Enduro Genetics, a synthetic biology startup, has raised €12 million in Series A funding. Supernova Invest, NOON Ventures, and Sandwater led the investment.
The funding will support the expansion of Enduro’s platform and its commercialization efforts. The startup addresses a key challenge in biomanufacturing: declining productivity in large-scale production.
The global biomanufacturing market, valued at €400 billion, relies on genetically engineered microorganisms. These microorganisms often mutate in industrial processes, leading to “cell-to-cell variation.” This mutation causes productive cells to be outcompeted, reducing yield and profitability.
Enduro’s patented “synthetic addiction” technology, developed by founder Peter Rugbjerg, aims to solve this issue. The technology integrates a genetic plug-in into the microbial host, linking cell productivity to health and growth.
This ensures only high-producing cells survive, eliminating non-productive cells. Enduro Sense aims to maintain a stable microbial community, enhancing efficiency in biomanufacturing.
The technology applies to various expression systems and can be integrated into existing and emerging processes. This adaptability allows Enduro’s clients to produce existing products more efficiently, while promoting innovation.
Enduro is commercializing its technology during a crucial period. Many industries are turning to biomanufacturing for sustainable alternatives to fossil-fuel-based products, including biofuels and bioplastics.
Enduro, led by CEO Christian Munch and Rugbjerg, already works with leading biomanufacturing firms in pharmaceuticals, food, and agriculture. With the new funding, Enduro has raised a total of €18 million, including previous grants. This funding will enhance the technology platform and accelerate commercialization efforts.
Munch stated that this funding marks a key milestone for Enduro. He emphasized its significance for both the technology’s impact and market validation.
Rugbjerg noted the long-standing challenge of cell-to-cell variation in biomanufacturing. He expressed optimism that Enduro’s technology could unlock biotechnology’s full potential.
Romain Sautrau from Supernova Invest highlighted Enduro’s technology as a potential game-changer for the food and chemical industries. He praised the team’s swift progress in attracting leading biomanufacturing clients.
Theis Malmborg of NOON Ventures reaffirmed his support, calling Enduro’s technology a solution to critical challenges in bioproduction. He expressed enthusiasm about the team’s impact on the future of biomanufacturing.
