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 has a healthy and high growth goal – to increase crop yield and reduce environmental impact through sustainable nitrogen fertilizers.

All humans need nitrogen to sustain growth.  The firm’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 4 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.  

Food sustainability continues to rise as a social concern, coalescing with environmental preservation, reduced carbon footprint, and access to clean water.  CEO Bill Brady notes, “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 $50MM investment led by Lowercarbon Capital that will be used to build manufacturing facilities near key agricultural producers.  

In recognition of Kula Bio and their groundbreaking work, Dacon’s Designed with Dignity philanthropy is funding a garden therapy program by Massachusetts Horticultural Society for senior residents at Carmel Terrace.  Carmel Terrace is a nonprofit assisted living community for 69 residents centered on the values of compassion, personal interest and loving care, which support the sanctity of life.  Residents will learn about pollinators, flower arranging, house plants and healthy plant care. Notes Michelle Drumm, Social Opportunities Director, “Our seniors felt significant isolation from Covid.  Working with plants is a nurturing activity that stimulates with beauty and new learning. These classes are not only a social activity but a gift in kindness, creativity and contentedness for our residents. Recently we lost our nature classroom provider due to Covid-related business impact so the timing couldn’t be better.  We are so excited!”.  Adds Karen Daubmann, Director of Garden and Programs for MHS, “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.”

Dacon’s Designed with Dignity philanthropy was founded on the belief that local organizations empower change and that positive change can transform a person’s life trajectory.  DwD seeks to acknowledge, encourage, and highlight the work of organizations that create a measurable difference. Working at the intersection of activation, awareness, and support, DwD financially aids those brave enough to build long lasting impact.  To date, 1,190 lives have been enhanced by this program.

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