KOS, a purveyor of plant-based protein and nutritional supplements, has closed a $2.1-million finance round lead by Springdale Ventures, former Whole Foods CEO Walter Robb, and Chairman of Austin-based Horizon Bank Jim Schneider. The new funding will fuel continued innovation, strengthen the brand’s marketing presence in the U.S., and expand distribution into new markets, according to the company.

Since 2018, KOS has been at the forefront of the plant-based movement, innovating a product line of organic, plant-based, sustainably produced, nutrition staples. The brand’s popularity is rooted in a message of physiological redemption as key to healing both Self and Planet.

This year, amid the coronavirus pandemic, KOS has seen a 271% increase in sales between July 2019 and July 2020; the brand has also entered 5,400 new points of distribution in 2020 including Whole Foods Market, Kroger, SafeMart and other large grocery chains. 

“As we grow, our mission remains the same: to give everyone access to plant-based superfoods that promote overall health and can be enjoyed on-the-go while positively impacting the environment,” said Allan Stevens, co-founder of KOS. “The KOS Plant-Based Protein is currently the #1 rated plant-based protein on Amazon and we recently added new functional blends such as Sippin’ on Shroom Boom, Holy Cacao! and A Whole Latte Gold to the line-up. We feel so fortunate to have outstanding partners in Springdale Ventures, Walter Robb and Jim Schneider, and are excited to continue offering plant-based power for all.”

“KOS is made up of a first class team and the brand is a key player in a high growth category,” said Genevieve Gilbreath co-founder/general partner of Springdale Ventures/KOS Board Member. “KOS is taking an innovative approach both in terms of go to market strategy, effectiveness in connecting with consumers in a digital environment and maintaining a strong company culture in a booming space. We are confident and excited to support KOS’s bright future.”

“KOS is the complete package. Led by strong and driven leadership, and offering a diverse line of delicious, plant-based products, KOS provides consumers with the opportunity to make a small yet sustainable change that positively impacts overall health and the environment,” said Jim Schneider, chairman of Horizon Bank and former CFO at Dell, Inc. “KOS’s ability to reach people across all dietary preferences makes them a company destined for great things and we are happy to partner with them as they scale the business to new heights.”