biotope welcomes three new startups to its portfolio
Biotope is a unique incubator program created in the spring of 2022 by research institute VIB to support up-and-coming entrepreneurs in life sciences. Today, we are proud to announce the selection of three standout startups from our fifth cohort. These companies will join a portfolio that has collectively raised €20 million in external funding and created 20 new full-time positions, underscoring the program’s commitment to fostering the next generation of biotech leaders.
Meet the selected startups
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Corium Biotech is a Portuguese startup that develops exotic leather using cellular agriculture, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional leather production.
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I-Challenge is based in Belgium and provides solutions to predict food shelf life with greater accuracy, helping companies reduce food waste and improve sustainability.
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The French company Lantana Bio specializes in producing natural colorants through precision fermentation, offering a sustainable natural dye for the cosmetics and food industries.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome these innovative companies into our program,” says Annick Verween, head of biotope. “The solutions they bring to the table have the potential to create lasting impact, and we are here to support their growth every step of the way.”
The start of an 18-month journey
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A financial investment of €250,000 in funding to help drive R&D efforts.
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Tailored mentorship by a dedicated team of scientists, business advisors, and industry experts to help guide the founders in terms of business development, regulatory pathways, and IP strategy.
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Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including VIB’s laboratories, greenhouses, and pilot production facilities, ensuring startups can scale their operations effectively.
With biotope’s strategic guidance, the three new portfolio companies are expected to reach key milestones and prepare for further investment within the next 18 months.
Keep an eye on our channels to meet the founding teams and learn more about their mission and plans.
If you’re an early-stage biotech startup with groundbreaking solutions and are looking for dedicated support, consider applying for biotope’s next cohort. Our call for our upcoming basecamp closes on Oct 16th.
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