GreenLight Biosciences Secures Series C Funding to Scale RNA-Based Agricultural Solutions

GreenLight Biosciences has closed its Series C funding round, securing new capital to accelerate the commercialization of its sustainable RNA-based agricultural technologies. The round includes a $25 million investment from climate-focused investment firm Just Climate. Proceeds from the round will support the company’s international expansion and the advancement of innovative solutions that enhance crop productivity while preserving biodiversity.

Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Medford, Massachusetts, GreenLight Biosciences develops RNA-based tools for farmers and beekeepers to support resilient food systems. Its product pipeline includes insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides designed to minimize environmental impact.

The funding comes on the heels of the launch of Calantha, the first registered RNA-based crop protection spray. Designed for potato growers, Calantha offers a safe and environmentally responsible alternative to traditional chemical pesticides. GreenLight will use part of the new capital to support Calantha’s commercial rollout.

The investment will also advance other key developments in the company’s pipeline, such as Norroa, a treatment to protect bee colonies from varroa mites, and Fortivance, a product that improves the efficiency of existing agricultural treatments while reducing their environmental footprint. GreenLight also aims to expand its operations in international markets, with a particular focus on Brazil and Latin America.

Dr. Andrey Zarur, CEO of GreenLight Biosciences, said the investment underscores confidence in the company’s mission. “This strategic investment from Just Climate and others represents a powerful endorsement of our RNA platform’s potential to revolutionize agriculture while addressing environmental challenges including pollinator health.”

Just Climate, chaired by Al Gore’s Generation Investment Management, focuses on investments in hard-to-abate sectors. Eduardo Mufarej, co-Chief Investment Officer and head of the firm’s Natural Climate Solutions strategy, emphasized GreenLight’s potential to make a transformative impact: “Their platform addresses some of the most pressing challenges facing global agriculture and biodiversity conservation.”