Dutch Agtech Startup Bionomic Secures €350K Investment from UNIIQ
The Hague, Friday, 8 November 2024.
UNIIQ, a venture fund in The Hague, has invested €350,000 in Bionomic, a Dutch agtech startup developing eco-friendly biopesticides. The funding will support Bionomic’s mission to provide sustainable alternatives to harmful plant pathogen control, potentially transforming agricultural practices.
Innovative Biopesticides: A Greener Approach
Bionomic, based in Oegstgeest, Netherlands, is pioneering the development of environmentally friendly biopesticides. Unlike conventional chemical pesticides, Bionomic’s solutions utilize natural, biodegradable components. These innovations target specific plant pathogens like Fusarium oxysporum, minimizing harm to beneficial organisms such as bees, soil life, and aquatic ecosystems.[1]
The Impact on Agriculture Sustainability
The introduction of Bionomic’s biopesticides has the potential to significantly enhance agricultural sustainability. By reducing reliance on harmful chemicals, these biopesticides contribute to preserving biodiversity and preventing the accumulation of toxic residues in the environment. This aligns with global trends focusing on sustainable food production, offering farmers effective tools to manage plant diseases without detrimental ecological impacts.[2]
The Role of UNIIQ in Supporting Innovation
UNIIQ, an investment fund with a focus on the ‘proof-of-concept’ phase, manages a portfolio designed to accelerate innovative ideas in South Holland. The fund, managed by Innovation Quarter, Leiden University, Erasmus MC, and TU Delft, provides critical resources to early-stage companies. Their investment in Bionomic is part of a broader strategy to support agtech solutions that promise significant environmental and economic benefits.[1]
Future Prospects for Bionomic
With the €350,000 funding from UNIIQ, Bionomic aims to scale up its production capacity and further validate its biopesticide technology. According to Bionomic CEO Diederik Mud, this investment is crucial for advancing their mission to provide sustainable agricultural solutions. The support from UNIIQ not only enables Bionomic to expand its reach but also underscores the growing interest in agtech innovations that address pressing ecological challenges.[1][2]