Agricultural Bioscience Company and Entrepreneurial Profile System

Transcription

1 UNC-W/Jamie Moncreif NCSU Forestry Department istockphoto.com BioResource International, Inc. North Carolina Biotechnology Center Agricultural Bioscience Company and Entrepreneurial Profile System Growing North Carolina s Ag Biotech Landscape: Accelerating Entrepreneurial Enterprises The North Carolina Agricultural Biotechnology Advisory Council

2 Table of Contents Entrepreneurial Companies and their Technologies are Key Drives of Ag Biotech in North Carolina... 1 Advanced Animal Diagnostics Inc Agile Sciences Inc... 3 Algaen Corp Alrgn Bio Inc BioDeptronix LLC... 6 BioResource International Inc Crop Microclimate Management Inc EntoGenetics Inc Enzerna Biosciences LLC Galaxy Diagnostics Inc Mercury Science Inc Mycorrhiza Biotech LLC Mycosynthetix Inc NanoVector Inc Nova Synthetix Inc Phytonix Corp PhytoPharmacon Inc Piedmont Pharmaceuticals LLC Plant Health Care Inc Precision PlantSciences Inc SoyMeds Inc Technology Crops International Trana Discovery Inc TyraTech Inc Zoion Pharma Inc NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015

3 Entrepreneurial Companies and their Technologies are Key Drives of Ag Biotech in North Carolina Innovation in agriculture, agricultural biotechnology and other sciences are driving a new sector of opportunities for North Carolina. Over 80 agriculture biotechnology companies call North Carolina home. They encompass technologies and products focused on waste remediation, environment, industrial compounds, medicinal compounds as well as traditional shelter, fuel and food. These companies are part of North Carolina s diverse economic sectors of forestry, marine, agriculture, biofuels, medicines, and health. Entrepreneurial agriculture and agricultural biotechnology companies offer an important and exciting path towards a new ag-based bioeconomy. The Agricultural Bioscience Company and Entrepreneurial Profile System (AgBIOCEPS) is a database representing a sampling of entrepreneurial ag biotech companies that have unique technologies in North Carolina. They are seeking various funding, technology partners or licensing opportunities to grow their technologies and companies. The purpose of AgBIOCEPS is to bring these companies to your attention as a potential funder, partner, or capital acquirer. The aggregated value of investment opportunities presented herein is approximately $40 million. Our mission is to promote North Carolina as an ideal place for ag biotech investments and collaborative events. Please contact the companies directly or contact us for more information. Jacob Traverse, MBA Enterprise & Technology Development Director Agricultural Biotechnology [email protected] Amber Niebauer, MBA Program & Resource Development Manager Agricultural Biotechnology [email protected] For the most current version of the AgBIOCEPS portfolio please visit: ncbiotech.org/agbioceps NCBiotech does not endorse, promote or make any representations for investment regarding specific companies in the AgBIOCEPS portfolio. This portfolio is for information only. NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 1

4 Advanced Animal Diagnostics Inc. Advanced Animal Diagnostics (AAD) develops and commercializes diagnostics to detect and manage disease states, reproductive, nutritional and overall health status of production animals. AAD's first product is a diagnostic test for mastitis in dairy cows. AAD develops rapid, on-farm diagnostic tests to improve profitability of livestock production while ensuring an abundant supply of quality animal protein. AAD tests for dairy mastitis, specific pathogens, and has a pipeline applicable to other species. 10 filed, 12 licensed Global. AAD is launching in the US first but looks for partners to expand beyond North America. More than $1 billion globally Earlier, faster, more accurate diagnosis on-farm. One test uses the animal's early immune response to more reliably identify infection in minutes and another detects slowgrowing pathogens faster and more reliably than others. Progressive dairies, vet labs, dairy researchers, milk processors. Partners to develop AAD's rapid pathogen detection system for human (e.g. myco pneumonia test) or other animal applications. Global distribution partners with strong dairy relationships and skilled sales/technical staff. AAD is interested in grant funding or collaborative investment to develop new human or animal test using our two existing technology platforms ready for market. We are also raising a Series C financing. Joy Parr Drach President & CEO 635 Davis Drive, Suite 500 Durham NC (919) [email protected] Founded: 2001 Employment Range: County: Durham NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 2

