The startup develops crop protection products that enhance plant immunity by researching the molecular interactions between microbes and plants to identify key signaling molecules. This approach protects crops from pests and fungi, improving agricultural productivity and crop quality.
Funding
$5.7M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
SAFounders
Product
Problem
Farmers face significant crop losses annually due to diseases, and existing chemical solutions are losing effectiveness, while biological alternatives often lack cost-effectiveness and reliability. This necessitates new, sustainable crop protection methods that are both effective and environmentally friendly.
Solution
Ascribe Biosciences develops natural crop protection products based on small molecules found in the soil microbiome. Their lead product, Phytalix, acts as a plant defense primer, activating the plant's innate immune system to respond more effectively to pathogens. Unlike traditional fungicides, Phytalix strengthens plants rather than directly killing pathogens, reducing the risk of resistance. It can be applied as a seed treatment or foliar spray and is designed to integrate seamlessly with modern farming practices, offering a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to chemical fungicides and unreliable biologicals.
Target Audience
The primary target audience includes farmers, from large-scale commodity growers to specialty crop producers, seeking reliable, affordable, and sustainable crop protection solutions.
Features
- Utilizes naturally-occurring small molecules (ascarosides) from the soil microbiome to prime plant defense systems.
- Offers broad-spectrum protection against major fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases.
- Reduces the need for synthetic fungicide applications by 50% or more.
- Non-toxic, biodegradable, and non-GMO, ensuring safety for the environment and human health.
- Can be applied as a seed treatment or foliar spray, offering flexibility in application.
- Compatible with existing agricultural products for enhanced disease resistance.