics company based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 2013. The company specializes in providing a comprehensive food analytics platform that utilizes next-generation sequencing and data analytics to enhance food safety and quality control. Its offerings include Clear Dx™ and Clear Safety™, which facilitate the rapid identification of pathogens and support public health initiatives. Clear Labs' platform delivers critical insights into the molecular composition of foods and ingredients, testing for authenticity, contaminants, allergens, and other safety parameters. By offering transparency across supply chains, the company serves food manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers, enabling them to improve operational efficiency and safety through detailed analytics and reporting.
Believer Meats is a biotechnology company based in Jerusalem, Israel, that specializes in the production of cultured meat through advanced cellular agriculture. Founded in 2018, the company aims to revolutionize global meat production by utilizing distributive manufacturing technology to produce fat and muscle cells without the necessity of raising or harvesting animals. This innovative approach not only enhances food safety but also significantly reduces the ecological impact associated with traditional meat production. By leveraging the expertise of award-winning biologists and bioengineers, along with collaboration from renowned chefs, Believer Meats is committed to making animal-free meat a viable and appealing option for consumers, ultimately providing healthier substitutes for conventional meat products.
New Wave Foods
Venture Round in 2019
New Wave Foods, Inc., established in 2015 and headquartered in San Francisco, specializes in producing and selling plant-based seafood products. The company offers a range of shrimp alternatives, including sautéed, grilled, breaded, and fried options, as well as shrimp tacos and salads. These products are made from sustainably sourced seaweed, soy protein, and natural flavors, providing a sustainable and healthier alternative to traditional seafood. New Wave Foods serves customers in the culinary market across the United States, positioning itself as a leader in sustainable seafood.
FoodLogiQ
Series B in 2019
FoodLogiQ, LLC is a technology company based in Durham, North Carolina, specializing in supply chain transparency for the food industry. Founded in 2006, it offers a comprehensive suite of software solutions designed to enhance traceability, food safety, and sustainability among food companies and their value chains. FoodLogiQ's platform includes modules for consumer mobile access, product identification, internal and external audits, lab testing, and automation of quality management procedures. The company's products, such as Mange+Monitor, Track+Trace, and Recall+Response, cater to various stakeholders, including growers, packers, shippers, food service companies, grocery retailers, and consumer packaged goods. FoodLogiQ focuses on improving global supply chain visibility, streamlining supplier management, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. Its solutions also encompass sustainability initiatives, quality incident management, and blockchain technology. The company operates an additional office in Calgary, Canada, and functions as a subsidiary of Clarkston Consulting, Inc.
Clear Labs
Venture Round in 2019
Clear Labs, Inc. is a food analytics company based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 2013. The company specializes in providing a comprehensive food analytics platform that utilizes next-generation sequencing and data analytics to enhance food safety and quality control. Its offerings include Clear Dx™ and Clear Safety™, which facilitate the rapid identification of pathogens and support public health initiatives. Clear Labs' platform delivers critical insights into the molecular composition of foods and ingredients, testing for authenticity, contaminants, allergens, and other safety parameters. By offering transparency across supply chains, the company serves food manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers, enabling them to improve operational efficiency and safety through detailed analytics and reporting.
New Wave Foods
Venture Round in 2019
New Wave Foods, Inc., established in 2015 and headquartered in San Francisco, specializes in producing and selling plant-based seafood products. The company offers a range of shrimp alternatives, including sautéed, grilled, breaded, and fried options, as well as shrimp tacos and salads. These products are made from sustainably sourced seaweed, soy protein, and natural flavors, providing a sustainable and healthier alternative to traditional seafood. New Wave Foods serves customers in the culinary market across the United States, positioning itself as a leader in sustainable seafood.
Big Idea Ventures
Venture Round in 2019
Big Idea Ventures, LLC is a New York-based venture capital firm established in 2018 that specializes in investing in early and growth-stage companies within the FoodTech sector. The firm is particularly focused on alternative protein solutions, including plant-based food products, plant-based ingredients, and cell-based meats. Big Idea Ventures aims to support the development of innovative food technologies and has invested in over 100 companies across 22 countries, with a strong presence in Asia and North America. The firm collaborates with a network of strategic partners and engages with governments globally to address food security and foster new food ecosystems. In addition to its main office in New York, Big Idea Ventures has locations in Singapore and Paris.
MycoTechnology
Series C in 2019
MycoTechnology is a food technology company based in Aurora, Colorado, that specializes in utilizing fungi-based food-processing platforms to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of agricultural products. Incorporated in 2013, the company addresses challenges in the food, beverage, and flavor industries through innovative solutions. One of its key products, ClearTaste, is an all-natural, GMO-free, organic bitter blocker that is both Kosher and Halal certified, designed to improve the flavor profile of various agricultural offerings. Additionally, MycoTechnology engages in the fermentation of agricultural products using gourmet fungi, producing items such as myceliated chocolate and enhanced coffee beans. The company also develops and licenses technology aimed at naturally improving the flavor characteristics of robusta and arabica coffee, thereby enabling food producers to incorporate healthier ingredients and strengthen brand association.
