• Vivici has secured €32.5 million in Series A funding led by pension fund ABP and Invest-NL to commercialize dairy proteins made through precision fermentation.
  • The company's first product, Vivitein™ BLG, offers 86% less water usage and 68% lower carbon footprint compared to conventional dairy protein production.
  • Vivici will use the funding to expand into new international markets, launch its second product (Vivitein™ LF) in H2 2025, and establish long-term manufacturing capabilities.

Vivici, a Dutch ingredients startup backed by DSM-Firmenich and Fonterra, has secured €32.5 million (approximately US$33.7 million) in Series A funding to advance its precision fermentation technology for producing dairy proteins without animals.

The funding round was led by APG on behalf of ABP, one of the world's largest pension funds, and Invest-NL. InnovationQuarter also participated alongside continued support from existing shareholders dsm-firmenich and Fonterra.

Founded in 2023, Vivici uses precision fermentation to create dairy proteins that match conventional dairy's functionality and nutritional profile while significantly reducing environmental impact.

The company's first product, Vivitein™ BLG (beta-lactoglobulin), offers impressive sustainability credentials, including 86% less water usage and a 68% lower carbon footprint compared to conventional dairy protein production.

"With this investment, we will continue on our path to turning the promise of precision fermentation into a commercial reality," said Stephan van Sint Fiet, CEO of Vivici. "This fundraise demonstrates the confidence investors have in both our mission and our capabilities."

The fresh capital will support Vivici's international market expansion, the launch of its second dairy protein ingredient (Vivitein™ LF, a lactoferrin product scheduled for release later this year), and the establishment of long-term manufacturing capabilities.

Vivici is targeting the active nutrition market, valued at US$28.4 billion globally in 2023 and growing at 8.5% annually.

The company has already secured its first customer agreements for its dairy protein ingredients, which enable innovations like clear water-based protein drinks and vegan-friendly bars with textures similar to those made with animal-derived ingredients.

Lodewijk Meens, senior portfolio manager at APG Netherlands Energy Transition & Biodiversity fund, highlighted the appeal of Vivici's approach: "The Vivitein™ protein platform offers a compelling package of sustainability, consumer, and commercial benefits.

This makes it a strong proposition for food companies looking to unlock new potential, now and in the long term.

Edited By Annette George