Fresh dog food brand Marleybones has secured £900,000 in seed funding to continue its fast-paced growth.

The seed funding was led by JamJar Investments, a venture capital firm set up by the founders of Innocent Drinks. It was also supported by Active Partners, the consumer investor behind Soho House, Rapha and KatKin. 

Marleybones’ mission to redefine dog food has also been recognised by other participants in the round, including a group of renowned veterinarians from Animal Health Angels alongside tech unicorn founders, digital marketing experts and consumer specialists.

The fresh funds will be used to grow the Marleybones team, expand its online presence and broaden its retail footprint after its recent UK launches in Waitrose and Whole Foods Market. Since launching in 2020, Marleybones has grown annual sales to £1m via direct-to-consumer channels.

Founders Josephine Rode Bager and Mikala Skov launched the brand with a mission to “redefine dogfood”. Marleybones’ pantry fresh meals were inspired by the gap between quality and convenience that Josephine identified when feeding her own dog, Marley.

Josephine said: “Marleybones is driven by our founding mission of making dogs healthier and happier. This investment will allow us to continue delivering on that promise and caring for more dogs than ever before. Having seen the benefits on my own dog Marley, and the customers we’re lucky enough to serve, we’re excited about what this investment unlocks for our community.”    

Mikala added: “We couldn’t be more thrilled to have partnered with industry leaders in veterinary care and category-defining consumer brands. Their support and investment will help us take the next leap forward in making fresh dog food more accessible and further our mission of improving the lives of dogs.” 

Richard Reed, founder of JamJar Investments and Innocent Drinks, said: “We are delighted to join forces with Marleybones at this exciting stage in their journey as a brand. Marleybones’ innovative approach to dog nutrition – pantry fresh® dog food – masterfully blends the superior quality of fresh ingredients with the ease of traditional dog food offerings. 

“We’re thrilled to be supporting Mikala, Josephine, and their expanding team in introducing their nutritious and convenient dog food to an increasing group of dogs, pet parents and retailers over the coming months and years.”

Currently, only 2% of female founders in the UK receive VC funding, making Marleybones' accomplishment all the more remarkable. As a female-founded start-up, Marleybones is championing greater inclusivity and diversity within the entrepreneurial landscape.