5 Agile Sciences Inc. Agile Sciences has identified small molecules that inhibit and disperse bacterial biofilms. The company is investigating applications in medicine, agriculture and industry. Superior performance due to fundamental mode of action; low cost per area; ease of use; low/zero environmental impact and low regulatory burden Dr. Christian Melander and Dr. John Cavanagh, professors at North Carolina State University. 9 granted (US 7,897,631; US 7,906,544; US 8,653,124; EP 2,053,290; US 8,278,340; US 8,618,149; US 8,927,029; US 8,367713; US 8,840,912); 5 filed Worldwide $1 billion More effective, environmentally friendly, method for treating crop diseases. Companies with existing bactericidal products Large corporations with existing bactericidal products positioned in the agriculture market. Licensing, grants 1 to 3 years Angela Pollard Director of Research 1791 Varsity Ave., Suite 150 Raleigh NC (919) [email protected] Founded: 2007 County: Wake NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 3

6 Algaen Corp. Algaen is exploring microalgae to develop, produce and market products and technologies for the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and bio-energy industries. Production of AlgaBerry, an edible blue-green alga with various nutritonal benefits for improving humanhealth; and developing a biofuel production system using oil rich microalgae as a feedstock. Self developed with SBIR fundings 6 filed Domestic and International $400 billion Oil and fuel production at an overall lower cost, from a renewable source. Food and nutraceutical companies for AlgaBerry, and big oil companies with capacity to distribute the biofuel Oil companies, power companies, or auto manufacturers Equity investment from VC or other interested parties $2 million dollar for a pilot scale facility and $10 million for a small scale production facility 1 to 3 years Fan Lu Ph.D. Chief Executive Officer 925 W. Northwest Blvd. Winston-Salem NC (336) [email protected] Founded: 2002 County: Forsyth Region: Piedmont Triad NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 4

7 Alrgn Bio Inc. Alrgn Bio provides hypoallergenic peanuts, peanut products, tree nuts and soybeans that have been treated with the company s patented enzymatic process to inactivate allergens. Method to reduce potentially dangerous allergens in peanuts using a food grade enzymatic bath process. Once treated and dried, the peanuts look, feel and taste like untreated peanuts. These peanuts retain all their original nutritional value. The safer peanuts are not intended to be consumed by people with peanut allergies. Instead, the end-consumer will be individuals without peanut allergies. Research from Food Allergy Research & Education shows that every 3 minutes, a food allergy reaction sends someone to the emergency room, with the majority of these caused by accidental exposure to peanuts. We aim to make those accidents less dangerous. Exclusive worldwide license agreement with NC A&T for the Hypo-Allergenic Peanut technology. US Patent No. 8,211,485, B2; Filed: June 6, 2007, Issued: July 3, Pending EP patent application: EP A1, Filed: June 5, 2008, Status: Pending U.S. and International Our process reduces the most common peanut allergens; Arah1, Arah2 by greater than 98%, and Arah 6 by greater than 50%. Producers of candy bars, breakfast cereals, snack bars, food toppings, restaurant chains, peanut flour, peanut milk, peanut butter and spreads (to name a few). Partnerships with peanut growers, ingredient producers, and/or consumer food manufactures. Investor equity or debt financing, and/or research grants Projected capital need for scaling is ~$1,000,000. Potential market size in the billions Ann Russell President Gateway University Research Park, South Campus 2901 E. Lee St., Suite 2400 Greensboro NC (704) [email protected] Founded: 2014 County: Guilford Region: Piedmont Triad NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 5

8 BioDeptronix LLC Biodeptronix develops instruments to sense and monitor toxic chemicals and gases in outdoor and indoor air, as well as in lab-created air samples, using changes in the metabolism and genome expression of living human cells. Instruments for biological sensing, using cells and small organisms such as nematodes, of airborne or soil-derived chemicals that may pose toxic risks to agricultural endeavors. UNC Chapel Hill, Gillings School All technology is kept as trade secrets. Global. The US market sector of academic and government R&D in air pollution is the first market segment we are addressing. $500 million/yr (global) which represents in vitro (cellbased) predictive toxicology. First electronically controlled, portable instrument for sensing airborne pollutants or experimentally prepared airstreams Initial: R&D researchers in academia and government laboratories Long term: Ag companies and farmers None Equity or other cash sources, and continuing to seek grants. Expect to launch products for sale in mid $1 million Christopher Price CEO 200 Commons Way Chapel Hill NC Founded: 2012 County: Orange NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 6

