Minneapolis-based Jord BioScience has successfully closed its Series B funding round, marking a significant advancement in the development of innovative microbial solutions for agricultural applications. The funding, led by Maryland-based agrifoodtech investor Silver Blue LLC, includes participation from Discovery Capital Funding, Minnesota's Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Direct Investment, and existing investors.
Strategic Investment to Scale Microbial Innovation
The investment will accelerate Jord BioScience's efforts to develop and commercialize next-generation crop inputs through their advanced microbial technologies. The company's approach combines deep scientific expertise with practical agricultural applications, positioning them at the forefront of biological innovation in farming.
"This funding round marks a significant milestone for Jord BioScience, validating our partnership approach and the true potential of our microbial solutions to transform agriculture," stated Dr. Keri Carstens, President and CEO of Jord BioScience. "With this investment, we're poised to scale our operations to help biologicals and crop inputs companies accelerate product discovery and innovation for farmers worldwide."
Comprehensive Microbial Platform
At the heart of Jord BioScience's technology is their extensive microbial bank, comprising over 6,500 isolates collected from diverse global soils. This comprehensive collection, developed under the guidance of Chief Science Officer Dr. Linda Kinkel's 30 years of expertise, represents microorganisms from various geographies, habitats, and soil chemistries.
The company's microbial solutions are designed to enhance, protect, or promote distinct modes of action in major agricultural crops, including:
- Corn
- Soybeans
- Canola
- Wheat
- Various specialty crops
Industry Impact and Future Outlook
Francis Goelet, Director at Silver Blue LLC, emphasized the unique position of Jord BioScience in the biological innovation landscape: "While biological innovation continues to evolve, Jord BioScience stands out by offering a fast and cost-effective approach to product differentiation, life cycle management, and revenue generation for agricultural companies."
The investment comes at a crucial time when agricultural producers face increasing pressure to enhance food production while managing financial and environmental constraints. Jord BioScience's technology aims to address these challenges by improving the consistency and performance of biological solutions in agriculture.