Mazen Animal Health announced today the close of its Series Seed Round led by Next Level Ventures and joined by Kent Corporation, ISA Ventures, Ag Startup Engine, Ag Ventures Alliance and Summit Ag.
The company is developing orally-delivered animal vaccines that revolutionize animal disease prevention. All six first tranche investors came into the second tranche of the Series Seed to close at the targeted amount of $2 million.
The seed funding fund further regulatory development for Mazen’s lead Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus (PEDV) vaccine candidate, scale-up of pipeline products, and preparations for registration studies.
“I continue to be impressed with the collaborative and supportive entrepreneurial environment in Iowa,” said Jenny Filbey, CEO of Mazen in an announcement. “With the investment, we are building a high-powered, diverse team and Board of Directors that brings experience and passion for our platform.”
Rick Sibbel is joining Mazen as Strategic and Technical Lead, with deep experience in animal vaccines. In his 30 plus years in the Animal Health Industry total, Dr. Sibbel has helped license more than 20 vaccines for livestock and poultry. Mark Zylstra is joining the company as Director of Regulatory Affairs to guide the company through the regulatory process.
The company also announced today the appointment of Kevin Fields, Joel Harris, and Terry Coffey to its Board of Directors.
“Kent Corporation views Mazen’s production platform for biologics as a strong next-generation technology,” said Fields, President and Chief Administration Officer of Kent. “I am pleased to be part of the Board of Directors and look forward to supporting Mazen’s continued successful track record.”
The company will raise Series A funding in the second half of 2021, which will be used to complete the registration studies for licensure of the PEDV oral vaccine, build the pipeline and expand the team and capabilities.
Previous coverage
Ag Startup Engine announces two $50,000 investments -March 1, 2021
Iowa G2M Accelerator announces the 5 startups in its first cohort -Feb. 23, 2021