Crop Enhancement

Crop Enhancement Inc. operates at the intersection of materials science and biology, providing sustainable crop protection solutions to agricultural growers. Founded in 2011 by Dr. David Soane, a serial entrepreneur with a background in materials science and surface chemistry, the company aims to address the increasing global demand for sustainably produced food. Dr. Soane identified a market need for alternatives to conventional pesticides, leading to the development of the company's core technology. Kevin Chen, who also holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering, took over as CEO in 2015 and led the company through its Series B funding rounds.

The company's primary business involves the development and sale of advanced, non-toxic, and biodegradable formulations. Its flagship product, CropCoat®, is a plant-based liquid that is sprayed on crops using standard farm equipment. Once applied, it forms a microscopic, durable film on plant surfaces—such as leaves, stems, and fruit—which acts as a physical barrier against pests and diseases. This unique mode of action camouflages the plant, making it unrecognizable to many insects as a food source or place to reproduce. The coating can smother existing pests upon application and creates a surface that is difficult for new pests to colonize, without impeding the plant's natural gas exchange. Because it is a physical deterrent, the risk of pests developing resistance is a non-issue.

Crop Enhancement's business model is centered on selling these formulations to growers of high-value specialty crops, including coffee, cocoa, almonds, grapes, and various fruits and vegetables. By offering a solution that can reduce the frequency of pesticide applications and is safe for workers and the environment, the company helps farmers improve yield, reduce labor costs, and meet sustainability objectives. The products are designed to be compatible with both conventional and biological farming programs and can be mixed with other agricultural inputs like nutrients. The company generates revenue through direct sales and strategic partnerships with agrochemical companies and regional distributors for market entry and distribution. Successful pilot programs, such as one with Cargill's network of cocoa growers in Indonesia, have demonstrated significant yield increases and boosted farmer income. The company has secured a total of $16.5M in funding from investors including 1955 Capital, Phoenix Venture Partners, and Spruce Capital Partners.

Keywords: crop protection, biopesticides, sustainable agriculture, agtech, materials science, CropCoat, crop coating, pest management, disease resistance, specialty crops, agricultural formulations, food sustainability, biologicals, farmer profitability, yield enhancement, cocoa farming, coffee farming, almond protection, integrated pest management, non-toxic pesticides