1 The EIC Accelerator Project
EIC Accelerator Program Overview
The EIC Accelerator is a flagship initiative of the European Innovation Council (EIC), designed to support innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups in Europe. The program aims to bridge the gap between research and market deployment by providing funding and support for high-risk, high-potential projects that have the potential to significantly impact the European economy and society.
Funding Structure
The EIC Accelerator offers two main types of funding:
- Companies can receive up to €2.5 million in grant funding. This funding is non-repayable and can be used for various project-related expenses, including research and development, prototyping, and pilot projects.
- This grant is particularly beneficial for projects that require substantial initial investment but may not yield immediate returns.
- In addition to grant funding, the EIC Accelerator provides equity investment.
- Until 2024, companies can receive up to €15 million in equity funding. Starting in 2025, this amount will decrease to €10 million.
- The equity funding aims to help companies scale their operations, enhance their market presence, and attract additional investment from private investors.
Purpose of the EIC Accelerator
The EIC Accelerator plays a pivotal role in the European DeepTech and startup ecosystem. Its primary objectives include:
- Promoting Innovation: The program targets innovative technologies and business models that have the potential to create significant economic and social impact.
- Supporting High-Risk Projects: By offering substantial funding, the EIC Accelerator encourages companies to take on high-risk projects that would otherwise struggle to secure financing from traditional sources.
- Enhancing Competitiveness: The program aims to strengthen the European innovation landscape by supporting startups and SMEs, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of the European economy on a global scale.
- Facilitating Market Entry: By providing funding and advisory services, the EIC Accelerator helps companies transition their innovations from the laboratory to the market.
Role in Scaling Companies and Attracting Investment
The EIC Accelerator is critical in helping companies scale their operations and secure funding from private sectors:
- Validation of Business Models: Winning an EIC Accelerator grant or equity funding serves as a validation of a company’s business model, making it more attractive to private investors.
- Networking Opportunities: The program often provides access to a network of investors, mentors, and industry experts, facilitating partnerships and collaborations that can help companies scale.
- Tailored Support: The EIC Accelerator offers tailored advice and support programs, which help companies refine their business strategies and improve their chances of success in the market.
- Reducing Financial Risks: By providing initial funding, the EIC reduces the financial risks associated with scaling operations, making it easier for companies to attract additional investment.
Summary of EIC Accelerator Winner: AENITIS TECHNOLOGIES
Company Overview
- Name: AENITIS TECHNOLOGIES
- Country: France
- Website: aenitis.fr
- Focus Area: Composite bonding and fastening solutions.
Project Overview
- Acronym: ACI2021
- Description: AENITIS TECHNOLOGIES is focused on developing reliable and durable composite bonding and fastening solutions. The project aims to innovate in the realm of material connections, which are crucial for various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and construction.
Technology Basics and Background
AENITIS TECHNOLOGIES specializes in composite materials, which are engineered materials made from two or more constituent materials with significantly different physical or chemical properties. The combination of these materials results in a composite with enhanced properties, such as:
- Weight Reduction: Composites tend to be lighter than traditional materials like metals, making them ideal for applications where weight is critical, such as in aerospace and automotive sectors.
- Strength and Durability: Composites can be engineered to offer superior strength-to-weight ratios, corrosion resistance, and fatigue resistance.
- Design Flexibility: The versatility of composite materials allows for complex shapes and structures that can be tailored to specific applications.
The project ACI2021 focuses on creating advanced bonding and fastening solutions that can withstand extreme conditions while ensuring long-lasting performance. This innovation is particularly significant in sectors where reliability and safety are paramount.
By leveraging the EIC Accelerator funding, AENITIS TECHNOLOGIES aims to enhance its product offerings, scale its operations, and solidify its position within the European market for advanced materials. The support allows the company to focus on R&D, market validation, and establishing strategic partnerships to drive growth and innovation.
2 The Funding Rounds
Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021, Aenitis Technologies has secured additional funding to advance its innovative acoustofluidic technology.Funding Rounds:
Investor Information:
- European Innovation Council Fund: Established by the European Commission, this fund supports companies in developing and commercializing disruptive technologies.
- Seventure Partners: A venture capital firm investing in innovative companies with high growth potential, particularly in life sciences and digital technologies.
- Mifani Invest: A family office focused on healthcare investments, created by Dr. Michel Spagnol in 2022.
- Stamos: An investment firm participating in the funding round.
