ZymoChem Raises $25.1M Series B for Bio-Based Materials Platform

ZymoChem Closes $25.1M Series B

ZymoChem, a California-based biotech company, has raised $25.1 million in Series B funding. The round was announced on October 2, 2026.

What ZymoChem Does

ZymoChem develops bio-based alternatives to petroleum-derived materials. The company was founded in 2013 and is headquartered in San Leandro, California, with a satellite site in Burlington, Vermont.

Its proprietary Carbon Conserving (C2) fermentation platform converts renewable feedstocks into chemicals and polymers. According to the company, the platform achieves up to 50% higher yields and near-zero CO2 emissions.

Commercial Products and Partnerships

ZymoChem's first commercial product is BAYSE, a 100% bio-based, biodegradable superabsorbent polymer for the hygiene market.

The company also develops bio-based adipic acid for nylon 6,6 through a multi-year partnership with lululemon.

Funding Details

• Round type: Series B
• Amount raised: $25.1 million
• Announced: October 2, 2026
• Lead investor: Not disclosed

Why This Matters for Acquisition Watchers

ZymoChem operates in the growing bio-based materials space, where demand for sustainable alternatives to petroleum-derived chemicals continues to rise. The company's C2 platform targets two large markets: superabsorbent polymers for hygiene and adipic acid for nylon 6,6.

The BAYSE product addresses the hygiene market with a biodegradable alternative to conventional superabsorbents. The lululemon partnership provides a commercial validation path for bio-based adipic acid, a key nylon precursor.

With Series B funding, ZymoChem is positioned to scale production and expand commercial deployment of its platform. For strategic acquirers in specialty chemicals, materials science, or consumer goods supply chains, ZymoChem offers a differentiated fermentation platform with near-term commercial products and an established partnership with a major apparel brand.

Key Facts

• Company: ZymoChem
• Founded: 2013
• Headquarters: San Leandro, California
• Additional site: Burlington, Vermont
• Platform: Carbon Conserving (C2) fermentation
• First commercial product: BAYSE, a 100% bio-based, biodegradable superabsorbent polymer
• Partnership: Multi-year agreement with lululemon for bio-based adipic acid for nylon 6,6
• Stage: Series B
• Amount: $25.1 million
• Date: October 2, 2026