9 BioResource International Inc. BioResource International (BRI) discovers, develops and manufactures enzyme feed additives that increase the digestibility of animal feeds for poultry and swine production. BRI provides natural sustainable, solutions to meet agricultural and industrial challenges. Animal feed enzymes Versazyme and Xylamax improve productivity and profitability in poultry and swine. Valkerase improves poultry feather meal production. The original technology was developed at NC State University and exclusively licensed to BRI. 8 granted (7,915,024; 6,613,505; 6,613,505; 5,712,147; 5,186,961; 5,171,682; 5,063,161; 4,959,311; 4,908,220) North and South America, Europe, Middle East and Asia. The enzyme feed additives market is worth over $1 billion. Scientifically proven proprietary products with improved performance and value over competitive products; products backed by technical expertise, strategic global partners and world class quality standards. Large-scale poultry and swine production companies, feed producers and pre-mix producers and the distributors who sell to them. Seeking to acquire or license in new technologies or partner with innovative companies to develop novel products. Seeking strategic investments and partnerships. 1 to 3 years Giles Shih Ph.D., MBA President and CEO 4222 Emperor Blvd., Suite 460 Durham NC (919) [email protected] Founded: 1999 County: Durham NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 7

10 Crop Microclimate Management Inc. Crop Microclimate Management researches and develops technologies to improve crop productivity by mitigating the impact of environmental stresses. CMM's utilizes plant's biochemistry to improve crop productivity, primarily by reducing the impact of environmental stress. ScreenDuo, product for use in horticultural crops. Photon(R)(g/ha)in all crops. The research pipeline has additional concepts. CMM researched and developed all technology 2 filed Global Billions (U.S. $). Abiotic stress management is a nascent, but rapidly growing new market. Superior performance due to fundamental mode of action; low cost per area; ease of use; low/zero environmental impact and low regulatory burden Crop protection companies (licensing), agricultural distributors and farmers Global or regional crop protection companies and investors Equity investment and licensing agreements $2.5 million to $5 million 1 to 3 years Chuck Kupatt Ph.D. President and R&D Director P.O. Box 178 Apex NC (919) [email protected] Founded: 2006 County: Wake NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 8

11 EntoGenetics Inc. EntoGenetics engineers the production of spider silk at a commercial scale through the genetic transformation of silkworms. Spider silk is a very strong fiber that has applications in the biomedical, defense and textile industries. We engineer spider silk genes into the common silk worm, producing spider silk at commercial scale using established production capacity for silk. 5X tougher than Kevlar Other markets: biomedical scaffolding,tendons; also ropes, composites, and textiles. Garage start-up, now partnering with NCSU and Wake Forest to further enhance IP portfolio. Pilot production facilities established. Main patent filed 2008 in U.S., Europe, and India. 3 additional provisional U.S. patents filed in 2012 Market is world-wide. Some applications may be limited to U.S. due to ITAR restrictions. Five year projection $250,000,000 for the military applications. Five times tougher than Kevlar, bio-compatible, customizable properties, agricultural production, green. Ballistic protection manufacturers/weavers. Biomedical companies. Technical textiles and fashion fabrics manufacturers. Agricultural partners for production: row crop tree farming, insect rearing. Mulberry is the food source, can be grown as a perennial crop with three harvests a year in NC. Rearing facilities such as modern chicken houses, ex-textile facilities. Looking for equity investments, grants/awards, development contracts. $750,000 1 to 3 years David Brigham CEO/Chief Scientist Mt. Holly Road, Building 49 Charlotte NC [email protected] Founded: 2007 County: Mecklenburg Region: Greater Charlotte NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 9

12 Enzerna Biosciences LLC Enzerna Biosciences creates sequence specific RNA processing enzymes capable of modulating RNA expression without permanent alteration of the target gene. These tools will enable precise manipulation of expression for any target of choice. We have and are continuing to develop a suit of site specific RNA based enzymes. Our initial technology is based on enzymes that perform site specific RNA cleavage. This cleavage activity can be targeted to specific organelles and is specific enough to target one out of many related RNA species. We are a university spinout. Patents have been filed for the technologies. International The ability to reduce RNA levels of specific RNAs regardless of which cellular compartment they reside. These engineered enzymes are genetically encoded and can be integrated into the genome of an organism for long term and/or regulated expression. Ag companies, university laboratories, governments. Anyone interested in modifying plant gene expression for any reason. Joseph Ruiz President 4023G Genetic Medicine Building Chapel Hill NC (919) [email protected] Founded: 2014 County: Orange NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 10

