Berlin-based startup Klim has made headlines with its impressive $22 million Series A funding round, the largest of its kind in Germany’s AgriTech sector this year. Founded in 2020, Klim is at the forefront of a transformative movement in agriculture, offering food companies a robust digital platform designed to facilitate the transition to regenerative farming practices. This innovative approach aims not only to decarbonize agricultural supply chains but also to empower farmers with essential tools for sustainable farming.
With over 3,500 farmers already utilizing Klim’s platform, the startup is making significant strides in restoring soil health, enhancing farm resilience, and fostering biodiversity across more than 700,000 hectares of land, which accounts for 5 percent of Germany’s farmland. Notable clients such as Nestlé, Kaufland, and Aryzta underscore the growing interest among major food corporations in sustainable practices. “Our food system is undergoing a monumental shift, with regenerative agriculture at its core,” stated Klim’s CEO, Robert Gerlach. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between food companies and farmers to drive this change, positioning Klim as a key player in what he describes as the biggest agricultural transition since the Green Revolution.
The funding round was led by BNP Paribas, with contributions from prominent investors including Earthshot Ventures, Rabobank, AgFunder, and others. This financial backing not only highlights the confidence investors have in Klim’s vision but also signals a broader recognition of the urgent need to address sustainability in food production. Maximilian Schausberger from Elevator Ventures noted that Klim is tackling a critical challenge: feeding a growing global population while simultaneously restoring ecosystems. The integration of a strong financial services component within Klim’s platform is expected to enhance its scalability and impact.
Rabobank’s Martijn Scholtes pointed out that systemic change in agriculture requires the involvement of the entire food and agriculture ecosystem. Klim’s approach aligns seamlessly with Rabobank’s mission to support rural clients in adopting sustainable practices, further reinforcing the notion that collaboration is essential for driving meaningful change.
The new funding will enable Klim to expand its international presence, enhance its digital platform, and introduce a financial services layer aimed at accelerating the transition to regenerative agriculture. This strategic move is poised to amplify the startup’s influence and effectiveness in fostering sustainable farming practices, ultimately benefiting both farmers and the environment. As the agricultural sector grapples with the challenges of climate change and food security, Klim’s innovative solutions could play a pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable future for agriculture.
