Vyld Raises Seven-Figure Sum for Sustainable Period Products
Vyld, a startup dedicated to developing sustainable and marine biodegradable period products made from seaweed, has successfully closed its seed round, raising a seven-figure sum. The funding comes from a variety of sources, including the German government, the European Union, and Vyld’s own sustainable financing instrument, the Future Profit Partnership Agreement (FPPA). This injection of capital will allow Vyld to launch its flagship product, the Kelpon, the world’s first tampon made from seaweed. Additionally, the funds will support the development of the Algaeverse portfolio for both B2B and B2C markets.
Future Profit Partnership Agreement: Vyld’s Sustainable Financing Instrument
One of the key features that sets Vyld apart from other startups is its unique sustainable financing instrument, the Future Profit Partnership Agreement (FPPA). This instrument, developed by Vyld CEO Ines Schiller, combines the advantages of equity and debt capital, providing an appropriate return for investors while ensuring Vyld’s independence. Instead of a traditional equity round, Vyld offers a profit share, with the agreement ending as soon as the desired return is achieved. This aligns with Vyld’s principles of steward ownership, self-determination, and purpose orientation. It ensures that Vyld cannot become a speculative asset, and voting rights are held by individuals directly connected to the company and its mission. Profits are reinvested, used to cover capital costs, or donated.
Vyld: A Non-Exit-Oriented Startup Focused on Long-Term Sustainability
Unlike many venture capital-backed startups, Vyld is not driven by the goal of a lucrative exit. Instead, the company operates under a model of steward ownership and focuses on long-term sustainability. Ines Schiller, Vyld’s CEO, emphasizes the importance of challenging the conventional models of ownership, power, and financing. By promoting creation over consumption, quality over quantity, and a triple bottom line over hypergrowth, Vyld aims to create a sustainable and impactful business model.
Vyld’s Mezzanine Financial Instrument Ensures Independence and Purpose
In developing the FPPA, Ines Schiller leveraged her financial expertise as a renowned feature film producer to create a mezzanine financial instrument for Vyld. This instrument strikes a balance between equity and debt capital, providing investors with a reasonable return while maintaining Vyld’s independence. The FPPA allows Vyld to raise new investments outside of traditional equity rounds, further enhancing the company’s financial independence and self-determination. This approach is particularly appealing to investors who seek to invest their money in a regenerative and sustainable manner and question the maximum profit-driven principles.
Vyld’s Investment Enables Development of Radically Sustainable Seaweed Products
The recent funding raised by Vyld will fuel the further development of their range of sustainable period products made from seaweed. Building on the success of a consumer trial of the Kelpon tampon, which involved over 100 participants, Vyld is now entering the pilot phase of their Diaper project, known as Dyper. This project is a collaboration with Goldeimer and involves the development of a compostable diaper with an algae core, eliminating the use of plastics and superabsorbents. In a pilot project with 50 households, the Dyper will be tested for its suitability in everyday use and as a source of humus fertilizer. The used diapers will be composted under controlled conditions, and a small forest will be planted using the resulting fertilizer, creating what Vyld calls the “diaper forest.”
By securing this significant investment, Vyld is not only bringing innovative and sustainable period products to the market but also pushing the boundaries of circularity and eco-friendly solutions. With their commitment to long-term sustainability and the development of groundbreaking seaweed-based products, Vyld is set to make a lasting impact in the menstrual and baby care industries.
Analyst comment
Positive news:
Vyld has successfully closed its seed round, raising a seven-figure sum from various sources, including the German government and the European Union. This funding will allow Vyld to launch its flagship product, the Kelpon tampon made from seaweed, and support the development of their Algaeverse portfolio. Vyld’s unique sustainable financing instrument, the FPPA, ensures independence and aligns with their principles of steward ownership. With their focus on long-term sustainability and innovative seaweed-based products, Vyld is poised to make a lasting impact in the market.
Analyst’s statement:
With the significant investment secured, Vyld is well-positioned to launch its sustainable period products and expand its portfolio. The market for eco-friendly solutions in the menstrual and baby care industries is growing, and Vyld’s commitment to long-term sustainability and groundbreaking products will likely attract consumers and investors alike. Expect increased market share and further growth for Vyld in these industries.