13 Galaxy Diagnostics Inc. Galaxy Diagnostics provides molecular diagnostic testing for emerging infectious diseases for both veterinary and human medicine. Test methods are based on technologies developed by scientists at NC State University. Galaxy Diagnostics is an infectious disease diagnostics company located int he Research Triangle, NC. Our core technology is a novel, insect- based growth medium called BAPGM (Bartonella alphproteobacteria Growth Medium). This proprietary medium supports the growth a broad range of fastidious microbes. Our current focus is on medical applications of BAPGM to facilitate the detection of emerging infectious diseases linked to chronic disorders in humans and animals. BAPGM (Bartonella alpha-proteobacteria Medium) was developed and patented by researchers at the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Galaxy Diagnostics holds an exclusive license for all applications. 1 granted (7,115,385) International $130 million Very simply, BAPGM supports the rapid growth of highly fastidious microbes where traditional culture methods fail. For example, medical applications are facilitating the discovery, study and detection of new pathogens in human and animal medicine. Physicians, veterinarians in clinics, universities, and independent reference labs. Research partners in Ag Biotech to explore new applications of BAPGM. Research partners at major medical schools to establish indications for testing. Early stage investment to support product development, marketing, and business expansion. $1.6 million 1 to 3 years Amanda Elam Ph.D. President 7020 Kit Creek Road, Suite 130 Research Triangle Park NC (919) [email protected] Founded: 2007 County: Durham NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 11

14 Mercury Science Inc. Mercury Science develops novel and customized methods of analytical analysis, with expertise in environmental analysis of soil, water and food. Mercury Science develops simple, rapid, low cost assays for the analysis of food, soil and water. The company specializes in environmental immunoassays and producing custom monoclonal antibodies. Current research efforts are on quantitative field tests using electrochemical detection similar to blood glucose meters. The technology is developed in Mercury Science's facility. No patents have been filed as of 1/1/2014. Initial markets will be shellfish testing in the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, and Europe. Shellfish test kits will be marketed internationally. The technology is suitable to a wide range of applications including crop analysis and animal diagnostics. The initial goal is to commercialize 5 products in 2015 and 10 more products in Approximate sales of $150,000 in The number of products and sales can grow exponentially. Mercury Science's technology allows analyses to be performed onsite by persons without advanced training reducing the time and expense of sending samples to a lab for traditional analysis. Initial customers will be commercial shellfish harvesters, university labs, state and federal regulatory agencies. Mercury Science is seeking partners with known market needs that can be filled by utilizing Mercury Science's proprietary technology. Mercury Science is currently seeking grants, awards, and collaborations with small businesses or universities. Thomas Stewart President 2801 Blue Ridge Road, Suite G70 Raleigh NC (866) [email protected] Founded: 1995 County: Wake NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 12

15 Mycorrhiza Biotech LLC Mycorrhiza Biotech develops products and services to improve plant production. They specialize in fungi and allied organisms for diverse applications in agri-business. We have developed patent-pending technology that uses a natural resource - loblolly pine, to cultivate a high-value crop - gourmet truffles, while improving the tree's productivity. Our technology originated from our founders Patents are pending Nearly 1 billion loblolly pine seedlings were sold in the U.S. last year. Loblolly pines are the primary timber product in 14 southern states and in NJ and DE. We will focus our marketing efforts on our home state and the surrounding states. 1 billion dollars Science backs our products. do not have to "take our word" that trees are colonized with the designated fungus. We inoculate our trees using proven protocols. We certify our trees using DNA methods. Timber management companies, state departments of forestry, private land owners, and truffle farmers. Eleven major timber/forest product companies, 50 state departments of forestry, and private sector entities. Someone to support the patent process Mycorrhiza Biotech needs an investment of $250,000 to expand industrial capacity. We will use the funds to purchase equipment to accelerate the seedling production and inoculation process and increase the number of units produced. $250,000 9 months to 1 year Nancy Rosborough Chief Executive Officer 1006 S. Main St. Burlington NC [email protected] Founded: 2006 County: Alamance Region: Piedmont Triad NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 13

