Superorganism, a venture capital fund with a mission to back startups focused on restoring nature and biodiversity, has just closed its first funding round. With $26 million in the bank, the company is already supporting groundbreaking projects like creating leather from invasive species and producing algae-based plastics.
Kevin Webb, an investor and one of the fund’s directors, describes Superorganism’s approach as similar to a climate tech fund but with a focus on nature. Their investments are guided by three main principles: reinventing industries historically linked to biodiversity loss, exploring the intersections between nature and climate, and betting on enabling technologies.
A Unique Funding Model
Superorganism has already made 20 investments ranging from $250,000 to $500,000, primarily in early-stage startups. The long-term goal is to build a portfolio of about 35 companies. Among the investors are AMB Holdings, Builders Vision, and the Cisco Foundation.
The fund focuses on technologies that can be valuable tools for conservationists, such as next-generation satellites, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence. Notable startups supported include Funga and Inversa, both of which are turning ecological challenges into economic opportunities.
Startups to Watch: Funga and Inversa
Funga specializes in revitalizing soil microbiology to speed up forest regeneration and increase carbon storage. The startup uses genetic data to identify microbes that promote healthy forests and applies this knowledge to inoculate young plants.
Inversa, on the other hand, offers leather products made from invasive species. The company collaborates with hunting and fishing cooperatives to remove these species from ecosystems and transform them into luxury materials. This innovative business model contributes to habitat conservation and the creation of new markets.
However, Superorganism’s gamble is not without risks. The amount of funding remains modest compared to the scale of ecological challenges, and the long-term success of these startups will depend on their ability to establish themselves in the market.
