C16 Biosciences

Meet an Unreasonable Venture

Using innovative processes found in nature to brew sustainable alternatives to palm oil

Shara Ticku

Founder & CEO at C16 Biosciences

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c16bio.com

Employees 21–50

Headquarters New York, New York, United States

C16 Biosciences is an award-winning, climate-tech startup using innovative processes found in nature to brew sustainable alternatives to fats and oils. The company's first product offering, Palmless™, is the platform for sustainable palm oil alternatives. C16’s proprietary technology platform uses biomanufacturing to create next-generation ingredients and materials that successfully address global ESG challenges—including climate change, food security, the environmental and safety impacts of natural resource extraction, and more.

Energy & Environment and Food & Water

Notable Achievements

Raised $24 million to date, including funding from Breakthrough Energy Ventures (Bill Gates) and US DOE.
Gross margin positive in first market (beauty / personal care), approaching cost-competitive
First product sold out in 2 hours and received >1 billion media impressions

Currently Operating in Two Regions

Press Mentions

December 29, 2024

Sustainable Alternatives To Palm Oil The Sustainable Alternative - Otosection

C16 Biosciences is pioneering sustainable alternatives to palm oil, addressing environmental concerns linked to palm cultivation. Their innovative approach not only offers eco-friendly solutions...

December 22, 2024

Palm Oil Palm Oil Alternatives Sustainable Palm Oil - Otosection

C16 Biosciences is pioneering sustainable alternatives to palm oil, addressing environmental concerns linked to traditional palm oil production. Their innovative approach not only promotes...

October 18, 2024

The Future Is Female: Women In Venture Capital - Plato Data Intelligence

C16 Biosciences is making waves in sustainable biotechnology, led by innovative women in venture capital. Their groundbreaking work in producing palm oil alternatives celebrates female leadership,...

Read on Zephyrnet »

July 3, 2024

A Biotech Solution to Palm Oil Deforestation

Shara Ticku, Co-founder and CEO of C16 Biosciences (and HBS alumna), which uses fermentation to produce a palm oil substitute, describes how she and her partners built their start-up, including how...

Read on Harvard Business School »