16 Mycosynthetix Inc. Mycosynthetix manages a large collection of fungal isolates. Metabolites from these are applied to drug and agrochemical discovery, and enzymes to industrial applications such as biofuel research. Mycosynthetix, Inc. investigates new lead compounds for agriculture and medicine from it's unique fungus library. We have fungi with herbicidal, insecticidal and fungicidal activity. A novel fungal bioherbicide - Mevalocidin - is currently being developed for use in organic farming. The technology, i.e., mevalocidin, originated from a research collaboration between Dow AgroSciences LLC and Mycosynthetix. The intellectual property was exclusively licensed by Mycosynthetix. A patent - 7,393,812 B2 - was issued in July This is a composition of matter patent. The product would be used throughout the U.S. and internationally as a biopesticide. Current best estimates for a new bioherbicide on the market are in the region of $40-70 millions for the U.S. Mevalocidin and the solid state fermentation product containing the herbicide activity are broadly and potently active in greenhouse tests. Current organic herbicides are either organic acids or essential oils, or very specific biopesticides. We anticipate that the end users of Mevalocidin will be environmentally aware organic farmers, including those engaged in no till farming for which there are currently there are no options. Mycosynthetix anticipates that an established strategic partner with an interest in organic farming and the environment would help expedite entry into the marketplace. The development of Mevalocidin has been supported through an SBIR award from the USDA, and our own resources. Cedric Pearce Ph.D. Chief Executive Officer and Chief Scientific Officer 505 Meadowlands Drive, Suite 103 Hillsborough NC (919) [email protected] Founded: 2001 County: Orange NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 14

17 NanoVector Inc. NanoVector is commercializing a plant virus nanoparticle to develop a family of targeted-delivery, small-molecule cancer drugs. NanoVector is commercializing the first biologic-based nanoparticle drug delivery system for the $48B/yr cancer therapeutics market. The NanoVector nanoparticle, the RCNMV plant virus, is a 36nm protein shell that replicates in a tobacco family plant. The unique patent pending nanoparticle drug delivery system was developed by two professors at North Carolina State University (NCSU). One patent has been granted and a second patent has been filed NanoVector will manufacture, market and sell targeted cancer therapeutics worldwide. Visiongain, an independent business information provider, reported that anti-cancer drug sales exceeded $50 billion worldwide in Visiongain also predicted 20 million new cases of cancer worldwide in 2025, compared with 12 million in Albert Bender Chief Executive Officer P.O. Box Raleigh NC (919) [email protected] The biologic is non-toxic, robustly protects its cargo in the blood stream, will not inherently target any cells without external programming, has an automatic switch that opens upon entering a cell, and its naturally replication is low cost. Largest medical society of physicians who specialize in the care of cancer patients and conduct research, numbering more than 25,000 worldwide. NanoVector is seeking large pharma joint development opportunities: to extend IP of existing drugs, to increase efficacy and specificity of new drugs, and/or joint development of new therapeutics. NanoVector is seeking a $3 million equity investment to fund the IND-enabling studies for our first target therapeutic. $3 million 1 to 3 years Founded: 2002 County: Wake NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 15

18 Nova Synthetix Inc. Nova Synthetix is developing and commercializing a nontoxic castor plant that produces a unique fatty acid used as a high-value chemical feedstock. They contract with growers and are developing downstream markets for their castor product. Nova Synthetix was formed to exploit the unique properties of castor (Ricinus communis) using the tools of modern biotechnology to create a safe, non-polluting, renewable, non-food source of high-value chemical feedstocks and biofuels. Nova Synthetix has developed its own proprietary strategy to develop a safer variety of the castor plant. Contributing enabling technologies have been in-licensed or are publicly available. Composition of matter patent application for the safer castor variety (1 application) as well as a methods patent application for modification of the castor genome (1 application). The market for cultivation of improved castor varieties and industrial chemical customers for conventional and modified castor oil is global. Greater than one billion dollars per year. Castor, the most productive oilseed row crop, produces a unique fatty acid in high demand by the chemical industry. A safer castor variety will unleash pent-up demand, generate significant revenue, & establish the company's chemical feedstock platform. for our initial improved castor varieties include seed producers, contract growers, farmers and the animal feed industry. In addition customers of subsequent modified oil product offerings will include the chemicals and biofuels industries. Seed-stage equity investment, convertible debt or loan. $250,000 9 months to 1 year Donald Walters Ph.D. President 2 Davis Drive Durham NC [email protected] Founded: 2012 County: Orange NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 16

