The free range chicken farms industry in the US focuses on allowing poultry to roam freely rather than be confined in cages. This approach not only enhances animal welfare, but also tends to produce tastier and healthier meat. Companies involved range from small family-owned farms to larger agribusinesses, and many are adopting organic practices. Recent consumer trends show a growing preference for humanely raised poultry, pushing the industry towards sustainability and higher welfare standards. Interesting shifts are occurring as tech solutions are being integrated into farming practices, helping optimize operations while benefiting the birds and surrounding environment.

This selection of top investors reflects a mix of venture capital firms and corporate backers, with locations spanning major cities like San Francisco and New York. Founded between 1865 and 2023, these investors range in size from small teams to large organizations, showcasing versatile approaches to agriculture. In 2024 alone, they completed varying numbers of deals—some like IFC with over a hundred investments, while others such as Unovis engaged in fewer, yet impactful rounds. Their distinct backgrounds contribute to a unique investment strategy within the sustainable agriculture niche.

Top 14 Free Range Chicken Farms Investors in the US

1. Y Combinator

• Website: ycombinator.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 802
• LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It specializes in providing funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies, having successfully launched over 4,000 startups. Among its diverse portfolio, Y Combinator has invested in companies like Rebellyous Foods, which focuses on plant-based meat alternatives, and Nobell Foods, known for its innovative approaches to food production. These investments indicate Y Combinator's interest in the food industry, particularly in sustainable and alternative food sources, which could align with the principles of free range chicken farming. The firm operates a structured program that offers resources such as the Startup School and co-founder matching services, making it a key player in the technology startup ecosystem.

2. 500 Global

• Website: 500.co
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 98
• LinkedIn: 500-startups

500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing funding, mentorship, and resources to help founders scale their businesses. In addition to their broad focus on technology, 500 Global has made notable investments in the poultry sector, including Chickin, an Indonesian poultry startup aimed at enhancing food security, and Poultry Sync, which raised funding in 2024. These transactions highlight 500 Global's engagement in the agricultural industry, particularly in areas that could benefit free range chicken farms through innovative approaches and technology.

3. AgFunder

• Website: agfunder.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 20
• LinkedIn: agfunder

AgFunder is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2013. They specialize in foodtech and agtech investments, providing funding and consulting services to startups in the food and agriculture sectors. AgFunder is known for its active role in the agri-food technology landscape, publishing industry news and research to enhance the knowledge base of the sector. In recent years, they have participated in various funding rounds, including investments in companies like Meatiply, a cultured meat producer, and SIMULATE, a plant-based meat company. Although these transactions do not directly involve free range chicken farms, AgFunder's focus on innovative agricultural practices and sustainable food production aligns with the values of free range farming. Their investment in companies like Mayani, which aims to transform the food value chain in the Philippines, also indicates a broader interest in improving agricultural practices, which could encompass free range chicken farming.

4. Advantage Capital

• Website: advantagecap.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 5
• LinkedIn: advantage-capital-partners

Advantage Capital is a venture capital firm based in New Orleans, Louisiana, founded in 1992. The firm specializes in providing equity and debt financing to small businesses across various sectors, including agribusiness, solar projects, and affordable housing. They focus on supporting entrepreneurs and businesses in underserved communities, offering flexible capital solutions to help them grow and thrive. Notably, Advantage Capital has been involved in significant transactions within the agribusiness sector, particularly with Hip Chick Farms, which raised funds through multiple rounds of financing, including a Series A and convertible notes. This involvement highlights their commitment to investing in sustainable agricultural practices, including free range chicken farming.

5. IFC - International Finance Corporation

• Website: ifc.org
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1956
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 107
• LinkedIn: ifclinkedin

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a not-for-profit organization established in 1956, headquartered in Washington, D.C. It focuses on private sector development in emerging markets by providing investment, advisory, and asset management services to businesses and financial institutions. The IFC aims to help these entities access capital and expertise to foster economic growth and address challenges such as poverty. Notably, the IFC has been involved in various transactions within the agricultural sector, including significant investments in Srinivasa Farms, which raised $23 million in a venture round in July 2018 and an additional $9.37 million in a corporate round in August 2019. These investments suggest a commitment to enhancing agricultural practices, which may encompass free range chicken farming as part of its broader strategy to promote sustainable agricultural development.

