Shinkei Systems Secures $22 Million Series A Funding for Revolutionary Seafood Robotics

Shinkei Systems, a US-based company specializing in seafood robotics, has successfully raised $22 million in a Series A funding round, bringing its total funding to an impressive $30 million. The round was led by prominent investors, Founders Fund and Interlagos, with contributions from new investors including Yamato Holdings, Shrug, CIV, Jaws, and Mantis, alongside existing backers.

Funding Goals

This latest influx of capital will primarily be used to broaden Shinkei’s outreach to retailers and commercial fishing vessels, as well as to expand its engineering team.

Innovative Technology with Humane Practices

At the core of Shinkei’s operations is its groundbreaking machine, Poseidon, which integrates robotics with supply chain tracking and cold storage techniques. The machine also employs Japan’s traditional ike jime fishing method, a humane technique where fish are killed instantly by a spike to the brain. This process aims to improve the quality of seafood while adhering to more ethical standards.

According to Saif Khawaja, co-founder and CEO of Shinkei, conventional fishing methods often leave fish to suffer on the decks of vessels, resulting in elevated levels of stress hormones and lactic acid that affect meat quality. Shinkei’s technology alleviates this issue by scanning the fish for identification and immediately employing the ike jime method, draining blood through osmosis.

“[Fish] lose consciousness right away, which stops stress and the production of hormones, leading to increased shelf life and better flavor,” explains Khawaja.

A Long-Term Vision for Sustainability

Shinkei provides its Poseidon technology to commercial fishing vessels at no cost, allowing fishermen to sell their catch back to Shinkei at a premium rate. Shinkei subsequently markets the fish under its Seremoni brand, which was launched in 2024 to make high-quality seafood accessible to a wider audience.

“We realized it was more effective to share our story directly with those who see the value in sustainable practices,” Khawaja states. This model allows fishermen to maximize earnings without the burden of additional costs.

With a passion for fishing and a background in commercial fishing operations, Khawaja aims to facilitate a transition toward sustainable practices for fishers. He notes that it’s unrealistic to expect fishermen to adopt humane practices without support, particularly in such a hazardous industry.

Expanding the Seremoni Brand

The Seremoni brand has already seen success with products like Black Cod and Black Sea Bass, featuring in several high-profile restaurants. Funding will also be allocated to expanding the product lineup, adding fish such as red snapper and salmon to their offerings.

Shinkei is not only focused on product expansion but is also intensifying its engineering recruitment efforts. With plans to operate along the eastern seaboard by July and expand further into the Gulf by year-end, the company is poised for significant growth.

Conclusion

Shinkei Systems is at the forefront of a transformative approach to commercial fishing. By combining advanced technology with ethical practices, the company seeks to redefine fish sourcing and provide sustainable seafood options for consumers everywhere.