19 Phytonix Corp. Phytonix develops and commercializes technologies and manufacturing processes that photosynthetically convert CO2, with solar energy and water, into low-cost chemicals and fuels like n-butanol. Phytonix is developing and commercializing biosafe technology to directly convert carbon dioxide, via photosynthesis, into butanol and pentanol as renewable industrial chemicals and "drop-in" fuels. We are at prototype stage with working transformant cyanobacterial prototypes that convert carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight into n- butanol. We expect to acheive pilot production stage in Our biomass-free biobutanol and biosafety technologies were developed by Dr. James Lee, who now serves as a professor at Old Dominion University. Our technology/ip is globally patent pending. We received a USPTO "Notice of Allowance" in January, A patent for our IP has also recently been granted in South Africa. International. Our organism and biosafety guard patents are pending in the U.S., European Union, and other countries. Ultimate target market is the $900+ billion global motor gasoline market. Our immediate target market is the existing global $10B industrial chemcial n-butanol market, growing at close to a 15% compound annual growth rate. Bruce Dannenberg Founder and Chief Executive Officer One Town Square Blvd., Suite 315 Asheville NC (828) [email protected] Biomass-free butanol production is less costly; biosafety technology and other IP can be sublicensed separately; carbon dioxide is the feedstock; photosynthetic cyanobacteria are engineered via synthetic biology to secrete biobutanol and biopentanol. Oil and chemical companies. Organism and phytoconverter teams are ready for cont. development funding. We project that each commercial facility will produce 50M gallons of butanol/yr structured as joint ventures with strategic partners. Seeking capital via a final angel round and a syndicated Series A round and flexible regarding the financing structure. Five key componenents of our core technology/ip could be sub-licensed. A final $775K angel investment round and a follow-on syndicated $6M Series A round for continued development and commercialization. 1 to 3 years Founded: 2009 County: Buncombe Region: West NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 17

20 PhytoPharmacon Inc. PhytoPharmacon derives natural ingredients from botanical sources and specializes in development, from agronomy through pilot scale processing, and high-volume supply of natural products for the food and cosmetic industries. PhytoPharmacon is a natural ingredients company deriving its products from novel botanical sources. The company has developed a 25,000 strong natural products library, allowing it to find and develop novel extracts for highly functional ingredients. The basis of the business is mainly trade secrets in natural product science but 2 patents have been issued with an additional 5 patents filed. Our customers for natural ingredients are global, but agriculture and chemistry operations are based in US. Markets are large food, cosmetic and some pharmaceutical companies looking for novel highly functional natural ingredients. These markets are very large and the current trend toward natural and healthy has caused them to be fast growing. Ven Subbiah Founder and President 158 Hein Drive Garner NC (919) [email protected] Our large library of extracts attracts big name food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical customers allowing PPI to develop the agronomy and extraction chemistry in an exclusive supply relationship. PhytoPharmacon has more than a dozen active customer programs with top tier consumer and ingredient companies, mainly in the food and cosmetic space. PhytoPharmacon is seeking equity and/or debt funding to complete scaling and become cash positive through sales of our initial product. PhytoPharmacon will need $6 million over 3 years to achieve a cash positive position as it continues to scale in year 4. The investment will mainly go toward Cost of Goods, but current infrastructure will be expanded. Founded: 2005 County: Wake NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 18

21 Piedmont Pharmaceuticals LLC Piedmont Pharmaceuticals develops and licenses human-health and animal-health therapeutics with a focus on parasitology and drug delivery systems. Actively developing products and drug delivery systems for animal health. Existing technologies and products include a companion animal soft chew medicine delivery platform, a fly control product for horses, and a human head lice product. Company innovation Multiple patents filed and issued. International $5 billion globally Improving compliance through novel delivery mechanisms for both generics and new actives, as well as development of new products to target the largest companion disease areas. Major to mid-sized pharmaceutical companies R&D, manufacturing and distribution partners Eric Barnett M.D. Executive Vice President, Business Development and Marketing 204 Muirs Chapel Road, Suite 200 Greensboro NC (336) [email protected] Founded: 2001 Employment Range: County: Guilford Region: Piedmont Triad NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 19

22 Plant Health Care Inc. Plant Health Care provides novel biological products and technologies to promote plant health and increase crop yields. Biostimulants for the agriculture sector Harpin technology discovered at Cornell University Numerous patents International $2 - $4 billion Technical performance. Biological in nature. Ag companies, farmers Strategic partners in the ag sector Paul Schmidt Chief Executive Officer 2626 Glenwood Ave., Suite 350 Raleigh NC (919) x 100 [email protected] Founded: 1995 County: Wake NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 20

