Germany’s DUDE CHEM has secured €6.5 million in seed funding to bolster sustainable pharmaceutical production. Co-led by Vorwerk Ventures and b2venture, the round also saw contributions from Frontline, Borski Fund, Auxxo, and Push Ventures. The Berlin-based startup will focus on expanding its scientific team and reintroducing its first product. This move aims to secure the supply chain for a leading European generic drug producer.
Company’s background
The global pharma industry, valued at €5.5 trillion, generates significantly more emissions than the automotive sector. DUDE CHEM’s innovative processes promise to cut CO2 emissions by up to 40% and reduce waste by up to 70%. By leveraging a network of manufacturers in Europe, the company aims to revolutionize the pharma-chemical industry with greener, more cost-efficient methods.
Revolutionising the pharma industry
Founded in 2021 by a team including Sonja Jost, Tino Mundt, Dr. Henriette Nowothnick, and Dr. Mathis Han, DUDE CHEM brings critical infrastructure back to Europe. Their patented manufacturing processes, developed from decades of European research, are poised to make significant environmental and cost-saving impacts. The team’s background in green chemistry and chemical data science has already seen successful market validations of their green recipes.
“Our ambition is to make Europe a major hub for chemical-pharmaceutical production again and secure critical infrastructure,” said Sonja Jost, co-founder and CEO of DUDE CHEM. With a focus on sustainability and efficiency, DUDE CHEM aims to strengthen Western supply chains and promote a sustainable reindustrialisation.
Backing the venture, Dr. Dominik Steinkühler from Vorwerk Ventures praised DUDE CHEM’s combination of chemical expertise and innovative technology. Anna Bosch of b2venture highlighted the team’s experience and determination. Both investors recognize the urgent need for sustainable practices in the chemical industry, especially in light of recent supply chain crises.
In a time when the chemical sector’s traditional methods produce vast amounts of waste and inefficiency, DUDE CHEM stands out for its commitment to revolutionizing the industry. The company’s efforts align with a broader shift towards sustainable and local production, promising a greener future for the pharmaceutical sector.
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