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Biographica and Hudson River Biotechnology have partnered to address complex crop trait challenges that conventional breeding methods have failed to solve, starting with tomatoes. By combining Biographica’s gene discovery and design capabilities with Hudson River’s genome-editing and plant regeneration platform, the companies offer a seamless route from identifying trait targets to delivering commercial-ready, edited plants. Their open call invites breeders to submit unsolved trait problems, aiming to advance genome editing beyond well-understood targets and into more difficult, commercially relevant traits. The initial focus is on tomatoes, with plans to expand to other vegetables and soft fruits.

A more sustainable bowl of soup starts with improving grower conditions through investments in sustainable farming practices and technology.

Vylor, the Corteva spin-off focused on advanced seed genetics, has partnered with Belgian biotech Rainbow Crops to develop climate-resilient corn using AI and multiplex gene editing. This collaboration exemplifies Vylor’s new open-innovation strategy through its Vylor Edge investment platform, which aims to integrate external technologies with Vylor’s genetics and commercial capabilities. The partnership not only advances corn trait development but also signals Vylor’s intent to build growth through strategic investments and partnerships with startups and research institutions.

Spain-based Rovensa Next has secured R$45 million in Brazilian government-backed financing from FINEP to accelerate research and development of agricultural biosolutions, reinforcing Brazil’s growing role as a global center for biological crop inputs. The funding supports new biocontrol, bionutrition, and adjuvant products, with Brazil serving both as a major market and a hub for technology development and scaling. The country’s bioinputs sector has expanded rapidly, with significant increases in treated acreage and market value, underscoring the shift of biologicals from niche to mainstream in large-scale agriculture. Rovensa Next’s investments, including a new pilot fermentation plant, aim to connect market opportunities with innovative products that address both local and global agricultural challenges.