South Korea-based aquaculture technology startup MEGAPLAN has secured a Pre-Series A Funding from early-stage VC firm Bluepoint Partners. MEGAPLAN specializes in land-based aquaculture systems built on proprietary year-round spawning technology for mackerel. The company aims to address pressing issues in marine food security, such as rising sea temperatures, microplastic contamination, and ocean pollution, through sustainable inland fish farming.

MEGAPLAN’s land-based system tackles unstable seafood supply chains and allows consumers to access mackerel at more affordable prices. The company aspires to make mackerel available to people around the world at just one dollar per fish.

Currently operating a land-based mackerel aquaculture facility in Pyoseon-ri, Seogwipo, Jeju Island, MEGAPLAN has already demonstrated commercial viability by successfully producing and selling its first generation of artificially spawned mackerel in January of this year.

Global mackerel stocks have declined by 74% over the past 40 years, putting the species at risk of extinction by 2050. MEGAPLAN’s technology is being recognized for its potential to counteract this trend and contribute to global food security.

Bluepoint Partners emphasized MEGAPLAN’s proven operational capabilities, noting the team’s direct management of an aquaculture facility and its ability to commercialize its spawning technology. The investor also highlighted the startup’s strong alignment with market trends and technological readiness.

Ham Seulbeom, Principal at Bluepoint Partners and lead judge in the investment decision, commented, “MEGAPLAN offers an innovative solution that addresses both seafood supply shortages and environmental challenges using land-based aquarium aquaculture. We expect the team to bring transformative innovation to mackerel farming through full-cycle digitalization—from spawning to sales.”

Yu Cheolwon, CEO of MEGAPLAN, stated, “This investment marks a crucial turning point in realizing our vision of the ‘one-dollar mackerel.’ We aim to not only strengthen domestic food security but also contribute to global hunger eradication efforts like the UN’s Zero Hunger initiative.”

Previously, MEGAPLAN received seed investments from Infobank and TheVentures, and was selected for the TIPS (Tech Incubator Program for Startups) by South Korea’s Ministry of SMEs and Startups.