# Bontia Bio

Startup profile on Capital Atlas: https://capitalatlas.ai/startups/bontia-bio

- Industry: Biotechnology
- Headquarters: Wellington, New Zealand
- Website: www.bontiabio.com
- Total disclosed funding: $0.7M
- Latest round: Seed (Mar 26, 2025)
- Investors on record: 2

## About

Bontia Bio is a biotechnology firm focused on developing innovative animal health solutions through natural microbial bioactive compounds, significantly enhancing pet care and veterinary practices.

Founded in 2024 by Matt Nicholson (CEO), and Emily Parker, in Wellington, New Zealand, Bontia Bio specializes in animal health solutions. It has engaged in two notable deals, with the most recent funding round being a Grant of NZD 750,000 in March 2025 from Callaghan Innovation. The total funding raised amounts to NZD 1.250 mn.

Bontia Bio specializes in developing innovative solutions for animal health, particularly focusing on a proprietary range of bioactive compounds derived from natural microbial sources. The company's flagship product is an orally delivered medication designed to treat and prevent flea and tick infestations in companion animals, a critical issue for pet owners and veterinarians alike. The product is notable for its potent efficacy against invertebrate pests while demonstrating no toxicity to mammals, positioning it as a safer alternative to traditional treatments. Bontia Bio employs its patented Fungal Factories™ synthetic biology platform to access and enhance these natural compounds, thereby ensuring sustainable production methods. The primary customer base includes veterinary clinics, pet supply retailers, and direct consumers in various geographical markets, notably in regions with significant companion animal populations, such as North America and Europe.

Bontia Bio's revenue model is structured around direct sales of its animal health products, specifically targeting veterinary practices and pet supply retailers. Transactions primarily occur through B2B relationships, where veterinary clinics procure the flagship flea and tick treatment for resale to pet owners, ensuring a steady demand from end users. The company may also engage in partnerships with distributors to expand its market reach and facilitate wider access to its products. While specific pricing plans for the medications are not disclosed, it is expected that they align with industry standards for veterinary pharmaceuticals. This strategic approach allows Bontia Bio to establish a robust market presence while addressing critical needs within the animal health sector.

In March 2025, Bontia Bio raised NZD 750,000 of grant funding from new investor Callaghan Innovation, which is part of a larger NZD 1 million seed and grant funding. The company will utilize this funding to support the development of its product. Plans are in place for upcoming product launches designed to enhance animal health, with specific timelines expected to be announced in the near future. Bontia Bio is also targeting new market expansions into regions with growing pet populations, particularly in Europe and Asia, aiming to establish a presence by late 2026.

## Funding rounds

- Seed, Mar 26, 2025, $0.7M — Sprout, Booster Innovation Fund

## Investors

- Sprout (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/sprout) — Seed
- Booster Innovation Fund — Seed