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Summer in Arlington means packed farmers markets, community events and plenty of dogs enjoying the outdoors alongside their owners. For Chippin, a pet food company scaling the use of sustainable proteins, these summer traditions have been more than just a part of local life. They have helped shape the company’s growth.

Headquartered in Arlington since 2021, Chippin attends dozens of events across the DMV each summer. The company is inspired by the unique ability pets have to bring people together and spark conversations that might not otherwise happen. A simple “Would your dog like a treat?” has opened the door to discussions about everything from digestive health and food allergies to stories about flying invasive fish and the environmental impact of traditional protein sourcing.

Founded on the belief that environmental challenges can become opportunities for innovation, Chippin built a consumer brand around alternative proteins, including cricket protein and invasive silver carp. Their work with invasive carp has been supported by conservation leaders, including the World Wildlife Fund, as an example of how market-based solutions can address environmental challenges. By creating economic value for an invasive species, the company helps align ecological restoration with commercial opportunity.

As the company has grown, so has the opportunity. What began as a pet food brand is now evolving into a broader ingredient platform. This year, Chippin launched IGNIZA, an ingredient platform designed to unlock nature-positive proteins for the pet food industry, starting with invasive silver carp.

The company is already expanding beyond carp. Through a USDA-funded initiative, IGNIZA is developing supply chains around invasive blue catfish, a species threatening the health of the Chesapeake Bay. By creating commercial demand for invasive species, the company is advancing market-based solutions that benefit ecosystems, local economies and domestic supply chains.

Arlington has been the ideal place to launch and scale this vision. The unique combination of a highly educated workforce, thriving startup and technology ecosystem, and proximity to Washington, D.C. has enabled Chippin to build partnerships with conservation organizations, government agencies and mission-driven businesses working to solve complex environmental challenges.

Just as importantly, Arlington’s dog-loving community has helped inspire the company’s evolution as it works to build the next generation of sustainable pet food ingredients.

This summer, as the team continues meeting dogs and their owners across the region, they are reminded that some of the best business ideas start with a simple conversation. Sometimes, that conversation begins with a dog treat.

Arlington Economic Development supports innovative companies like Chippin as they grow and scale in the region. Learn more about resources for startups and mission-driven businesses.