Fermenstation secures $3.4 million grant to advance biomass upcycling

Fermenstation Inc., a research and development-driven startup focused on advancing a sustainable society through fermentation technology, has secured funding to expand its efforts in upcycling unused biomass. The approximately $3.4 million grant was awarded through the Small/Startup Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase 3 fund.

The funding aims to accelerate the societal implementation of advanced technologies developed by startups. For Fermenstation, this translates into a large-scale demonstration of its fermentation technology, specifically geared toward mass-producing upcycled green food materials derived from unused biomass. The project aligns with the company’s overarching mission of promoting a circular economy by turning food waste and other unused resources into functional bio-materials.

Fermenstation’s innovation lies in its use of a unique microorganism database and advanced fermentation upcycling technology. These technologies allow the company to develop biomaterials from various sources, such as food production residues and surplus agricultural products. Their upcycled materials are already being used as raw ingredients for cosmetics and other industries.

The Tokyo-based startup aims to leverage its technology to tackle the global challenge of food waste and unused biomass—an issue gaining urgency as nations look to meet sustainability goals. The company also runs a “Co-Creation Business,” working with partner companies to upcycle by-products from food and beverage manufacturing processes.

The new funding will also allow Fermenstation to expand its team, specifically targeting research and development specialists with expertise in microbial production and food ingredient development, as well as business developers with experience in technology-driven innovation in the food sector.

The SBIR Phase 3 fund represents a major step for Fermenstation to advance its mission of building a more sustainable future. “Fermenting a Renewable Society” is the purpose the startup proudly declares, and this funding brings the company closer to realizing its vision of a society where unused resources are continuously regenerated and circulated.