Protealis develops superior seeds and seed technologies for legume crops so that they are better adapted to the European environment. Our mission is to be the best supplier of germplasm for sustainable plant proteins in Europe.

By combining innovation in breeding and nitrogen fixation, Protealis is creating new opportunities for European farmers to help bridge Europe's protein deficit and provide local and sustainable supply options for the growing number of meat producers and dairy alternatives.

Protealis was founded by Benjamin Laga and Jonas Aper. As former Global Head for Plant Biotech Research at BASF, Protealis’ CEO Benjamin Laga brings more than 20 years of international seed business and innovation experience. Jonas Aper has been in charge of the soy breeding program at ILVO since its inception in 2013 and is Protealis’ current Director of Breeding.

Protealis today consists of an enthusiastic team of scientists and industry experts. Everyday we work passionately to bring value to farmers while doing what is right for our environment.

Protealis is supported by an experienced board of directors. Chairman David Buckeridge is a well-known veteran in the seed industry. As the former CEO of Advanta Seeds (at the time the worlds’ 5th largest seed company), he led the company to a successful exit. After his time at the helm of Advanta he has been active in the field of private equity for Food and Agriculture with Paine Schwartz and has held and still holds several advisory and board positions in biotech, life science and agtech companies. Hartmut van Lengerich joined the company's board of directors on 1 April 2024 as an independent member. Mr. van Lengerich brings a wealth of knowledge to Protealis, backed by a distinguished 30-year career. He has held leadership positions at Bayer CropScience, including CEO roles for Eastern European Regions and Canada, as well as serving as Senior Vice President for Portfolio and Asset Management at Bayer AG, overseeing over $10 billion in worldwide sales.