Clear Labs
Venture Round in 2018
Clear Labs, Inc. is a food analytics company based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 2013. The company specializes in providing a comprehensive food analytics platform that utilizes next-generation sequencing and data analytics to enhance food safety and quality control. Its offerings include Clear Dx™ and Clear Safety™, which facilitate the rapid identification of pathogens and support public health initiatives. Clear Labs' platform delivers critical insights into the molecular composition of foods and ingredients, testing for authenticity, contaminants, allergens, and other safety parameters. By offering transparency across supply chains, the company serves food manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers, enabling them to improve operational efficiency and safety through detailed analytics and reporting.
MycoTechnology
Venture Round in 2018
MycoTechnology is a food technology company based in Aurora, Colorado, that specializes in utilizing fungi-based food-processing platforms to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of agricultural products. Incorporated in 2013, the company addresses challenges in the food, beverage, and flavor industries through innovative solutions. One of its key products, ClearTaste, is an all-natural, GMO-free, organic bitter blocker that is both Kosher and Halal certified, designed to improve the flavor profile of various agricultural offerings. Additionally, MycoTechnology engages in the fermentation of agricultural products using gourmet fungi, producing items such as myceliated chocolate and enhanced coffee beans. The company also develops and licenses technology aimed at naturally improving the flavor characteristics of robusta and arabica coffee, thereby enabling food producers to incorporate healthier ingredients and strengthen brand association.
Believer
Seed Round in 2018
Believer Meats is a biotechnology company based in Jerusalem, Israel, that specializes in the production of cultured meat through advanced cellular agriculture. Founded in 2018, the company aims to revolutionize global meat production by utilizing distributive manufacturing technology to produce fat and muscle cells without the necessity of raising or harvesting animals. This innovative approach not only enhances food safety but also significantly reduces the ecological impact associated with traditional meat production. By leveraging the expertise of award-winning biologists and bioengineers, along with collaboration from renowned chefs, Believer Meats is committed to making animal-free meat a viable and appealing option for consumers, ultimately providing healthier substitutes for conventional meat products.
FoodLogiQ
Venture Round in 2018
FoodLogiQ, LLC is a technology company based in Durham, North Carolina, specializing in supply chain transparency for the food industry. Founded in 2006, it offers a comprehensive suite of software solutions designed to enhance traceability, food safety, and sustainability among food companies and their value chains. FoodLogiQ's platform includes modules for consumer mobile access, product identification, internal and external audits, lab testing, and automation of quality management procedures. The company's products, such as Mange+Monitor, Track+Trace, and Recall+Response, cater to various stakeholders, including growers, packers, shippers, food service companies, grocery retailers, and consumer packaged goods. FoodLogiQ focuses on improving global supply chain visibility, streamlining supplier management, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. Its solutions also encompass sustainability initiatives, quality incident management, and blockchain technology. The company operates an additional office in Calgary, Canada, and functions as a subsidiary of Clarkston Consulting, Inc.
UPSIDE Foods
Venture Round in 2018
UPSIDE Foods, formerly known as Memphis Meats, is a cultivated meat company founded in 2015 and headquartered in Berkeley, California. The company specializes in producing real meat, poultry, and seafood directly from animal cells, eliminating the need to raise and slaughter animals. This innovative approach significantly reduces the resource consumption associated with traditional meat production, requiring less water, land, and energy. UPSIDE Foods aims to offer consumers clean, humane, and sustainable meat products, such as beef meatballs, chicken, and duck, all grown in controlled environments. The company is led by Dr. Uma Valeti, who is committed to transforming the food industry with healthier and environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional meat.
UPSIDE Foods
Corporate Round in 2018
UPSIDE Foods, formerly known as Memphis Meats, is a cultivated meat company founded in 2015 and headquartered in Berkeley, California. The company specializes in producing real meat, poultry, and seafood directly from animal cells, eliminating the need to raise and slaughter animals. This innovative approach significantly reduces the resource consumption associated with traditional meat production, requiring less water, land, and energy. UPSIDE Foods aims to offer consumers clean, humane, and sustainable meat products, such as beef meatballs, chicken, and duck, all grown in controlled environments. The company is led by Dr. Uma Valeti, who is committed to transforming the food industry with healthier and environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional meat.
Tovala
Corporate Round in 2018
Tovala is a Chicago-based company that offers a unique combination of a smart oven and a fresh meal delivery service, aiming to simplify dinner preparation for busy individuals. Founded in 2015 and launched in 2017, Tovala's system features an internet-connected countertop steam oven designed for multi-step cooking, paired with gourmet chef-prepared meals. This innovative approach allows users to enjoy healthy, home-cooked meals with minimal effort, requiring only the scanning of a barcode to initiate the cooking process. Tovala's service addresses the growing demand for convenient and nutritious meal solutions in today’s fast-paced lifestyle.