Black Bull Biochar (BBB), a UK start-up focused on sustainable agriculture and carbon removal, has secured £4 million in late seed funding. The round was co-led by TSP Ventures, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority Investment Fund, and Old College Capital.
The funding will help BBB expand operations across North West England and accelerate its entry into northern Europe. The investment supports new production sites, broader research capacity, and new markets. BBB recently opened a subsidiary in Denmark and plans to relocate its headquarters from London to Manchester.
BBB’s biochar technology involves heating organic materials like woodchip or straw in low-oxygen environments, a process called pyrolysis. This produces a stable, carbon-rich material that improves soil health and captures carbon for thousands of years.
Demand for durable carbon removal credits is rising rapidly. Global offtake values are projected to reach about $1.5 billion in 2024, up from $815 million in 2023. Biochar enhances soil productivity and crop yields while reducing farm emissions.
CEO and co-founder Alex Clarke explained, “Farmers face rising costs and stricter nutrient rules. Our goal is to provide practical tools that fit existing systems.” He added, “We aim to strengthen soil health, improve nutrient efficiency, and store carbon, helping farmers and industry alike.”
Mike Doswell, TSP Ventures’ Chief Investment Officer, said, “Black Bull Biochar is becoming a market leader in biochar and carbon removals. The market for carbon removals is just beginning to grow.”
Cllr David Molyneux from GMCA highlighted that BBB’s growth will create jobs, support local supply chains, and help Manchester achieve carbon neutrality by 2038.
Previously, BBB received £3.2 million from the UK government’s Net Zero Innovation Portfolio, supporting its pioneering carbon capture projects.
