With the rising interest in cellular agriculture and lab grown meat, many investors are looking for opportunities to invest in this emerging field. Lab grown or cultured meat refers to meat that is produced by culturing animal cells in a controlled environment, rather than raising and slaughtering animals. This technology has the potential to disrupt the traditional meat industry and offers some unique investment opportunities for forward-thinking investors. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various ways investors can gain exposure to the lab grown meat sector through public markets, venture capital, and equity crowdfunding.
Investing in public cellular agriculture companies
As lab grown meat inches closer to commercialization, a handful of publicly-traded companies have emerged in the cellular agriculture space. These include food giants like Tyson Foods, which have invested in startups like Memphis Meats, as well as small-cap stocks focused entirely on alt meat products. While there are not many pure-play options right now, investors can gain exposure to the industry by investing in these existing public companies with activities in cellular ag.
Venture capital and private equity
For accredited investors, one of the most direct ways to invest in lab grown meat is through venture capital and private equity firms that focus on food tech and biotech. There are several VC firms that have been active in funding startups across the cellular agriculture sector. Participating in these venture funds allows investors to gain exposure to a portfolio of private companies commercializing lab grown meat and other cellular ag products.
Equity crowdfunding
Retail investors also have opportunities to invest directly in lab grown meat startups through equity crowdfunding platforms. These online portals allow individuals to invest in private companies in return for equity, providing exposure to cutting-edge startups. Several cellular ag startups have utilized these sites to raise capital from a wider pool of investors outside of traditional VC.
From public markets to venture capital funds to crowdfunding, investors have a growing suite of options to gain exposure to the promising lab grown meat sector. As the industry matures, even more opportunities are likely to emerge.