Cargill Ventures

Cargill Ventures serves as the corporate venture capital arm of Cargill, Inc., a global leader in food, agriculture, financial services, and industrial products. Established to identify and invest in innovative companies, Cargill Ventures plays a crucial role in advancing strategic priorities across Cargill’s vast ecosystem. Its investment thesis is deeply rooted in fostering sustainable solutions and disruptive technologies that enhance the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of the global food and agriculture value chains. The fund primarily targets opportunities in areas such as AgTech, FoodTech, animal nutrition, sustainable ingredients, supply chain optimization, and biotechnology, aligning with Cargill's long-term vision for a more resilient and sustainable future.

The venture arm is known for its strategic, rather than purely financial, investment approach, often seeking to build long-term partnerships with its portfolio companies. Cargill Ventures typically invests across various stages, from early-stage startups with promising technologies to more mature growth-stage companies looking to scale their operations. This flexibility allows them to engage with a broad spectrum of innovation, providing not only capital but also leveraging Cargill's extensive industry expertise, global network, and operational resources to support the growth and market penetration of its portfolio companies. Their involvement often extends beyond capital, offering strategic guidance and potential commercial collaborations.

Since its inception, Cargill Ventures has demonstrated a significant commitment to driving innovation within the agri-food sector. As of recent reports, the fund has deployed over $500 million in capital across more than 40 companies, showcasing its substantial impact and active presence in the market. Notable investments include companies like Upside Foods (cellular agriculture), Puris (plant-based proteins), and Calysta (alternative proteins), among others that are pioneering advancements in sustainable food production and agricultural practices. These investments underscore Cargill Ventures' dedication to supporting technologies that address critical global challenges, from food security to environmental sustainability. The fund's consistent activity and strategic focus position it as a key player in shaping the future of food and agriculture.