Startup Deep Tech, active in the development of mycelium-based biomaterials as a sustainable alternative to single-use plastics, has closed a pre-seed round led by CDP Venture Capital-through its Tech4Planet and TerraNext funds. The capital raised will enable SMUSH Materials to move from the prototyping stage to first deliveries at scale, accelerating the evolution of its technology that has already been tested with key players in industries
Milan, April 17, 2025
SMUSH Materials, an innovative startup developing sustainable biomaterials for secondary packaging intended for heavy or fragile products, announces the closing of a €1 million pre-seed round. The investment will enable the startup to complete the prototyping phase of its innovative materials and start initial deliveries after a period of market testing carried out in collaboration with key industry leaders.
Investors and technology validation
The round, supported by vertical investors specialized in biotechnology and sustainability, including CDP Venture Capital through the Tech4Planet fund and TerraNext, confirms the validity of the technological solution proposed by SMUSH Materials. Indeed, the startup uses the natural power of mycelium and advanced fermentation processes to transform agricultural by-products into biomaterials with high mechanical performance, which are compostable and circular.
Technology in the service of sustainability
Founded by Luca Ficarelli (CEO), Marco Lenzi (CTO), Luca Schettino (COO) and Sara Mantero, the startup aims to replace traditional, high-impact solutions such as single-use plastics-particularly polystyrene-with natural, high-performance alternatives, making a concrete contribution to the global transition to a more sustainable, circular economy.
Toward industrial growth
“This investment marks a crucial step in SMUSH Materials’ growth, allowing us to rapidly refine and scale our innovative technology,” said Luca Ficarelli, CEO of SMUSH Materials. “We are excited to accelerate the industrial development path and establish ourselves among the key players in the sustainable packaging revolution.”
With the new financing, SMUSH Materials will be able to further solidify strategic partnerships with industrial and commercial companies interested in environmentally friendly, high-performance, and scalable packaging solutions.
The strong innovative and commercial potential of SMUSH Materials’ technology effectively addresses the growing demand for sustainable solutions in themanufacturing and logisticsindustry. The team is now looking for new industrial partners and talent to support the startup’s next phase of growth and development.
