Antler Bio, an agtech startup, has recently secured $4.3m (£3.1m) in funding to expand its innovative EpiHerd technology, a advanced data analytics system designed to monitor bovine health. The company operates in several key European dairy farming markets, including the UK, Finland, Sweden, and Denmark. EpiHerd’s unique selling point is its ability to interpret how a cow’s genes respond to environmental conditions, providing farmers with insights into their cattle’s wellbeing. This includes detecting stress levels and nutritional imbalances, enabling farmers to take proactive measures to improve their livestock’s health and, consequently, increase milk yield.
The implications of this technology are significant. By offering a deeper understanding of bovine health, EpiHerd empowers farmers to make data-driven decisions. This not only enhances the wellbeing of their cattle but also boosts farm efficiency and profitability. Moreover, improved animal welfare can lead to better quality dairy products, benefiting consumers as well.
Maria Jensen, co-founder and CEO of Antler Bio, expressed her enthusiasm for the future, stating, “Bringing a technology like EpiHerd to an industry that has never seen anything quite like it is no small task, but we’re incredibly excited about the future.” She further explained that the investment would facilitate the scaling of EpiHerd to thousands of farms across Europe, allowing the company to grow its team and continue refining the technology to meet the evolving needs of farmers.
The investment round was led by The First Thirty Ventures, with participation from Endgame Capital and Generation-RE. Naeem Lakhani, managing partner at The First Thirty, commented on the investment, stating, “Our investment strategy backs world-class companies creating value where agriculture meets human health. Antler Bio is a great example, combining biology and technology to help reshape the global food system.” He highlighted the company’s work in supporting animal welfare, enhancing farm efficiency, and improving nutrition for consumers.
This latest investment brings the total amount raised by Antler Bio to £6.2m, underscoring the growing interest and confidence in agtech solutions that bridge the gap between agriculture and technology. As the global food system continues to evolve, technologies like EpiHerd are poised to play a crucial role in shaping its future, benefiting farmers, animals, and consumers alike.