Vivici Raises €32.5 Million in Series A Funding for Dairy Protein Innovation

Vivici Secures €32.5 Million in Series A Funding

Vivici, a Dutch ingredients startup, has announced a successful funding round that raised €32.5 million (approximately $33.7 million) in Series A financing. The funding, led by APG on behalf of the ABP pension fund, includes contributions from Invest-NL and InnovationQuarter, alongside notable support from existing investors dsm-firmenich and Fonterra. This infusion of capital signifies a significant step forward for the company as it seeks to commercialize its innovative dairy protein offerings derived from precision fermentation.

Founded recently in 2023, Vivici’s mission is to transform dairy protein production through advanced biotechnology, thereby meeting the growing global protein demand without relying on traditional animal agriculture. The startup plans to utilize the newly acquired funds to push for advancements in international markets, launch additional dairy protein products, and establish robust long-term manufacturing infrastructures.

The planned product line will expand upon the success of its initial offering, Vivitein™ BLG, an isolated whey protein (beta-lactoglobulin) that caters to the active nutrition market—a sector valued at over $28.4 billion in 2023. The launch of Vivitein™ marks a pivotal moment for Vivici, aligning with consumer trends favoring plant-based and sustainable food sources. This innovative protein method boasts a significantly lower environmental impact, using 86% less water and contributing 68% less carbon than traditional dairy protein sources.

With the rise in health consciousness among consumers, and a substantial growth rate of 8.5% in the active nutrition sector, Vivici is well-positioned to offer unique product innovations. Their focus on creating clear water-based protein drinks and vegan-friendly bars that replicate textures of conventional products will unlock extensive new commercial opportunities in the food industry.

Stephan van Sint Fiet, the CEO of Vivici, expressed confidence regarding the fundraising, stating, “This investment demonstrates the strong belief our investors have in our vision and capabilities. With our Vivitein™ platform, we are setting a new benchmark in protein sources that is not only nutritious but also sustainable.”

Vivici's strategy is not merely focused on immediate product launches but on establishing a strong pipeline for future innovations, including another promising ingredient, the lactoferrin-based Vivitein™ LF, set to hit the shelves by late 2025.

The company’s use of precision fermentation—a process combining traditional fermentation with cutting-edge biotechnological advancements—enables the production of proteins with superior taste and nutritional quality while being environmentally sustainable. This innovative approach is crucial as the world grapples with issues of food security and sustainability in light of population growth.

Overall, Vivici’s story reflects the potential for technology and sustainability to converge in the food industry. With a robust leadership team, strong backing from multinational companies, and a clear vision for the future, Vivici is positioned to disrupt the dairy market, ensuring that it not only keeps pace with consumer demands but actively shapes the trajectories of the food industry into the next decade and beyond. Their commitment to innovation and sustainability could set a new standard in the production of protein-based foods, addressing global nutrition needs while protecting the planet for future generations.

In conclusion, the recent funding boost for Vivici highlights the increasing investor interest in innovative food technologies, particularly those that prioritize sustainability and health. As the company gets ready to unveil its unique offerings to the market, it stands at the forefront of a redefined approach to nutrition, sustainability, and consumer demand.