NEW YORK – Cooks Venture, a poultry company specializing in heirloom birds and regenerative agriculture, raised $4 million in funding that will help the company expand national distribution to wholesale and retail customers. The poultry company recently raised $12 million in secured financing.

Leading the funding round was Golden West Food Group, Vernon, California, manufactures raw and cooked proteins, pizzas, burgers, sausages, hot dogs and other foods.

“Consumers are always looking for a wider variety of ethically sourced meats, and we like to be at the forefront of what’s new and innovative in the market,” said Josh Solovy, president, Golden West Food Group. “We align with Cooks Venture’s philosophy that better animal husbandry yields higher quality, great tasting and better-for-you foods. That’s why we invested in Cooks Venture and believe they, in short time, will be a market leader for pasture-raised, heirloom and heritage bred, regenerative poultry in the US.”

Cooks Venture also announced Ankur Agrawal has joined the company as chief financial officer. Most recently, Agrawal served as vice president of finance at mobile ticketing platform SeatGeek.

Agrawal spent three years working at Blue Apron, along with Matt Wadiak, co-founder of the meal kit company and founder of Cooks Venture. Prior to joining Blue Apron, Agrawal worked at Pepsico in a variety of finance roles. He began his career in investment banking with a focus on food and agriculture clients.

“Matt is committed to making a positive, long-lasting impact on the agriculture and food systems,” Agrawal said. “Cooks Venture provides a unique opportunity to combine my passion for heathy food and food systems, reversing climate change and building strong businesses.”

Agrawal will report directly to Wadiak.

“As Cooks Venture continues to expand, it is critical that we add trusted executives to our team, who can help grow the business,” Wadiak said. “I look forward to seeing what Ankur can do for the company as we look to our second year.”