Animal health firms can now apply for key Kansas City investor forum

The Kansas City Animal Health Corridor is now accepting applications for its eighth-annual investor forum that brings together the top decision makers in the animal health industry.

The forum — set for Aug. 30 — will welcome dozens of venture capital organizations from around the world and offer animal health companies the chance to score millions of dollars in investment funds. Firms have until April 15 to apply.

Organizers said the forum is one of the best opportunities in the world for animal health firms to present their vision and business plan to potential investors. The selection committee will consider companies that are seeking $500,000 to $20 million in funding, and have revenue projections of $20 million within five to seven years.

Presenting companies are selected by a national committee of experts in agricultural and animal health. Forum attendees will include representatives from venture capital funds, investment firms, corporate research and business development professionals.

“We’re thrilled that the Forum has provided a unique opportunity for venture capital and investment firms to hear from emerging animal health companies with the newest technologies,” Kimberly Young, president of the KC Animal Health Corridor, said in a release. 

Companies that have presented at the forum have raised more than $165 million collectively, and many have also received licensing agreements or distribution contracts. Young previously said Kansas City is at the heart of the animal health industry. Companies with a location in the Kansas City Animal Health Corridor — which is a trademarked and Federally designated term — represent 56 percent of total worldwide animal health, diagnostics and pet food sales, making Kansas City the capital of the corridor.