UpStart Weekly Rundown - October 10, 2024

Flora Fertility Snags $1.5M to Redefine How We Insure Baby-Making Dreams

Flora Fertility is shaking up the insurance world by tackling a problem most insurance companies won't touch—fertility treatments. The Calgary-based insurtech just scored $1.5 million in pre-seed funding to launch its individualized fertility insurance across the U.S. and Canada. Unlike traditional insurance models, Flora’s product is designed for flexibility and portability, giving women the freedom to safeguard their reproductive health no matter where they work or live. Backed by Highline Beta, Cartography Capital, and others, this bold approach could make pricey treatments more accessible and affordable, aiming to end the financial stress of family planning​

Buzzing into Big Bucks: Canadian Fly Farmer Lands $58M to Fuel Sustainable Protein Revolution

Canada’s fly farming startup, Entosystem, is attracting serious investment buzz, securing a massive $58 million to expand its efforts in turning black soldier flies into sustainable protein for aquaculture feed. As the world faces mounting pressures to find alternative, eco-friendly protein sources, this insect-powered approach promises to shake up the fish feed industry. Investors are betting big that these tiny flies hold the key to greener farming, propelling the company to the forefront of sustainable agriculture innovation.

Who knew fly farming could be so fly for the future?

Claim Bags $12M to Redefine How Gen Z Discovers Brands—No Cookies Required!

Claim, the social app that’s turning Gen Z into loyal brand advocates, just secured a $12 million Series A funding round led by VMG Technology. Ditching traditional ads, Claim helps brands skip the Google-Meta ad wars by offering cash back to users for trying out new merchants—whether it’s food, retail, or experiences. Every week, users eagerly await "The Drop," comparing rewards with friends, and discovering which cool spots their crew is already vibing with. With this fresh cash injection, Claim is set to expand its team, merchant base, and market reach, moving beyond college campuses into U.S. cities. Brands like Shake Shack and Sweetgreen are already biting—Gen Z's next favorite hangout could be just one "Drop" away!

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