Serra is very pleased to announce its latest investment in the Serra Ag & Food Tech Fund in Champaign-based Frenzy.
Frenzy Crop Systems is commercializing a novel biological crop input that unlocks a plant’s natural ability to “overcompensate” following stress—leading to dramatic yield increases. Originating from over 40 years of academic research by Chief Science Officer Dr. Ken Paige, the Frenzy system combines proprietary seed selection, a foliar spray, and supportive companion products to trigger a physiological response in soybeans that increases branching, reproductive nodes, and ultimately yields. In trials, the system has delivered yield gains of 30% or more, with some varieties showing up to 75% increases. This biological response is driven by enhanced endoreduplication and related gene pathways—scientifically validated but never previously commercialized at scale.
Frenzy is headed up by CEO Chris Harbourt, who was the founding CEO of Agrible, which sold to Nutrien in 2019. Chris is also on the advisory board of Serra, specializing in Ag companies.
Dennis Beard, Managing Partner at Serra, commented, "We've had the privilege to work with Chris for over a decade and have been impressed with his terrific work ethic as well as successful track record. The opportunity to invest in Frenzy aligns well with our Fund thesis as it represents a breakthrough technology that will have a tremendous impact on row crop agriculture."
