Belgium-based Biotope, an early-stage investor that backs biotech startups, recently welcomed three new companies into its portfolio.

The first is BugBiome (Cambridge, UK), which turns “beneficial microbes into a crop’s best friend.” BugBiome identifies naturally occurring microbial consortia that deter pests while sparing pollinators and other helpful insects.

The second is B-COS (Ghent, Belgium), a company that builds “nature-inspired COS molecules that switch on plants’ own immune responses.” Its goal is to replace chemical pesticides with bio-based products.

And finally, Typcal (São Paulo, Brazil), which grows mycoprotein via biomass fermentation.

Each startup receives €250K (US$293K) in cash, €100K (US$117K) in non-cash tailored support, and access to Belgium-based life sciences research institute VIB’s scientific ecosystem and biotope’s network of partners, industry experts, and mentors.

The new portfolio companies now enter Biotope’s 18-month incubation to reach seed-readiness with targeted scientific, regulatory, and business support.