Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Ospraie Ag Science LLC (OAS) is a venture capital firm founded in 1999 by Dwight Anderson, based in Rye, New York. The firm focuses on enhancing agricultural productivity while minimizing environmental impact. OAS leverages over 25 years of experience in agriculture investments across public and private markets. As of March 2021, OAS manages approximately $137.9 million in assets under management (AUM) and has a portfolio of 17 companies.
Initially launched as part of Ospraie Management LLC, OAS has evolved to specialize in agtech investments. The firm aims to support companies that improve profitability and sustainability in farming. OAS has established a reputation for backing innovations that help farmers 'do more with less,' particularly in the areas of biological products and precision agriculture.
Ospraie Ag Science invests in agricultural technology companies that develop solutions for crop protection, pest management, and sustainable farming practices. Their investment strategy emphasizes biological products, precision agriculture, and technologies that enhance crop yields while reducing chemical inputs. OAS targets companies at various stages, including pre-seed, seed, seed+, Series A, Series B, and growth equity.
The firm operates primarily in the United States but maintains a global portfolio reach. OAS's investment thesis focuses on innovations that help farmers achieve greater efficiency and sustainability. They are particularly interested in sustainable crop inputs, controlled environment agriculture, and soil diagnostics, aiming to back companies that align with these themes.
Ospraie Ag Science's portfolio includes 17 notable companies, each contributing to advancements in agricultural technology:
Dwight Anderson: Managing Partner and Co-Founder. Dwight has a deep background in agriculture and investment, having launched the original Ospraie Fund in 1999 in partnership with Tudor Investment Corporation.
Carl Casale: Senior Partner. Carl has 26 years of experience at Monsanto, where he rose to the position of CFO. He brings extensive agribusiness operating experience to Ospraie Ag Science.
Julie Overbeck: Operating Partner. Julie has a 17-year career at Eli Lilly and served as President of Remington Seeds, leading international expansion efforts. She holds board seats on OAS and ORA portfolio companies.
Thomas Wiltrout: Board Member. Thomas contributes his expertise to the board, enhancing the firm's strategic direction.
Bob Woods: Board Member. Bob provides valuable insights and guidance to the firm and its portfolio companies.
Jason Mraz: Co-founder and President. Jason plays a key role in the firm's operations and strategic initiatives.
To pitch Ospraie Ag Science, founders should use the contact email provided on their website: investor.relations@ospraie.com. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the technology, market opportunity, and team qualifications. Ospraie Ag Science prefers detailed information that highlights the startup's potential impact on agricultural productivity and sustainability.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not strictly necessary.
In October 2024, Ospraie Ag Science participated in a $37 million Series B funding round for AgroSpheres, a company focused on bioinsecticides and biopesticides. This investment highlights Ospraie's ongoing commitment to supporting innovative agricultural technologies.
As of March 2021, Ospraie Ag Science reported managing approximately $137.9 million in assets under management, reflecting the firm's growth and active engagement in the agtech sector.
What are Ospraie Ag Science's investment criteria?
Ospraie Ag Science focuses on agricultural technology companies that provide innovative solutions for crop protection, pest management, and sustainable farming practices. They invest in companies at various stages, from pre-seed to growth equity, with a strong emphasis on biological products and precision agriculture.
How can founders pitch to Ospraie Ag Science?
Founders can pitch to Ospraie Ag Science through their website at ospraieagscience.com. They recommend including detailed information about the technology, market potential, and team in the pitch deck.
What makes Ospraie Ag Science different from other investors?
Ospraie Ag Science distinguishes itself through its deep industry expertise and active engagement in funding rounds. Their focus on sustainable agricultural innovations and their extensive network in agtech provide unique advantages for portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of Ospraie Ag Science's investments?
The firm primarily invests in the United States but maintains a global portfolio reach, allowing them to support innovative agricultural solutions worldwide.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Ospraie Ag Science invests across a range of stages, with check sizes varying based on the stage of the company and the specific needs of the investment. They participate in funding rounds from pre-seed to growth equity.
What kind of post-investment support does Ospraie Ag Science provide?
Ospraie Ag Science adds value to its portfolio companies through deep industry expertise, strategic partnerships, and active engagement in funding rounds to support growth and development.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.