Insects to the Rescue: How Volare is Revolutionizing Protein Production
May 28, 2025, 4:13 pm
Location: Finland, Mainland Finland, Riihikoski
Employees: 1-10
Founded date: 2021
Total raised: $834.1K
In a world grappling with food security, a Finnish startup is turning the tide. Volare, based in Pori, has just secured €26 million in funding to build a groundbreaking facility. This isn't just any facility; it's designed to be the most efficient protein production plant on the planet. The goal? To transform food industry waste into high-quality insect protein, oil, and fertilizers.
Founded in 2021, Volare is a beacon of innovation. The company harnesses the power of the black soldier fly, a tiny insect with a big role. These insects are nature's recycling champions, converting food byproducts into valuable resources. While many of these byproducts end up in landfills or incinerators, Volare sees potential. They upcycle waste into sustainable protein, creating a circular food system.
The recent funding round included contributions from various investors, including Maki.vc and the Finnish Climate Fund. This financial backing will help Volare scale its operations and advance its technology. The company is not just about profit; it’s about sustainability. The new facility, set to break ground in 2025, will embody a zero-waste, fossil-free process.
Europe faces a pressing challenge. Currently, the region is only 34% self-sufficient in protein concentrates. This dependency on imports leaves the food system vulnerable to disruptions. Volare aims to change that. By producing protein locally, they strengthen Europe’s food resilience. Their model reduces waste and supports regional agriculture, making it a win-win for the environment and local economies.
The black soldier fly is at the heart of Volare's mission. This insect is a natural bioreactor, efficiently converting waste into protein. Volare’s proprietary technology enhances this process, achieving a 30% reduction in energy use during processing. This efficiency is a game-changer in the insect technology sector.
Volare's products are already making waves in various markets. They have gained traction in aquafeed, pet food, and poultry feed. These sustainable ingredients offer a viable alternative to traditional, environmentally taxing sources like fishmeal and soy. The company’s approach not only addresses protein needs but also minimizes the ecological footprint of food production.
The new facility, Volare 01, is designed for scalability. It will produce protein equivalent to the yield of 200 million Baltic herrings annually. This output represents about 18% of Finland’s total commercial fish catch in protein terms. The facility will serve as a launchpad for future expansions across Finland and Northern Europe.
Volare's leadership is also evolving. Jarna Hyvönen, previously the Chief Commercial Officer, steps into the role of CEO. She brings a wealth of experience in commercial strategy. Meanwhile, Tuure Parviainen, the co-founder and former CEO, transitions to Chief Science Officer. He will focus on advancing the company’s core technology and overseeing the new facility's development.
The backing from Skretting, a global leader in aquafeed, ensures a steady demand for Volare’s products. This offtake agreement is crucial for the company’s growth. It provides a safety net as they scale operations and refine their technology.
The implications of Volare's work extend beyond Finland. As the world grapples with climate change and food insecurity, innovative solutions are essential. Volare's model offers a glimpse into a sustainable future. By turning waste into valuable resources, they challenge conventional food production methods.
Insects may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about food sources. However, as Volare demonstrates, they are a key player in the protein revolution. This Finnish startup is not just feeding the world; it’s redefining how we think about food production.
The journey ahead is promising. With a solid funding base and a clear vision, Volare is poised to lead the charge in sustainable protein production. Their commitment to a circular food system could inspire similar initiatives worldwide.
As the global population continues to grow, the demand for protein will only increase. Volare’s innovative approach could be the answer to a pressing question: How do we feed the world sustainably? The answer lies in the humble black soldier fly.
In conclusion, Volare is more than a biotech company; it’s a pioneer in the quest for sustainable food solutions. With their new facility on the horizon, they are set to make waves in the protein industry. The future of food may very well be insect-based, and Volare is leading the way. The world is watching, and the stakes have never been higher.
Founded in 2021, Volare is a beacon of innovation. The company harnesses the power of the black soldier fly, a tiny insect with a big role. These insects are nature's recycling champions, converting food byproducts into valuable resources. While many of these byproducts end up in landfills or incinerators, Volare sees potential. They upcycle waste into sustainable protein, creating a circular food system.
The recent funding round included contributions from various investors, including Maki.vc and the Finnish Climate Fund. This financial backing will help Volare scale its operations and advance its technology. The company is not just about profit; it’s about sustainability. The new facility, set to break ground in 2025, will embody a zero-waste, fossil-free process.
Europe faces a pressing challenge. Currently, the region is only 34% self-sufficient in protein concentrates. This dependency on imports leaves the food system vulnerable to disruptions. Volare aims to change that. By producing protein locally, they strengthen Europe’s food resilience. Their model reduces waste and supports regional agriculture, making it a win-win for the environment and local economies.
The black soldier fly is at the heart of Volare's mission. This insect is a natural bioreactor, efficiently converting waste into protein. Volare’s proprietary technology enhances this process, achieving a 30% reduction in energy use during processing. This efficiency is a game-changer in the insect technology sector.
Volare's products are already making waves in various markets. They have gained traction in aquafeed, pet food, and poultry feed. These sustainable ingredients offer a viable alternative to traditional, environmentally taxing sources like fishmeal and soy. The company’s approach not only addresses protein needs but also minimizes the ecological footprint of food production.
The new facility, Volare 01, is designed for scalability. It will produce protein equivalent to the yield of 200 million Baltic herrings annually. This output represents about 18% of Finland’s total commercial fish catch in protein terms. The facility will serve as a launchpad for future expansions across Finland and Northern Europe.
Volare's leadership is also evolving. Jarna Hyvönen, previously the Chief Commercial Officer, steps into the role of CEO. She brings a wealth of experience in commercial strategy. Meanwhile, Tuure Parviainen, the co-founder and former CEO, transitions to Chief Science Officer. He will focus on advancing the company’s core technology and overseeing the new facility's development.
The backing from Skretting, a global leader in aquafeed, ensures a steady demand for Volare’s products. This offtake agreement is crucial for the company’s growth. It provides a safety net as they scale operations and refine their technology.
The implications of Volare's work extend beyond Finland. As the world grapples with climate change and food insecurity, innovative solutions are essential. Volare's model offers a glimpse into a sustainable future. By turning waste into valuable resources, they challenge conventional food production methods.
Insects may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about food sources. However, as Volare demonstrates, they are a key player in the protein revolution. This Finnish startup is not just feeding the world; it’s redefining how we think about food production.
The journey ahead is promising. With a solid funding base and a clear vision, Volare is poised to lead the charge in sustainable protein production. Their commitment to a circular food system could inspire similar initiatives worldwide.
As the global population continues to grow, the demand for protein will only increase. Volare’s innovative approach could be the answer to a pressing question: How do we feed the world sustainably? The answer lies in the humble black soldier fly.
In conclusion, Volare is more than a biotech company; it’s a pioneer in the quest for sustainable food solutions. With their new facility on the horizon, they are set to make waves in the protein industry. The future of food may very well be insect-based, and Volare is leading the way. The world is watching, and the stakes have never been higher.