Rockstart, a leading impact venture capital firm, has launched the Rockstart Biochar Network, an initiative aimed at transforming the Danish biochar ecosystem and fostering innovation in regenerative agriculture. Supported by the Green Development and Demonstration Program (GUDP), this network brings together startups, industry leaders, investors, and research experts to drive advancements in sustainable agriculture.
Supporting Startups in Copenhagen
The Rockstart Biochar Network is designed to create a collaborative environment where startups can thrive. By connecting entrepreneurs with key stakeholders, the network provides a platform for knowledge-sharing and innovation, crucial for startups looking to make an impact in the biochar sector.
“At Rockstart, we believe that building world-class ecosystems requires strong collaboration and knowledge-sharing among partners. With our decade-long experience in impact investing and supporting over 60 agrifood tech startups, we know that transformative change happens when we bring together entrepreneurs, researchers, investors, and industry leaders. That’s why we’re excited to launch the Rockstart Biochar Network with the support of GUDP to accelerate Denmark’s and Europe’s transition to regenerative agriculture and create lasting environmental impact,”
said Rune Theill, CEO and co-founder of Rockstart.
The Benefits of Biochar
Biochar, a carbon-rich form of charcoal produced through pyrolysis, offers a sustainable solution for soil enrichment and carbon sequestration. Its ability to improve soil health and retain water and nutrients makes it a valuable tool for startups focusing on regenerative agriculture. Each tonne of biochar applied to soil effectively sequesters three tonnes of carbon dioxide, contributing significantly to climate change mitigation.
The Rockstart Biochar Network aims to advance the understanding and application of biochar while fostering collaboration across the Danish biochar ecosystem. The network is open to all stakeholders, including startups, and serves as a hub for innovation and knowledge exchange.
In 2025, Rockstart will host two key events in Copenhagen to mobilize players across the biochar value chain. The network kick-off event on May 27th will provide a platform for discussion and networking, identifying challenges and opportunities in the biochar ecosystem. Later in the year, on November 25th, the Forward event will highlight some of the brightest minds in the industry, with selected startups pitching to the audience.
A Region Strong in Biochar and CDR
The Øresund region is already a strong starting place for the biochar sector. Here some of the pioneering efforts with biochar have been made, such as NSRs biochar plant or impact startup Ecoeras biochar plant in Hammenhög. Already some years ago the European Biochar Summit was held in Helsingborg, gathering leading experts from across the globe.
Transperancy: Karsten Deppert, the initiator of this site, is involved in biochar businesses biokolsbutiken.se and Carbon Collective.
