The Venture Codex

Participated · Seed · Jun 2023

Founded in 2022 by Dr Tom Williams and Dr Alex Carpenter, Number 8 Bio uses synthetic biology to produce an organic small-molecule feed additive and a six-month slow-release cattle capsule that target enteric fermentation, the main source of livestock methane. Initial trials show the product can reduce methane emissions by up to 90% while also improving rumen fermentation. By manufacturing the molecule domestically, the company aims to undercut higher-cost seaweed supplements and deliver a clear ROI for farmers. The Series A capital will fund large-scale animal trials, secure regulatory approvals for expansion into New Zealand, Europe and the United States, and prepare for commercial launch in 2026. Number 8 Bio also plans to roll out a carbon-insetting program enabling farmers and supply chains to claim verified emissions reductions. The startup previously won the Positive Impact Award in the UNSW SynBio 10X Accelerator. To date, it has raised at least US$18 million across Seed and Series A rounds.

Participated · Seed · May 2022

Contactile develops tactile sensors and related technology that enable robotic grippers to autonomously handle previously unseen objects and perform more complex manipulation through touch-feedback. The technology was developed at UNSW Sydney with initial funding support from the Australian Research Council and the US Office of Naval Research Global. Led by CEO Dr. Heba Khamis, CTO Benjamin Xia, and Associate Professor Stephen Redmond, the company aims to improve robotic dexterity across a range of use cases. Contactile plans to use its Seed funding to pursue further research and product development and to execute pilots demonstrating the value of tactile sensing. Target applications mentioned include short-term commercial use such as warehouse fulfillment and long-term uses including space infrastructure assembly.