Natick, MA – Dacon Corporation has completed construction on the headquarters for Kula Bio, relocating to Natick from Cambridge. A 4-year-old startup positioned within the agricultural solutions market, Kula Bio’s goal is to increase crop yield and reduce environmental impact through sustainable nitrogen fertilizers.
Kula Bio’s product, Kula-N, is a biofertilizer densely populated with non-genetically modified bacteria fortified to carry large stores of energy and nutrients into the soil. The product’s raison d’etre is focused on increasing yield and soil quality, thereby optimizing food production for agricultural enterprises. The headquarters is comprised of four research spaces surrounded by executive offices and common areas. To support these labs, a dedicated mechanical room was built to house compressed air, DI water system, autoclaves and a UV sterilizer.
CEO Bill Brady said, “Over 90% of fertilizer in use is still synthetic and a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions and damage to local water supplies and land.” Kula-N addresses two factors often blocking sustainable solutions: accessibility and affordability. In January, the firm received a $50 million investment led by Lowercarbon Capital that will be used to build manufacturing facilities near key agricultural producers.
In recognition of Kula Bio and its groundbreaking work, Dacon’s Designed with Dignity philanthropy is funding a garden therapy program by Massachusetts Horticultural Society (MHS) for senior residents at nonprofit assisted living community, Carmel Terrace. Residents will learn about pollinators, flower arranging, house plants and healthy plant care. Karen Daubmann, director of garden and programs for MHS, said, “Our mission (Commune Bonum – For the Common Good) has helped people and communities change lives for the better through growing plants for 192 years. This program is a great match between our goal of working with senior populations and a community need. We look forward to a productive and fun program.”
