Brazilian precision fermentation startup Future Cow has secured R$4.85 million (around $0.9 million) to make its animal-free dairy technology scalable and ready to be licensed by the food industry.
The company initially raised R$1.27 million via a crowdfunding campaign earlier this year, falling short of its R$1.5 million target. However, it has now received further funding in the form of R$1.5 million from the São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP) and R$2.2 million from the research agency Embrapii, which is linked to Brazil’s National Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM).
The funding will be used to develop new technologies and optimize production, improving sustainability and efficiency. The startup hopes to reach commercial scale next year.
“Sustainable and efficient alternative”
Future Cow is one of Brazil’s first precision fermentation startups, producing animal-free ingredients identical to dairy proteins through the fermentation of microorganisms in bioreactors. The company has previously received funding from Big Idea Ventures and São Paulo’s Antler residency program.
Future Cow is targeting the B2B market, and has already reportedly signed several MoUs with major companies. The startup’s technology is said to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and water use compared to conventional milk production.
“With the funds raised, we will accelerate the development of our precision fermentation technology, optimize production, and prepare for commercial scale,” said Leonardo Vieira, co-founder and CEO of Future Cow. “Our goal is to offer the market a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional milk.”
