2011
Start of research
Leiden University students Wouter Bruins and Wil Stutterheim started research on in ovo sexing as part of the course Science Based Business.
2013
Founding of In Ovo
In Ovo BV was formally founded.
2014
Letter of intent
We signed a letter of intent with the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Dutch Society for the Protection of Animals and COBK (representing the poultry sector) that stated the intention of all parties to work towards a solution to end chick culling in the Netherlands.
2018
Series A investment round
We secured Series A investment funding of several million euros, led by Evonik Venture Capital with participation from VisVires New Protein and Leiden University.
2020
First production of cull-free chicks
We installed our first Ella machine at Het Anker hatchery, producing 350,000 cull-free chicks. This finally allowed us to have a real impact and to prove that our technology works. Work started on an Ella machine with a higher capacity.
2022
Series B investment round
We raised another €34M in a Series B investment round, led by the European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF). This round also included financing from ABN AMRO Bank and additional investments from technology partner Demcon and existing shareholders Evonik and VisVires New Protein.
2022
Start production
In September 2022, we started production with our improved high-capacity Ella machine at Hatchery Het Anker in Ochten.
2023
Vepymo opts for Ella®
Hendrix Genetics and In Ovo joined forces with the installation of an Ella® machine at Vepymo’s hatchery.
2023
Doubling the capacity of Ella® at hatchery Het Anker
Our Ella® machine at Het Anker hatchery has doubled its capacity in May 2023. This enables the hatchery to supply larger laying flocks and marks a significant step forward in helping In Ovo achieve its goal of putting a complete end to the culling of day-old male chicks.
2023
Office renovation
We’ve renovated our two office floors to create a new colourful space, which is brimming with fresh energy.
Wil Stutterheim
Founder
Want to be part of our next milestone?
Don’t hesitate to get in touch.