Leuven, July 1st 2025
Animab, a leader in the development of pioneering oral antibody solutions for unmet needs in livestock farming, announced today the successful closing of a €10 million Series B funding round. AIF co-led the round together with PMV and QBIC III, thereby supporting the European commercialization of Nanoprotec®, an effective and antibiotic-free alternative for protection against ETEC in piglets, and the further expansion of Animab’s product pipeline.
Animab seizes momentum following exclusive distribution agreement
The financing round follows shortly after Animab’s exclusive distribution agreement for Nanoprotec® with Huvepharma. In addition to AIF, which is committing to a new investment of €2.6 million, QBIC and PMV, the financing round was supported by the other existing investors Seventure Partners, V-Bio Ventures, and VIB. Anacura was also welcomed as a new investor.
“This successful round is the result of aligned leadership, longstanding trust from our partners, and a shared commitment to combating antimicrobial resistance through animal-friendly disease control solutions,” said Jan Spaas, Chairman of the Board at Animab. “We are especially pleased to welcome Anacura, whose experience further strengthens our governance, and we sincerely thank all existing investors for their continued confidence in our team.” Alain Wille, CEO of Animab, added: “This milestone reflects our shared belief in Animab’s potential to transform animal health without relying on antibiotics. With the continued support of our investors, we are accelerating the path toward antibiotic-free livestock solutions – enhancing both animal welfare and productivity.”
Barbara Berckmans, Investment Manager from AIF, adds: “Animab offers an innovative approach to a major challenge within the livestock sector. Investments in livestock farming are crucial to making this sector more sustainable. At AIF, we remain committed to supporting such forward-looking solutions and continue to act as a reliable partner in driving these developments forward.”
Nanoprotec®: a response to antimicrobial resistance
Nanoprotec® is Animab’s first-in-class oral monoclonal antibody designed to target ETEC F4, a leading cause of diarrhea in piglets that results in poor growth and high mortality rates. Nanoprotec® offers an effective, antibiotic-free alternative by preventing bacterial adhesion to the intestinal wall, thereby neutralizing pathogens before they become harmful. Administered via drinking water, the product delivers immediate immunity and a practical, scalable solution for farmers seeking sustainable livestock health strategies. In addition to advancing animal health, Nanoprotec® also contributes to mitigating the escalating threat of antimicrobial resistance. A regulatory submission to the European Medicines Agency (EMA) is planned by the end of 2025, with a market launch anticipated by the end of 2026.
About AIF
Agri Investment Fund BV (“AIF”) is the private equity and venture capital fund of the group Boerenbond (Farmers’ Union) and wishes through its investments to contribute directly or indirectly to a stronger and more sustainable agriculture and horticulture in Flanders and German speaking Belgium. Its investments have a focus within the Ag-Tech and Agro-Food domains aiming at stimulating innovation and as such helping to build a stronger agriculture of the future, allowing farmers and horticulturists to provide high-quality products at honest prices. More information on www.aifund.be.
About Animab
Animab is a biotech company founded in 2020 as a spin off from VIB, UGent and VUB, dedicated to addressing the changing needs of livestock production. Leveraging proprietary research discoveries, Animab focuses on targeting gastrointestinal infections in animals. Its interdisciplinary team integrates cutting-edge research in animal science and biotechnology to advance product breakthroughs, cost-efficiency and sustainability in animal health. Led by experts in vaccines, biotechnology, business management and international marketing, Animab is committed to offering safe and sustainable solutions that enhance animal performance and well-being. More information: www.animab.com.
For further information, please contact:
AIF
Patrik Haesen, CEO
T: +32 (0)16 28 62 54 | E: pers@aifund.be
Animab
Alain Wille, CEO
T: +32 467 06 00 91| E: alain.wille@animab.com
