Genesia Ventures Investment in HOLO BIO’s Seed Round: Implementing Innovative Aquaculture Technology that Optimizes and Enhances Fish Gut Microbiota
Genesia Ventures has invested in HOLO BIO’s Seed Round through its Genesia Venture Fund No. 3 (GV-3). HOLO BIO is a startup developing innovative aquaculture technology that optimizes and enhances fish gut microbiota.
About HOLO BIO
HOLO BIO, established in April 2020 by Kyoto University Professor Emeritus Masato Umeda, aims to apply his research on functional gut bacteria and other organisms to practical applications in society.
With global population growth driving increased protein demand, aquaculture has emerged as an efficient protein production method. This has led to higher demand for fish meal and fish oil which are used in aquaculture feed, resulting in declining anchovy populations — a key raw material source.
To address these challenges, HOLO BIO is developing innovative, patent-pending aquaculture technology called “New Biological Breeding Technology.” This technology utilizes fish gut bacteria to enhance growth, strengthen immune systems, and transform feeding behavior — enabling carnivorous farmed fish to become herbivorous. The company has already demonstrated successful results with several fish species.
- Corporate Website: https://www.holo-bio.com/
About the New Biological Breeding Technology
Using functional gut bacteria cocktails dramatically improves aquaculture efficiency.
By converting carnivorous fish to herbivorous ones without genetic modification, we create more sustainable fish farming with reduced environmental impact. Through this technology, the company aims to develop branded fish with integrated management from production to shipment. As a first step, it has launched Sustena-buri (HOLO BIO’s registered trademark) and plan to expand to other species including tuna, sea bream, flounder, and pacific saury.
Background and Purpose of Fundraising
The funds raised in this round will support the following activities:
- Research and development for practical implementation of innovative aquaculture technology that optimizes and enhances fish gut microbiota.
- Research and development of environmentally adaptive aquaculture technology through feeding behavior conversion.
- Talent recruitment to strengthen R&D capabilities and business growth.
About the Investment
Shuku Yushu , Investment Manager, Genesia Ventures
We are thrilled to invest in HOLO BIO. Their technology for promoting fish health and growth through functional gut bacteria cocktails has the potential to enhance the sustainability of aquaculture and revolutionize the production of regional branded fish. In particular, we believe that combining this with closed recirculating aquaculture systems will directly address major industry challenges by enabling stable supply of high-value aquaculture products while minimizing environmental impact.
We’re especially impressed by CEO Dr. Umeda, who brings not only exceptional research expertise but also demonstrates deep practical understanding by regularly visiting aquaculture sites nationwide. His hands-on approach to understanding operational challenges sets him apart. We look forward to fully supporting HOLO BIO as they work to commercialize their research and pioneer the future of sustainable fishing.
Company Profile
Company name: HOLO BIO CO., LTD.
Website: https://www.holo-bio.com/
Founded: April 1, 2020
Address: Kyoto University Katsura Venture Plaza North Building, 1-36 Goryo-Ohara, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Legal Representative: Masato Umeda
