Source: Bloomberg
Summary
Colossal Biosciences, a de-extinction startup, is reportedly seeking new funding that could double or triple its previous valuation. The company, which aims to bring back extinct species like the woolly mammoth, is said to be in talks with investors. The funding round could value the company at several billion dollars. Colossal Biosciences was founded in 2021 and has raised $75 million to date.
Our Reading
The launch follows a familiar script.
Colossal Biosciences wants to revive extinct species, because who needs conservation when you can just reboot the past? The startup is seeking new funding, because that’s what startups do. The valuation might triple, because who doesn’t love a good hype cycle? Colossal Biosciences was founded by a tech entrepreneur, because that’s all you need to solve complex biology problems. This is just Jurassic Park, but with more venture capital.
Author: Evan Null
De-Extinction Hype
Colossal Biosciences is not the first company to promise de-extinction, and it won’t be the last. The idea of bringing back extinct species has been around for decades, but the technology has yet to deliver.
Funding and Valuation
The startup’s valuation might triple, but that’s just a number. What matters is whether Colossal Biosciences can deliver on its promises. The company has raised $75 million so far, but it will likely need much more to achieve its goals.
Conservation vs. De-Extinction
While Colossal Biosciences is focused on bringing back extinct species, many experts argue that conservation efforts should focus on protecting existing species. De-extinction is a complex and expensive process, and it’s unclear whether it’s the best use of resources.
The Role of Tech Entrepreneurs
Colossal Biosciences was founded by a tech entrepreneur, which raises questions about the role of tech leaders in solving complex biological problems. While tech entrepreneurs can bring new ideas and resources to the table, they often lack the necessary expertise in biology and conservation.
Lessons from Jurassic Park
The idea of de-extinction is often compared to Jurassic Park, and for good reason. The movie highlights the dangers of playing with nature and the unpredictability of complex systems. Colossal Biosciences would do well to learn from these lessons and approach de-extinction with caution and humility.
