The Billionaire Bioengineer: Ben Lamm’s Journey to Wealth

Ben Lamm, an American serial entrepreneur, has carved a niche in biotechnology and technology, achieving billionaire status through his innovative ventures and shrewd business strategies. Known for his collaboration with famed geneticist George Church, Lamm has become a leading figure in genetic engineering, particularly in the ambitious area of de-extinction through his company, Colossal Biosciences.

Early Ventures and Strategic Exits

The serial entrepreneur’s journey into entrepreneurship began in his senior year at Baylor University when he founded his first company. This early foray into business laid the groundwork for his future successes. Over the years, he demonstrated an uncanny ability to tap into emerging technologies and market them effectively. His ventures, such as Team Chaos, a mobile gaming company, and Chaotic Moon Studios, a mobile app developer, were strategically sold to larger corporations like Zynga and Accenture, respectively. These exits contributed to his wealth and built his reputation as a savvy entrepreneur. Lamm’s most recent company, Hypergiant Industries – often compared to Marvel’s fictional Stark Industries, was working on next-gen heads up displays and reconfigurable tracking satellites when it was acquired.

The Rise of Colossal Biosciences

In 2019, with an initial $15 million seed funding, Lamm co-founded Colossal Biosciences. The company leveraged CRISPR technology to tackle conservation biology projects, placing it at the cutting edge of genetic research. By 2021, Colossal made headlines with its audacious goal to resurrect the woolly mammoth, a project that sparked widespread media attention and investor interest. The involvement of celebrities like Paris Hilton and Chris Hemsworth as investors helped Colossal raise over $435 million by January 2025, significantly bolstering Lamm’s financial standing and highlighting his ability to blend scientific innovation with entrepreneurial acumen.

Broadening Horizons with Form Bio and Breaking

Beyond Colossal, Lamm continued to diversify his portfolio. He co-founded Form Bio, a company designed to streamline and enhance the efficiency of scientific research through software solutions. Additionally, in 2024, he launched Breaking, a startup focusing on developing technologies for plastic degradation. This venture, particularly with its discovery of X-32, a microbe capable of breaking down various plastics, underscores Lamm’s commitment to addressing global environmental challenges through technological innovation.

Philanthropy and Global Impact

Lamm’s influence extends beyond commercial success into philanthropic efforts. In 2024, he established The Colossal Foundation, a non-profit organization utilizing technologies developed at Colossal Biosciences for conservation efforts worldwide. This move exemplifies his dedication to using his resources and technological advancements to impact the planet positively.

Recognition and Influence in the Scientific Community

Lamm’s work has earned him a place on the Board of Trustees for The Explorers Club, where he contributes to advancing field research and exploration globally. His recognition as a thought leader is also reflected in his involvement with various panels and discussions that aim to reshape public understanding and policy toward biotechnology and conservation.

Through his innovative startups, strategic business moves, and a keen eye for transformative technologies, Ben Lamm has not only amassed substantial wealth but has also positioned himself as a pivotal figure in using science and technology to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. His journey from a college entrepreneur to a billionaire bioengineer is a testament to the potential of visionary leadership and the impactful fusion of technology with global business strategies.

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