PheroSyn backed by Canadian investor to fast-track pest control solution

A spin-out from the renowned chemical ecology research group at Rothamsted Research in the UK, PheroSyn is committed to providing farmers and growers with effective and sustainable pest management solutions.

The company's pheromone-based products are said to offer a safer and more targeted approach to pest management, minimising the environmental impact of traditional pesticides.

Tall Grass Ventures is focused on early-stage agri-food tech startups. It is based in Calgary – the largest city in the Canadian province of Alberta.

Dr Mary Ellis, Co-founder and CEO of Harpenden-based PheroSyn, said: “This investment is a significant step towards advancing the growth of our company and will enable us to expand our product portfolio, accelerate research and development and reach a wider market with our innovative solutions.

“Ultimately, farmers and growers across the world are facing renewed pressures with fewer products in their toolbox and this support will allow us to scale and expand our solutions to help protect crops while also preserving the earth’s biodiversity.”

By harnessing the power of natural insect communication systems, PheroSyn says its products offer a targeted and effective way to manage pests while preserving biodiversity and minimising the risk of resistance development.

Chris Edwards, Managing Partner at Tall Grass Ventures, said: “Quality of founders is at the top of the list in the venture world and we found Mary and Daniel Bahia, her co-founder and Director of Operations, excellent to work with, very down to earth and extremely motivated to succeed in this endeavour.

“Insect pheromones are not easy to synthesise accurately so PheroSyn’s unique technological approach, coupled with a market waiting for a solution, really made us stop and take notice.”