Suzhou Qihe Biotechnology

The core of Qi Biodesign's operations is its proprietary SEEDIT™ research platform. This technology suite enables a range of sophisticated genetic modifications, including precise gene knockout, base editing, and the insertion of large DNA fragments in plants. The company provides these advanced genome solutions to industrial users, targeting the biological breeding sector. Its business model centers on leveraging the SEEDIT™ platform to develop and commercialize plant traits that enhance crop value. This is achieved by creating germplasm resources with improved characteristics such as higher yield, herbicide tolerance, and enhanced nutritional profiles. Qi Biodesign has developed efficient delivery systems for over 40 crops, including major staples like rice, wheat, soybean, and maize.

Since its inception, the company has secured significant financial backing to fuel its research and development pipeline. It has raised a total of $75 million through Seed, Pre-A, and Series A funding rounds from a consortium of investors including Apricot Capital, Source Code Capital, Gaorong Ventures, and CD Capital. These funds are earmarked for enhancing the SEEDIT™ platform and accelerating the path from research to market. The company has already marked significant regulatory achievements, receiving two biosafety certificates for gene-edited plants (high oleic acid soybean and powdery mildew-resistant wheat) from China's Ministry of Agriculture and an exemption for its high oleic acid soybean from the US Department of Agriculture.