BiomEdit

BiomEdit, founded in 2022, is a genetic engineering company specializing in microbiome innovation for animal health. This venture is a result of collaboration between Elanco, a global leader in animal health solutions, and Ginkgo Bioworks, a company renowned for its cell programming platform.

BiomEdit uses a high-throughput microbiology platform paired with AI-powered predictive algorithms, which claims to generate new hypotheses with greater probability of success than traditional methods. The company focuses on discovering, designing, and developing novel probiotics, bioactive molecules, and engineered microbial medicines to prevent diseases and promote health and well-being in animals. As of May 2024, its pipeline included eight projects, covering five species.

Key customers and partnerships

BiomEdit is closely associated with its founding companies, Elanco and Ginkgo Bioworks, leveraging their resources and expertise in its operations. 

In January 2023, the company established a long-term strategic research and commercial partnership with Nutreco to develop next-generation ultra-specialty feed additives called Biome-actives. Furthermore, in October 2023, it partnered with Athian to develop protocols for sustainability outcomes stemming from methane-reducing products in the livestock industry.

Funding and financials

BiomEdit launched its Series A funding round in April 2022, which concluded in January 2023 after raising USD 37 million. Additionally, it received a USD 4.5 million grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in November 2023 to accelerate the R&D of novel microbiome-based solutions.