23 Precision PlantSciences Inc. Precision PlantSciences develops Precision Biosciences' technology, called Directed Nuclease Editor, to site-specifically insert or remove traits at a user-defined location in the genome of row crops, biofuel feedstocks and other plants. Precision PlantSciences is a leading plant genome editing company that exclusively controls its proprietary ARCUS editing technology. ARCUS allows us the ability to precisely delete, insert, or change the DNA sequence at specific locations in the genome of a plant. Precision PlantSciences is a fully-owned subsidiary of Precision BioSciences and utilizes technology that was developed, in part, at Duke University. Granted U.S. patents: 8,021,867; 8,119,381; 8,143,016; 8,143,015; 8,119,361; 8,113,697; 8,124,369, 8,148,098; 8,163,514; 8,304,222; 8,338,157; 8,377,674; 8,445,251. Granted EP patents: 2,357,226; 1,945,762; 2,215,223 Granted AU patent: Global The specificity of ARCUS uniquely allow us to directly manipulate existing plant genes to create novel traits, insert traits into desired locations in the plant genome, or knock out existing genes without introducing any foreign material into the plant. Current partners include DuPont/Pioneer, Bayer, and several other large and small agbio companies. Licensing/Partnering 1 to 3 years Matthew Kane Chief Executive Officer 302 E. Pettigrew St., Dibrell Warehouse, Suite A-100 Durham NC (919) [email protected] Founded: 2012 Employment Range: County: Durham NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 21

24 SoyMeds Inc. SoyMeds is developing a seed-based expression platform that enables production of protein-based targets that can be used to diagnose and treat disease and address other unmet needs in the healthcare industry. A practical and sustainable expression system for production of cost-effective recombinant proteins. System is ideal for expression of large/complex proteins that are recalcitrant to expression in existing systems. Benefits include safety, low COGs, extended stability, simplified purification, and separation of production and purification processes. Technology has been used to produce vaccines, oral therapeutics and diagnostics. Products in development include recombinant human thyroglobulin (for diagnostic applications and medical devices) and a myelin fusion protein (for use as an oral therapeutic to halt progression of multiple sclerosis). Technology is also ideal for production of recombinant proteins coming off patent, therapeutics for treating orphan diseases, shelf-stable vaccines for use in underdeveloped countries, and bioremediation. Spin out of the UNC Charlotte Department of Biology. 1 granted and 4 filed. International Millions to billions, depending on individual products. Low costs for production & purification, expression of difficult and recalcitrant proteins, simplified purification if needed, potential for oral therapeutic formulations, long term storage w/o need for cold-chain, separation of production & manufacture. Pharmaceutical companies, diagnostic reagent/kit manufacturers, life sciences companies, recombinant protein/enzyme manufactures, government entities. Industrial/pharmaceutical/diagnostic partners to aid with development of thyroglobulin for use in diagnostic kits and a novel medical device, and MBP fusion targeting protein as an oral therapeutic capable of halting progression of multiple sclerosis. Equity and partnership financing to move lead products forward. $100,000 to $500,000 per year 1 to 3 years Kenneth Piller Ph.D. President and Co-Founder Dembridge Drive Davidson NC (704) [email protected] Founded: 2005 County: Mecklenburg Region: Greater Charlotte NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 22

25 Technology Crops International TCI designs, evaluates and develops specialty plant-derived oils for food, chemical, dietary supplement and personal care uses. The company manages the supply chain from "soil to oil," providing traceability, consistent demand and quality control. A new annual oilseed crop rich in SDA omega 3 and GLA omega 6 fatty acid, suitable for human and animal nutrition and price competitive with alternative existing sources. Initial regulatory and clinical verification work is complete. Through a private sector and NGO collaboration in the UK. Mostly developed in-house. We have chosen other vehicles for intellectual property protection. International. Initially North America and EU, followed by Asia. $3 billion Producing the highest level of biologically available omega 3's from a natural and sustainable plant source. It is envisaged this will capture significant market share from both flax and marine oils. Full traceability from soil to oil. Dietary supplement manufacturers, food ingredient and food product manufacturers, animal feed manufacturers. Local growers, oil users and researchers. Grant / award $200,000 1 to 3 years Andrew Hebard Chief Executive Officer and President 7996 N. Point Blvd., Suite 100 Winston-Salem NC (336) [email protected] Founded: 2003 County: Forsyth Region: Piedmont Triad NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 23

