The new financing, co-led by BMO Impact Investment Fund and S2G Ventures, will support the expansion of its bio-inspired nutrient efficiency solutions that aim to help growers achieve healthier soils, higher crop yields and climate-friendly farming practices.
The company’s flagship product, called Source, provides arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) to crops to enhance nitrogen and phosphorus uptake, reducing the need for synthetic fertilisers.
A second product, called Blueprint, provides AMF to crops and is designed to extend the plant’s reach into the soil, providing access to macronutrients, micronutrients, and water that were previously beyond reach.
When used in combination, Sound claims the two products can lead to up to 80% greater yield impact and three times higher AMF colonisation around roots.
Grower incentives
Sound also offers a programme for growers aimed at eliminating the financial risk in replacing synthetic fertiliser. By replacing 25 pounds of nitrogen and/or phosphorus, the company says growers can earn up to $10 per acre and benefit from a guaranteed yield protection program offering up to $100 per acre cash back.
After reaching 2 million acres in the US in four years, Sound is aiming to scale its portfolio across new products and geographies. “The company’s commitment to cutting-edge science, building a world class team, and innovative business models has driven tremendous value for growers,” says Marc Khouzami, managing Director at BMO Impact Investment Fund.
“Our research has given us a deep understanding of chemical signalling technology,” adds Eric Davidson, Sound’s chief product officer.
“This expertise has enabled us to bring together synergistic products that deliver essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus to crops, enhancing performance while reducing environmental impact. It began with Source several years ago, continued with Blueprint, and will scale with even more innovations in the coming years.”
