Inputs

Insects represent a sustainable livestock feed alternative but British regulation is stuck with the same barriers erected in response to ‘mad cow’ disease in 2001, say Rachel O’Connor and Peter Smithers.

The Los Angeles-based firm just closed on $40 million for its debut fund, with commitments from Bank of America, 301 INC, Illumen Capital's Catalyst Fund, JP Morgan Asset Management, MassMutual and the Illinois Growth and Innovation Fund.

Sustainable Agro Solutions and Biovert both specialise in agricultural inputs and have presence across global markets.

Managing director Steven Bierschenk says the life science research company plans to introduce more than 100 new offerings that will help make it attractive to future buyers.

Capital markets lead Kavitha Sampath says non-operating landowners are among potential customers for rural loans being offered in partnership with Compeer Financial and Evergreen Bank.

Australian farmland recorded a ‘solid’ annualized return for Q3 2022, but returns on a quarterly basis fell to just 0.1% as both income and capital growth stall.

A renewed focus on the importance of diet and nutrition, as well as enthusiasm for more sustainable crop inputs and alternative materials, continue to provide opportunities for agtech investors.

The start-up is working on ways to economically deliver plant trait development and has a product in market that aims to increase yields while lowering fertilizer use.

Partner Liz Harrison says a decrease among US producer respondents willing buy inputs online reflects large suppliers' lack of commitment to digital channels and the growing role of trusted agronomists.

Ponsi Trivisvavet says the Series D will support development of the Flagship Pioneering-backed startup’s next-generation corn and soybean seeds, which are likely to reach markets within a ‘couple of years.’