Morus Inc., herein referred to as “Morus,” headquartered in Tokyo and led by CEO Ryo Sato, is pleased to announce its selection for the Practical Research and Development (Initial Phase) or STS Phase of the 2023 “Deep Tech Startup Support Fund/Deep Tech Startup Support Program (DTSU)” conducted by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO). This selection is in collaboration with DG Daiwa Ventures as its VC partner. Leveraging this endorsement, Morus is poised to accelerate innovative technological research and development that harnesses the full potential of silkworms, aiming for rapid commercialization and societal implementation.
Details of the DTSU Selection:
Project Title:
Establishment of Japanese material industry through mass production and global expansion of silkworm biomaterials.
DTSU aims to support startups that are committed to the research and development of groundbreaking technologies believed to address socio-economic challenges faced by the nation and the world at large. This program extends support for up to six years and provides research and development grants of up to 30 billion yen.
The silkworm resource managed by Morus is a domain in which Japan possesses world-leading research technology. Morus believes that expanding the business in this food sector can address global food and nutrition challenges, project Japanese research technology globally, and contribute significantly to the Japanese economy.
With this DTSU selection, Morus will advance innovative research and development to capitalize on the nutritional value of silkworms and aim to swiftly achieve business realization and societal implementation on a global scale.
About Morus
Morus, a research and development-centric venture originating from Shinshu University, is committed to the supply and research of silkworm biomaterials, which have historically supported Japan’s economic growth. Silkworms, enriched with nutrients not found in other insects, show great promise as raw materials. Through selective breeding and mass production, Morus aims to supply silkworms as raw materials for multiple industries such as food, feed, and healthcare, addressing global challenges like the “protein crisis.”
Silkworms are not only high in protein but are also under research for unique beneficial components not identified in other insects. They have been domesticated over a long period of human history, possessing traits like non-aggressiveness and lack of cannibalism, which make them ideal for mass production. Having been studied extensively, future research and development on silkworms are expected to progress smoothly. As a food source, silkworms represent a Japanese innovation with the potential to address global health challenges.
Inquiries
Companies interested in product development using silkworm materials, joint research and development with Morus, new business initiatives, or investments are encouraged to reach out through the inquiry form at the link below.
