BioMara, a UK-based seaweed startup, has secured $150,000 in new funding to advance the production of fucoidan, a bioactive compound extracted from brown seaweed, in response to rising global demand.

The investment will support BioMara's efforts to scale its innovative extraction process, which maximizes seaweed's value by isolating multiple products from a single biomass input, it said.

This approach reduces waste and enhances scalability, aligning with industry demands for sustainable and cost-effective seaweed ingredient production, according to the firm.

"This funding comes at a pivotal time as we build relationships with customers who are eager to incorporate our Seafibrex high-fiber ingredient as well as our Thalivra and Revyntra fucoidan extracts into their products," said Jay Dignan, CEO of BioMara.

"Our focus now is on building momentum -- expanding production and increasing sales, which will underpin the product's success in the food and wellness markets."

In addition to boosting production, the funding will support clinical research to further substantiate the health benefits of BioMara's fucoidan, known for its immune support, gut health, and anti-inflammatory properties. The company said it is collaborating with independent laboratories to build scientific evidence, aiming to attract food and wellness brands seeking natural and functional ingredients.

Since its inception, BioMara has raised over $1.4 million in combined private investment and grant funding.