6. Cargill

• Website: cargill.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Wayzata, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1865
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 7
• LinkedIn: cargill

Cargill, Incorporated is a global food production and agricultural solutions company founded in 1865 and headquartered in Wayzata, Minnesota. With over 10,000 employees, Cargill provides a wide range of products and services, including animal nutrition, food ingredients, and risk management solutions. They serve various customers, including farmers and food manufacturers, with a commitment to enhancing food security and sustainability. Notably, Cargill has made strategic investments in the poultry sector, including the acquisition of Pollos El Bucanero S.A., a leading Colombian producer of chicken and processed meats, which marked their entry into the Colombian market and strengthened their protein business in Latin America. Additionally, Cargill has participated in funding rounds for companies like Memphis Meats and UPSIDE Foods, which focus on alternative protein sources, showcasing their interest in innovative food production methods while maintaining a strong presence in traditional poultry production.

7. Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)

• Website: av.vc
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2023
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 258
• LinkedIn: deep-tech-fund-av-focused-fund

Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded in 2023. The firm provides accredited investors and institutions with access to professionally-managed, diversified venture portfolios, leveraging a network of over 10,000 investors to connect them with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. Notably, the fund has participated in several transactions relevant to the food and agriculture sector, including Area 2 Farms, which raised funds in December 2023, indicating a focus on innovative agricultural practices. Other investments include companies like Cultured Decadence and Aleph Farms, which are involved in alternative protein production, showcasing the fund's interest in sustainable food solutions. This diverse portfolio suggests that while the fund may not exclusively target free range chicken farms, it is engaged in the broader agricultural and food innovation landscape.

8. Unovis Asset Management

• Website: unovis.vc
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn: unovisvc

Unovis Asset Management is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2016. The firm is dedicated to transforming the global food system through sustainable practices, focusing on startups that innovate in plant-based foods and alternative proteins. Notable transactions include their investment in SuperMeat, an Israeli startup developing lab-grown 'clean chicken' products, which highlights their commitment to sustainable poultry alternatives. Additionally, they participated in funding rounds for NOVAMEAT, a company producing plant-based meat alternatives, further emphasizing their focus on innovative food solutions that align with animal welfare and climate change mitigation. Unovis provides essential support and consulting to entrepreneurs in the food industry, aiming to foster a more sustainable food ecosystem.

9. FJ Labs

• Website: fjlabs.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 169
• LinkedIn: fj-labs

FJ Labs is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2015, that specializes in investing in marketplace and network effect businesses. With a portfolio of over 1,000 companies, many achieving unicorn status, FJ Labs provides capital and strategic guidance to entrepreneurs across various industries, including e-commerce and logistics. Notably, they have invested in Porter Road Butcher, a sustainable, whole animal butchery that focuses on pasture-raised meat, which aligns with the principles of free range chicken farming. This investment, along with their other ventures, showcases their commitment to supporting sustainable agricultural practices, making them a relevant player in the food and agriculture sector.

10. Tyson Foods

• Website: tysonfoods.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Springdale, Arkansas, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1935
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 5
• LinkedIn: tyson-foods

Tyson Foods, Inc. is a leading food manufacturer specializing in protein products, including chicken, beef, and pork. Founded in 1935 and based in Springdale, Arkansas, the company serves a diverse range of customers, including consumers, restaurants, and food service providers, by offering high-quality meat products. Tyson Foods has demonstrated a commitment to sustainability and community support. Notably, they acquired Tecumseh Poultry LLC in 2018, a leading producer of organic chicken, which includes the Smart Chicken brand. This acquisition positions Tyson Foods as a major player in the organic chicken market. Additionally, they have participated in funding rounds for innovative companies like Memphis Meats and Upside Foods, indicating their interest in the future of meat production, including potential free-range and alternative protein sources.

