The Venture Codex

Led · Equity · Apr 2024

Smartbreeder operates an AI-driven agronomic intelligence platform focused on improving crop productivity and sustainability. The company announced a R$15 million strategic investment from EcoEnterprises Fund. Proceeds will be used to consolidate its presence in the sugar‑energy sector, where it says it has increased productivity while fostering more sustainable practices. Smartbreeder plans to extend its expertise to other Brazilian agricultural verticals, including grains such as soy and corn, fiber crops like cotton, and other high‑value crops. The company also intends to expand globally and to develop educational initiatives, including an MBA program centered on artificial intelligence and deep agronomic knowledge. EcoEnterprises Fund described the platform as a world‑class solution that can accelerate understanding of agricultural science and improve sustainability in Brazil's agricultural sector.

Led · Debt Financing · May 2015

NurturMe produces certified-organic, naturally gluten-free quinoa-focused infant cereals, baby meals and toddler snacks marketed as nutrient-rich alternatives to traditional baby foods. Founded by Austin-based entrepreneurs Caroline Freedman and Lauren de la Rosa, the company launched its first quinoa line in 2014 and is a certified B Corporation. NurturMe says it has doubled sales in the last two years and will be available in more than 5,000 stores nationwide by year-end, including Whole Foods Market, Safeway, Babies"R"Us and buybuy BABY. The product family includes Quinoa Infant Cereals, NurturMeals, Quinoa Squares and toddler snacks, all non-GMO and kosher with no added preservatives or sugars. The business emphasizes sustainability and social impact through its NurturNiños initiative supporting children in the rural farming communities where its quinoa is sourced. The recent financing is intended to accelerate growth and expand its family of ancient grain-based baby and toddler foods. NurturMe produces a family of certified-organic dried quinoa, fruit and veggie meals and snacks for babies and toddlers. Led by Co-Founder and CEO Caroline Freedman, the company is a Certified B Corporation. Its products are made in the USA and are certified organic, gluten-free, non-GMO and kosher, with no added preservatives, sugars or salts. NurturMe sources Fair Trade organic quinoa from local cooperatives and has launched the NurturNiños program to support children in the Peruvian farming communities where its quinoa is grown. Financially, the company secured $1.5M in mezzanine financing and has neared completion of a $1.2M Series B1 round from angel groups. It intends to use the funds to expand its quinoa product offering and scale its social and environmental impact.