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US vertical farming company Vertical Harvest has closed an $8.35 million Series A funding round, led by Nicoya and Raiven Capital. The investment round also included Oatly co-founder Björn Öste and Mike Krupka, a partner at BainCapital Ventures. Vertical Harvest – which is based in Jackson, Wyoming – is looking to create a network of local sustainable farms with an inclusive employment scheme. The company currently produces packaged salads, including microgreens and lettuces, as well as tomatoes and edible flowers. Nona Yehia, CEO and co-founder of Vertical Harvest, said: "We are changing the world by focusing on creating beautiful buildings in urban environments that provide community renewal, jobs and life training for people who are employment-challenged and nutritious food that is local, fresh and better tasting. We will do this all while generating good returns for our shareholders." The company is breaking ground on its second US location in Westbrook, Maine, this spring.