LISTEN: Biotech founder breaks down how she turns microorganisms into high-quality protein in just 24 hours
September 5, 2025 | Austin Barnes
On this episode of Startland News’ Plug and Play Topeka founder podcast series, we explore a ground-breaking food innovation with Katelijne “Kate” Bekers, co-founder and CEO of MicroHarvest.
This biotech startup is pioneering the world’s fastest protein production — turning microorganisms into high-quality protein in just 24 hours, using sustainable fermentation and agricultural side-streams, while slashing water, land use, and CO₂ emissions by more than 95 percent.
Bekers walks us through MicroHarvest’s rapid ascent — from lab experiments to commercial scale production — now delivering 10 tons per day and targeting a full-scale facility of 15,000 tons annually by 2026. We also delve into how its MPX single-cell protein and HILIX nucleotide extract offer more than just nutrition — they bring functionality for sectors ranging from aquafeed to pet and human nutrition.
Recorded live at the Plug and Play Animal Health & AgTech Expo in Topeka, this episode continues Startland News’ 12-part series on the founders transforming the future of animal health and agtech — and putting Topeka on the map as a national innovation hub.
Listen to a teaser below or click here for the full podcast episode.
Featured Business
2025 Startups to Watch
stats here
Related Posts on Startland News
Grassroots ‘Kansas Cannabis Chamber’ sprouts as legalization looms; led by KC CBD mom-turned-industry advocate
For the first time in Sunflower State history, a bill to legalize medical marijuana passed in the Kansas House in May. Behind the effort: a locally grown coalition of cannabis advocates. The Kansas Cannabis Coalition formed in summer 2020, composed of about 50 individuals who have shown leadership in the cannabis industry, said Heather Steppe,…
Mixed Mutt fetches new home for doggie ice cream shop inside Crossroads pup space
Opportunity continues to bark for Mixed Mutt Creamery, Sherri Corwin said, announcing the dog-friendly ice cream shop will soon move from its Midtown storefront to join forces with another pet-focused small business in the Crossroads Arts District. “This is a huge opportunity for growth,” Corwin told Startland News, detailing a new partnership between Mixed Mutt…
Who’s getting funded in KC? The answer requires a long look in the mirror, analysts say
Editor’s note: Startland News asked industry experts to take an early look at the data behind the 2021 Kansas City Venture Capital-Backed Companies Report — the culmination of a three-month collaboration between UMKC’s Technology Venture Studio and Startland News, and presented by Mylo, a Lockton Company. Below are some of their leading takeaways, along with…
2021 Kansas City’s VC-Backed Companies Report
Higher headcounts and more than a billion dollars in funds raised. The 2021 Kansas City Venture Capital-Backed Companies Report provides a rare snapshot into the bustling, two-state metro’s growth-stage, venture-backed companies. The 2021 report — the culmination of a three-month collaboration between UMKC’s Technology Venture Studio and Startland News — reflects not only ongoing deal…