Can plant-based proteins compete with the real thing?

GrainFrac’s advanced extraction technology helps to reduce the cost and environmental impact of plant-based proteins

The Opportunity

Plant-based proteins present a great opportunity to meet the growing demand for healthy proteins in a way that doesn’t place excessive burden on the planet. But achieving cost-competitiveness has been a challenge, keeping mainstream adoption out of reach. GrainFrac saw an opportunity to help reduce the cost of protein extraction from lentils and grains, while using less water and energy, helping to reduce its overall climate impact.  

The Challenge

GrainFrac’s technology was proven. They could efficiently extract soluble fiber from barley. Now they had funding to validate the technology’s effectiveness on extracting plant protein concentrates and isolates from other crops such as lentils and other pulses, but needed someone to manage that project and begin the process of securing capital investment.  

NPC’s Solution

NPC provided GrainFrac with $100,000 through its Access To Talent Program to hire an experienced management professional to steer the company through the large validation project, including helping them attract industry partners and focusing on key market opportunities. This led to several additional partnership discussions with global food leaders. The new hire also crafted the package of business and financial models and began the process of investor outreach, establishing positive relationships and ongoing interest.