Superorganism Raises $25 Million to Fuel Biodiversity-Focused Startups
Superorganism has raised $25.9 million to support startups aiming to enhance biodiversity and combat extinction through innovative technologies.
Now, the firm has closed its first fund, securing $25.9 million from investors like Cisco Foundation and Jeff Jordan of Andreessen Horowitz. Superorganism is helping companies that work on technology to slow or reverse extinction and that blend climate solutions with biodiversity efforts.
The company writes checks ranging from $250,000 to $500,000 for new startups while donating 10% of its profits to future conservation projects. Kevin Webb, a managing director, explained that they focus on nature loss rather than just carbon emissions.
One example of a startup they support is Spoor. This company uses computer vision software to track bird movements. This helps reduce wind turbines’ negative impact on local bird populations, making it beneficial for both nature and wind farm developers.
Webb and Tom Quigley started the firm after they met and decided to create a new way to invest in biodiversity. Although their journey began amid a changing political landscape in the U.S., they successfully reached their $25 million goal.
Quigley noted that understanding Superorganism’s purpose and differences from climate-focused funds took some work. Their varied portfolio shows different types of innovative companies, helping attract various investors and customers.
“We are building a diverse portfolio,” Quigley shared, emphasizing the value in showcasing top biodiversity companies across different fields and technologies.
Many biodiversity challenges go beyond political debates. For instance, Florida’s Republican governor praised one of their companies, Inversa, for addressing the invasive python issue in the Everglades.
So far, Superorganism has invested in 20 companies. They plan to have about 35 companies in their portfolio for this fund. Quigley mentioned they are paving the way for others to support biodiversity and find the right projects that can truly make a difference.