AmphiStar has secured €6 million in funding to accelerate the industrialization of its innovative biosurfactants derived from waste, positioning itself as a leader in the sustainable surfactant market.

Investment Overview

AmphiStar, a Ghent-based start-up, has successfully secured €6 million in funding from prominent investors, including the European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF), Qbic III, and Flanders Future Tech Fund (FFTF). This investment marks a significant milestone for the company, facilitating the acceleration of its biosurfactants' industrialization and the expansion of its team. To navigate this growth phase, Pierre-Franck Valentin has been appointed as CEO, guiding the company toward full commercial deployment and establishing plans for a 1,000-tonne annual production facility.

Target Company Details

Founded in 2021 as a spin-off from Ghent University and the Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant, AmphiStar focuses on producing microbial biosurfactants derived from waste and side streams associated with the agri-food industry. This approach not only mitigates competition with food production but also employs mild biological processes analogous to brewing beer. The firm offers a diverse portfolio of biobased glycolipids, including sophorolipids, which serve as cost-effective, sustainable alternatives for the cleaning and cosmetic product industries, aiming to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of various applications.

Industry Insights in Belgium

The surfactants industry plays a crucial role in many everyday products, encompassing personal care items, cleaning agents, and even construction materials. Globally, over 20 milli