Natural Ventures Secures $100 Million for Inaugural Fund Focused on Sustainable Food and Water Solutions

Natural Ventures has successfully closed its first fund, raising $100 million in commitments. Named Natural Ventures Fund I, this ten-year closed-end fund aims to promote sustainability in global food and water resources, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

The fund received backing from various investors, including Chemovateq, a Swiss family office with interests in agribusiness and the food supply chain, and an undisclosed strategic investor from the United Arab Emirates.

The need for innovative solutions in food and water management is pressing. According to UN data, approximately 2.4 billion individuals reside in regions facing water stress, and agriculture accounts for 72% of the world’s freshwater use. Addressing these issues through innovation is critical for enhancing global food and water security.

Since its inception in 2021, Natural Ventures has made four investments. Recently, the firm funded Active Membranes, a California-based nanotechnology company, with an undisclosed amount. This seed investment supports technology designed to minimize scaling and fouling in membrane filtration, potentially reducing water desalination costs by up to 35%. This technology has significant potential applications in the Middle East, where desalination is prevalent.

Additionally, Natural Ventures participated in a $44 million Series C funding round for N-Drip, an Israeli company specializing in gravity-based irrigation technology. This investment is aimed at reducing the costs associated with water desalination. The fund also contributed €27 million ($29 million) in seed funding to Constellr, a German company developing satellite technology for predictive crop stress management.

Natural Ventures operates from offices in The Hague, Netherlands, and Abu Dhabi Global Market. The Maples Group has been appointed to provide fund administration services, recognizing its substantial presence in the Middle East. Fred Tabbal, Regional Head of Fund Services – Middle East at the Maples Group, highlighted the significance of the fund’s impact investment approach and its potential to drive positive change.