The Norwegian aquaculture biotech business Planktonic AS, the creator of the patented CryoPlankton hatching feed, has raised about NOK 30 million to expand internationally and improve its production capacity. With assistance from current investors Investinor and Bondø Invest, Ichthus Venture Capital (IVC) and Hatch Blue Revolution Fund managed the investment round. The investment will boost commercial growth in important markets, improve facilities in Trondheim, and increase the supply of raw materials.
High biosecurity, reliable performance, and proven biological advantages, such as increased larval survival rates, quicker growth, and fewer deformities, are provided by cryoplankton in marine fish and crustacean hatcheries. Over 40 hatcheries in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe have already employed the method.
“Planktonic has built a strong market position in Norway and Europe and is now ready to scale globally,” said Rune Husby, CEO of Planktonic. “This investment strengthens our ability to support sustainable growth for both established and emerging aquaculture species” he added.
Planktonic is becoming more and more well-known in Europe and the Middle East due to the rising need for premium hatchery feed for fish like sea bass and sea bream. Commercial deliveries are now taking place in these markets, according to Antonio Coli, Commercial Director.
Mats Malvig, Managing Director at IVC, praised the innovation, “The company’s technology and products represent a scientifically sound and industrially relevant innovation for modern aquaculture”. Georg Baunach, Managing Partner at Hatch Blue’s Blue Revolution Fund, added: “We like the clear value proposition of their offering with strong growth potential across various species and look forward to working with the team to scale the company.”
“This capital raise brings not just funding but also strategic investors with deep industry expertise and strong global networks,” said Ronny Vikdal, Investment Director at Investinor. He further added “It’s a major milestone for Planktonic as it enters its next phase of growth.”
