EP #387 - Jonas Urwyler & Nico Hauschke: How to Make Fishing Sustainable
Mar 31, 2024
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Jonas Urwyler & Nico Hauschke discuss launching Capt’n Greenfin, a sustainable fishing goods company. They highlight market timing, product innovation, fundraising, and the environmental impact of traditional fishing products. With a focus on sustainability and biodegradable bait, they aim to revolutionize the fishing industry.
Launching a sustainable fishing bait company in 2021 was well-timed due to impending EU lead product bans and increased environmental regulations.
Captain Greenfin's focus on producing 100% biodegradable, protein-based bait and European-manufactured packaging sets them apart in the fishing industry.
Deep dives
Captain Greenfin's Sustainable Solution to Plastic and Lead Pollution in Fishing Industry
Captain Greenfin, a fishing tech startup, offers biodegradable plastic lures as an alternative to conventional plastic bait, addressing the environmental impact of 1,300 tons of plastic and lead ending up in European rivers yearly. Co-founders Jonas and Nico's collaboration stemmed from a shared passion for sustainable fishing and innovation, leading to the development of eco-friendly fishing products in Europe.
Market Timing and Competition in Sustainable Fishing Industry
Captain Greenfin's timing aligns with the industry shift towards sustainability, with lead products facing future bans and a growing demand for eco-friendly alternatives. The competitive landscape in the fishing industry highlights a lack of plastic-free solutions, positioning Captain Greenfin as a pioneer with innovative, European-produced, and patent-protected products.
Fundraising and Milestones for Captain Greenfin's Growth
Captain Greenfin aims to raise 150,000 Swiss francs to propel research and development, scale production, and expand marketing efforts. The team's milestones include securing industry R&D projects, launching lead-free products, and gaining recognition through awards and trade fair appearances. With a focus on sustainable innovation and market expansion, Captain Greenfin is poised for success in the evolving fishing industry.
16:15 - 99% of fishing products are produced in Asia
19:34 - Fundraising through the Swisspreneur Syndicate
About Jonas Urwyler & Nico Hauschke:
Jonas Urwyler is the co-founder and CEO at Capt’n Greenfin, a fishing goods company striving to make fishing sustainable. He holds an MBA from the University of Freiburg and previously worked for companies like VZ VermögensZentrum and TIER Mobility before starting Capt’n Greenfin in 2021. Nico Hauschke is the General Manager of Germany and the EU at Capt’n Greenfin, and holds an MS in Digital Innovation & Business Transformation from the Steinbeis-Hochschule Schools of Next Practices. He worked for companies like RTL Group and Arvato Financial Solutions before joining Capt’n Greenfin in 2023.
It is estimated that 1’300 tons of plastic and another 1’300 tons of lead end up in European lakes every year due to lost fishing bait. If we add to this that the EU is planning on a complete ban of lead products by 2027, and is banning more and more single use plastic items, it becomes clear that in 2021 the timing was right to launch a sustainable fishing bait company. Capt’n Greenfin produces 100% biodegradable, protein-based bait which will not harm the environment if lost. They’re also conscientious about their packaging, and they produce in Europe, so as to avoid the environmental cost of transporting goods across the globe.
They’re currently raising CHF 150K through the Swisspreneur Syndicate as part of their first fundraising round. Click here to learn more about the deal.