Netherlands-based agrifoodtech venture capital fund celebrates final closing
Dutch agrifoodtech environmental impact investor Future Food Fund II (FFF II) has announced its final closing, having successfully raised €40 million.
The milestone was achieved with the support of impact-driven entrepreneurs backing FFF from the first hour and esteemed entities such as), which affirms its confidence in FFF II’s vision and its potential to reshape the future of food and agriculture.
Since its inception, FFF II said that has been a strong force in the transformation of food and agriculture systems, investing in Seed & Serie-A companies in Western Europe that change the value chain of food & agriculture. Focus is on pivotal areas like regenerative agriculture, zero-impact foods and circular systems. These sectors are crucial for mitigating climate change impact aligning perfectly with the fund’s mission to invest in a sustainable future.
“Future Food Fund II is more than an investment vehicle; it’s a catalyst for change. We are not just investing in companies; we are investing in a brighter future for our planet,” stated Peter Arensman, Founding Partner of FFF II. “We are grateful to have such a strong base of entrepreneurs who have continued to support us since our inception, and we are equally appreciative of the commitment from our valued partners both in the Netherlands and across Europe.
During this final close, The European Investment Fund has committed €20 million to the fund, supported under the InvestEU programme of the European Commission, Risk Capital Resources and the Dutch Future Fund.
EIF Chief Executive Marjut Falkstedt said: “The EIF, as part of the EIB Group, works to mitigate climate change through its investments. Future Food Fund II supports this European vision for a sustainable future by investing in ground-breaking ventures that prioritise environmental sustainability. A more resilient and eco-friendly food system benefits all EU citizens and we’re happy to support this.”
The fund has already invested in various startups that embody the essence of innovation and sustainability. Among these, FFF II has invested in EV Biotech, a company specialising in designing and optimising precision fermentation strains and processes, and Extracellular, a CDMO scale-up and development partner for cultivated meat. With a full pipeline of opportunities, more companies are expected to join the portfolio in 2024.
In addition to the EIF, FFF II has continued its collaboration with influential Dutch organisations such as Wageningen University & Research (WUR), Oost NL, and the Northern Netherlands development agency NOM. These partnerships underscore the Netherlands’ position as a frontrunner in agrifoodtech and sustainability.
With the final closing of the fund, FFF II will continue to invest in early-stage startups, further solidifying its role as a key player in the sustainable transformation of the food and agriculture sector.
Image: Future Food Fund II