Over the past six months, the Ready2Scale Acceleration Program has supported 15 digital and deep-tech startups with tailored mentorship, resources, and a €60,000 grant to fuel their growth. Among them is ExSeed Ltd., a startup revolutionizing plant-based protein manufacturing with novel waste-free technologies. Let’s explore their story.
ExSeed Ltd. develops innovative technologies for producing sunflower protein isolate. Their waste-free approach extracts high-quality sunflower protein isolate from the by-products of sunflower oil production, enabling the commercial viability of this plant-based product.
The startup was founded in 2023 by Boyan Zahariev and Dr. Angel Iliev. Boyan, a seasoned entrepreneur, previously founded and managed Green Gold International Ltd., a cleantech startup specializing in upcycling wine-making residues. Angel holds a PhD in chemistry and has extensive experience in bionutrient extraction technologies, laboratory work, and R&D, making the duo a perfect team to pioneer sustainable innovations in plant-based protein production.
How did you come up with the idea to create a startup?
The idea for ExSeed grew out of earlier attempts at optimally extracting other plant-based bionutrients.
What have been the biggest challenges/failures and the biggest wins so far?
Identifying the right partners has been a significant challenge, whether they are experts, investors, employees, or programme collaborators. A good fit between the project and external stakeholders is crucial for successful cooperation.
What sets your startup apart from competitors?
We have developed our technology entirely in-house, without outsourcing any part of the process. ExSeed’s proprietary 3-layer technology has been in continuous development in our purpose-built lab since 2022, ensuring complete control over innovation and quality.
Why would you recommend the Ready2Scale Acceleration Programme to other startups?
The programme is particularly well-suited for deep-tech startups in their early growth phase. With access to a well-chosen pool of experts, relevant and manageable webinars, personal mentorship, and valuable networking opportunities, the programme provides the right support for startups to grow and succeed.
Where do you see your startup in 1 year?And where in 5 years?
In one year, we aim to be closer to operating a full-scale pilot line with larger monthly production capacity. Currently, we are scaling up to a small pilot line with the help of R2S.
Which books/podcasts/publications and influencers in your field do you follow and would recommend to other aspiring entrepreneurs?
We mostly read classical literature and listen to 80s music.
If you’d get to meet with Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos, what would you ask them?
What shampoo they use.
ExSeed Ltd. is growing and is on the lookout for a Sales Associate to join their dynamic team. If you’re passionate about innovation, sustainability, and contributing to a rapidly evolving industry, they would love to hear from you. Send your CV and cover letter to: office@ex-seed.eu