26 Trana Discovery Inc. Trana Discovery provides a proprietary drug discovery technology platform that enables its partners to discover new treatments of bacterial, viral and fungal infectious diseases in crops, animals and humans. Technology for discovering new agents to treat bacterial, viral and fungal diseases. The Technology by Trana Discovery can identify new classes of anti-infectives faster and more efficiently than producing another generation of older antimicrobials. Proprietary high-throughput screening assays identify compounds that can inhibit the target pathogen s ability to use transfer RNA essential for propagation. Our interests include the treatment of troublesome pathogens in crop science and animals. Licensing opportunities are available for exclusive rights to new classes of antimicrobials. The technology was invented by biochemists at NC State University and the Technical University of Poland. We have licensed this technology from both Universities and have also expanded the technology base to additional pathogens. Several patents granted (e.g. 7,598,040), licensed (6,461,815; 6,962,785) and filed in the US and internationally. International $1 billion plus Kendyle Woodard Business Development Kildaire Farm Road Cary NC [email protected] A novel class of antibiotics, antifungals and antivirals for the treatment of pathogens including pathogens resistant to currently available agents, identifying new compounds with the ability to block protein synthesis in pathogens. Crop science and animal health companies, pharmaceutical companies, academic institutions and other organizations for use in their compound libraries Agricultural and veterinary medicine companies willing to invest in discovered compounds and discovery assay. Our initial assays to discover new antimicrobials for HIV and Staph aureus are also available for licensing. Licensing and/or acquisition and collaborative efforts in pursuing specific pathogens as in HLB, Asian Soybean Rust or TR4 (banana leaf-wilt fungus) Yes, and the amount is to be determined through negotiations with interested parties. Founded: 2000 County: Wake NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 24

27 TyraTech Inc. TyraTech develops natural pesticides that are safe for humans and animals, by targeting invertebrate-specific receptors. We are a green-tech, life-sciences company with a patented platform to control insects and parasites without synthetic pesticides. Products offer high level of safety and efficacy in a variety of markets: personal care, animal health and agriculture. Vanderbilt University 27 granted U.S. and international patents (Assignee: TyraTech); approximately 30 pending U.S. and international applications Global Management estimates in excess of $10 billion across personal care, animal health and agricultural markets Patented, efficacious, safe, non-toxic, free of synthetic pesticides, rapid regulatory pathway Consumers, farmers, government entities, agricultural companies, animal production facilities Distribution, licensing, research and development We are a growth stage company. As part of our ongoing business and financial planning processes, we continually evaluate future growth financing needs, options, and sources. Bruno Jactel Chief Executive Officer 5151 McCrimmon Parkway, Suite 275 Morrisville NC (919) [email protected] Founded: 2004 County: Wake NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 25

28 Zoion Pharma Inc. Zoion Pharma develops drugs for veterinary disorders. Zoion's lead product is an epithelial sodium channel blocker compound to treat canine keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) or dry eye. Zoion Pharma is a new bio-pharmaceutical research and development venture organized with the goal of re-purposing human pharmaceuticals for veterinary use, taking advantage of the fact that veterinary FDA approval requirements are much less burdensome. Zoion s initial focus is canine ocular surface disease, primarily keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) and our lead program is ZP-1 (P-1046) sourced from Parion Sciences, Inc., Durham, NC. A provisional patent filing has been made for ZP-1. The commercial opportunity for a novel veterinary KCS product could be substantial. The overall incidence of KCS is estimated at 5%, resulting in a potential target market of 4m animals in the US and a similar number in Europe. The current US market value for canine KCS prescription and OTC products is estimated to exceed $200 million. The only currently approved canine KCS therapy is Intervet s Optimmune (0.2% cyclosporine ophthalmic ointment), though the product has now been withdrawn due to supply issues. The market is served by numerous unregulated compounding pharmacy products. Veterinarians and canine owners. We will be seeking funding from venture capitalist with an interest in animal health, corporate venture funds, and/or corporate partners to fund our programs. We need approximately $6 million to achieve product approval through the entire development process. $6 million Gregory Mossinghoff Executive Vice President and Chief Business Officer 2108 Summer Azure Way Raleigh NC (919) [email protected] Founded: 2011 County: Durham NCBiotech AgBIOCEPS, April 2015, Page 26

29 Notes

30 istockphoto.com Syngenta Steve McKeand/treeimprovement.org UNC-W/Jamie Moncreif NCBiotech is a private, non-profit corporation supported by the N.C. General Assembly. Its mission is to provide long-term economic and societal benefits to North Carolina by supporting biotechnology research, business, education and strategic policy statewide. 15 T.W. Alexander Drive P.O. Box Research Triangle Park, NC ncbiotech.org/agbioceps Asheville Charlotte Greenville Research Triangle Park Wilmington Winston-Salem _CA 4/4/2013-copy4-4/13