11. The Hain Celestial Group

• Website: hain.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Hoboken, New Jersey, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: the-hain-celestial-group

The Hain Celestial Group, Inc. is a corporate investor based in Hoboken, New Jersey, specializing in natural foods and organic personal care products. Founded in 1993, the company targets health-conscious consumers and families, emphasizing sustainability and healthier living. Notably, Hain Celestial has made strategic acquisitions in the poultry sector, including the acquisition of Empire Kosher Poultry, the largest kosher poultry producer in the U.S., for $57.5 million in 2015. This acquisition allowed Hain to take full control of Empire, which is expected to enhance its brand and product offerings. Additionally, Hain Celestial acquired Hain Pure Protein Corporation, which includes a 19% interest in Empire Kosher Poultry, further solidifying its position in the poultry market. These transactions highlight Hain's commitment to expanding its portfolio in the poultry industry, making it a relevant player in the free range chicken farms context.

12. Sysco

• Website: sysco.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1969
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn: sysco

Sysco Corporation, founded in 1969 and based in Houston, Texas, is a leading food distributor that provides a wide range of food products, kitchen equipment, and culinary solutions to various sectors including restaurants, healthcare, and educational institutions. With a vast distribution network, Sysco ensures that its customers receive high-quality products and services tailored to their operational needs. Sysco has been active in acquiring companies that enhance its food distribution capabilities, including Lincoln Poultry & Egg Co., which they acquired in 2010, indicating a focus on poultry distribution. Other notable acquisitions include Newport Meat Company, Buckhead Beef Co., and Freshpoint, which further diversify their product offerings. While Sysco's acquisitions suggest a strong presence in the food industry, their role is primarily as a distributor rather than a direct investor in free range chicken farms.

13. Siddhi Capital

• Website: siddhicapital.co
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Cherry Hill, New Jersey, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn: siddhi-capital

Siddhi Capital is a venture capital firm based in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, founded in 2017. The firm specializes in the food and beverage industry, providing growth equity investments and operational consulting services to emerging and growth-stage brands. Siddhi Capital focuses on optimizing operations and achieving strategic growth for its portfolio companies. In 2023, they participated in the seed funding rounds for companies like Meatly, which raised $4.5 million, and Barvecue, which is involved in plant-based meat alternatives. They also invested in 50CUT and MeliBio, both of which are innovative food brands. While their primary focus is not on free range chicken farms, their involvement in the food sector and innovative brands suggests a potential interest in sustainable poultry practices.

14. Cavallo Ventures

• Website: cavallovc.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 5
• LinkedIn: cavallo-ventures

Cavallo Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2016. The firm specializes in enabling innovative technology across agriculture, animal health, and nutrition sectors. They provide investment and strategic support to startups and companies, helping them to develop and launch new products and services. Notably, Cavallo Ventures has been involved in several significant transactions, including a $36.5 million Series A investment in Omeat, which focuses on alternative protein sources, and multiple funding rounds for Beta Hatch, an insect farming startup that raised a total of $28.3 million across various rounds. These investments reflect Cavallo's commitment to supporting sustainable agricultural practices, which could extend to free range chicken farming as part of their broader agricultural focus.

Free Range Chicken Farms Insights: Key Investors in the US

Investor	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Deals 2024
Y Combinator	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2005	802
500 Global	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	201-500	2010	98
AgFunder	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2013	20
Advantage Capital	New Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)	51-200	1992	5
IFC - International Finance Corporation	Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1956	107
Cargill	Wayzata, Minnesota, United States (USA)	10001+	1865	7
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)	Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)	51-200	2023	258
Unovis Asset Management	New York, New York, United States (USA)	1-10	2016	2
FJ Labs	New York, New York, United States (USA)	11-50	2015	169
Tyson Foods	Springdale, Arkansas, United States (USA)	10001+	1935	5
The Hain Celestial Group	Hoboken, New Jersey, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1993	0
Sysco	Houston, Texas, United States (USA)	10001+	1969	1
Siddhi Capital	Cherry Hill, New Jersey, United States (USA)	11-50	2017	4
Cavallo Ventures	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	1-10	2016	5

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