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Benson Hill assets sold to Confluence Genetics, new agtech firm formed

Soybean trait development for animal feed and food markets will be the focus for the new company backed by agribusiness investors.

Confluence Genetics 4 C Standard@4x 100

The business assets of Benson Hill have been sold to Confluence Genetics, LLC, following approval by the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. The sale enables the continuation of the soybean trait development business outside of Chapter 11 bankruptcy under new leadership.

Confluence Genetics, an agtech startup, has been acquired by a group of agribusiness investors including Expedition Ag Partners and S2G Investments. The new company will concentrate on:

  • Scaling its proprietary ultra-high protein soybean genetics for animal feed.
  • Expanding its market position in the specialty food grade portfolio.
  • Broadening its geographic reach by utilizing its soy germplasm, AI-powered breeding platform (CropOS®), and speed breeding facility.

“This is more than a financial reset—it’s a strategic reboot and a bright beginning,” said Kim Hurst, Confluence Genetics’ newly appointed Chief Executive Officer. “With our proprietary genetics, CropOS® technology platform, and state-of-the-art speed breeding facility, we will deliver high-value, differentiated, quality trait soybeans.”

The acquisition includes more than 350 patents, issued or pending. Confluence Genetics’ 2029 soybean class, which was recently planted in 2025 field trials, is anticipated to deliver advanced quality traits, including higher protein and improved oil quality.

Mike DeCamp, President and CEO of Expedition Ag Partners and incoming board Executive Chairman for Confluence Genetics, played a key role in leading the Debtor-In-Possession financing for Benson Hill. He stated that Confluence Genetics' future is built on lessons from past experiences and has significant growth potential.

“Confluence Genetics has the right tools, talent, and technology to shape soy innovation in ways that we’re only beginning to appreciate,” DeCamp said. “We at Expedition Ag believe Confluence Genetics has a promising future as a nimble innovation engine that will deliver value across the value chain, from farm gate to end user.”

Confluence Genetics will be headquartered at 1200 Research Boulevard in Creve Coeur, Missouri, which also houses its indoor speed breeding facility. The company will operate with an experienced team of approximately 60 employees and joins the 39 North Ag Tech Innovation District in St. Louis.

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