Beta Bugs

Beta Bugs is unlocking the genetic potential of the Black Soldier Fly in insect farming for more sustainable protein production.

Trading activity
Biotechnology Research
SIS Ventures role
Lead Impact Investor
Website
Thomas Farrugia CEO Betabugs (Pic Credit Rachel Hein)

Beta Bugs have developed the UK’s first comprehensive selective breeding programme and egg production site for the Black Soldier Fly, which is farmed as an alternative protein source for use in aquaculture, pork, and poultry feed and can be reared on various waste streams, including agricultural and food waste. Black Soldier Fly farming provides a green, circular, and regionally produced alternative to the environmentally damaging production of soy meal and fishmeal, one of the prime causes of deforestation, biodiversity loss, and overfishing.

In 2023, SIS Ventures invested in a funding round led by TRICAPITAL Syndicate LLP, with Scottish Enterprise, Beeches Group, Climate.vc, together with existing shareholders in the business and InnovateUK.

This investment will allow Beta Bugs to expand production capacity, drive to profitability over the coming 18-24 months and further strengthen their market leadership position in the strategically important insect farming industry.

As the UK’s only insect genetics company, Beta Bugs is laying the foundation for a more sustainable global feed system. By creating jobs and diverting waste for its ground-breaking breeding programme, the business will deliver significant impact here in Scotland, with the potential to deliver even greater impact globally as the business grows and scales. We’re very happy to welcome Thomas and the team into the SIS Ventures portfolio and look forward to helping them achieve their impact goals. Arran Dewar, Executive Director, SIS Ventures.

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