Berlin-based climate tech startup Project Eaden has raised €15 million in an oversubscribed Series A funding round to scale its innovative fiber-spinning technology for plant-based meat production.
The round was led by Planet A and REWE Group, with participation from investors including DeepTech & Climate Fonds, Happiness Capital, AgriFoodTech Venture Alliance, and existing backers Creandum and FoodLabs.
Reinventing Plant-Based Meat
Founded in 2022 by Dr. David Schmelzeisen, Hubertus Bessau, and Jan Wilmking, Project Eaden is redefining plant-based meats by using fiber-spinning techniques inspired by the textile industry. The company’s approach replicates the structure of animal muscle fibers, delivering a realistic texture and taste that appeals even to the most skeptical consumers.
Co-founder Jan Wilmking emphasized the company’s mission:
“We aim to make the switch from animal meat a no-brainer by delivering products that excel in taste, texture, and nutrition.”
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Addressing Climate Impact
The startup’s plant-based meat products significantly reduce environmental impact compared to traditional meat production:
- Up to 20 kg CO₂ emissions saved per kilogram produced.
- 56 cubic meters less water consumption.
- 20 square meters of land saved per kilogram.
With the global demand for meat rising, Project Eaden provides a scalable, sustainable solution to meet this need while minimizing resource consumption.
Market Expansion and Retail Rollout
The fresh funding will support the firm’s European expansion, with its first product—a plant-based ham—set to launch in thousands of REWE supermarkets across Germany in 2025. The German ham market alone is valued at over €2 billion, presenting a significant growth opportunity.
Project Eaden plans to use the capital to:
- Expand production capacity to meet growing demand.
- Diversify its product range, introducing new plant-based meat alternatives.
- Strengthen its team across operations, engineering, marketing, and sales.
Future Outlook
Project Eaden’s proprietary technology offers a cost-effective, scalable alternative to traditional meat production, positioning the company as a leader in the plant-based food revolution.
With a total funding of €27 million, including previous seed investments and public grants, Project Eaden is poised to disrupt the food industry and contribute to a more sustainable future.