- Weaving Invest: A subsidiary of Weaving Group, specializing in acquiring shares in innovative companies.
Company Valuations:
Specific valuations for Aenitis Technologies during these funding rounds are not publicly disclosed. However, according to PitchBook, the company has raised a total of €14.5 million in both equity and non-dilutive funding since its inception. (pitchbook.com)
As of the latest available data, Aenitis Technologies employs 14 people and is privately held. (pitchbook.com)
In summary, since June 16, 2021, Aenitis Technologies has secured strategic funding to support the commercial launch and global expansion of its acoustofluidic technology, with investments from notable European funds and investors.
3 The Press Releases
Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021, Aenitis Technologies has published several press releases detailing significant developments:1. Strategic Funding Announcement (October 10, 2024): Aenitis secured strategic funding to advance its acoustofluidic technology, aiming to redefine bioproduction. The funding round was led by the European Innovation Council Fund, Quadrivium I fund (Seventure Partners), and Mifani Invest. The funds are designated for the commercial launch of Aenitis' flagship product, Mitis™, and its global expansion. The press release also announced the addition of Eric Garnier as Independent Chairman and Michel Spagnol to the Strategic Board. (streetinsider.com)
2. Partnership with Bracco Imaging (January 8, 2025): Aenitis entered a Memorandum of Understanding with Bracco Imaging to develop "Acoustic Beads" for advanced rare and complex cell sorting in flow processes. This collaboration combines Aenitis' acoustophoresis technology with Bracco's expertise in functionalized microsystems, aiming to revolutionize cell sorting in biomanufacturing and advanced therapies. The partnership focuses on creating a safer, more efficient, and scalable alternative to magnetic beads, ensuring biocompatibility and improved cell viability. (wgntv.com)
3. Acquisition of Technology Assessment and Transfer, Inc. (June 2022): Aenitis acquired Technology Assessment and Transfer, Inc. (TA&T), a company specializing in transitioning advanced materials and process technologies from laboratory environments to commercial products and services. This acquisition is expected to enhance Aenitis' capabilities in developing and commercializing innovative technologies.
These press releases highlight Aenitis Technologies' strategic initiatives, including securing funding, forming key partnerships, and expanding its technological expertise through acquisitions.
4 The Technology Advancements
Aenitis Technologies, based in France, specializes in acoustofluidic technology that enhances cell and gene therapy manufacturing by precisely controlling levitated cells using sound waves. This approach ensures sterile conditions, increases productivity, and preserves the native state of cells throughout the engineering process. Their flagship product, Mitis™, is utilized across various applications, including cell sorting, isolation, concentration, and washing, from research to clinical and industrial scales. (globenewswire.com)Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021, Aenitis has made significant advancements:
- Technological Improvements and New Features: In October 2024, Aenitis secured strategic funding to advance its acoustofluidic technology, aiming for a commercial launch and global expansion. This funding supports the final stages of technology development, production line enhancements, and the refinement of the CE-marked Mitis™ for market readiness. (globenewswire.com)
- Market Demonstrations: Aenitis has demonstrated its technology in the market through collaborations and participation in industry events. Notably, in January 2025, Aenitis partnered with Bracco to develop "Acoustic Beads" for advanced rare and complex cell sorting in flow processes. This collaboration combines expertise in acoustophoresis and functionalized microsystems to revolutionize cell sorting, offering a safer, more efficient, and scalable solution. (aenitis.fr)
- Intellectual Property and Publications: Aenitis holds a robust portfolio of patents covering its technology, including exclusive licenses and patents in key global markets. This underscores the breadth and strength of their intellectual property in the field. (globenewswire.com) Additionally, Aenitis has been featured in industry publications, such as Biotech et Finances and Les Echos, highlighting their recent advancements and strategic initiatives. (aenitis.fr)
These developments reflect Aenitis Technologies' ongoing commitment to innovation and growth in the bioproduction sector.
5 The Partnerships and Customers
Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021, Aenitis Technologies has secured several strategic partnerships and customers to advance its innovative acoustofluidic technology.New Partners:
- European Innovation Council Fund (EIC Fund): As the venture arm of the European Innovation Council, the EIC Fund has been instrumental in supporting Aenitis Technologies' growth. (ec.europa.eu)
- Quadrivium I Fund (Seventure Partners): Managed by Seventure Partners, this fund has invested in Aenitis Technologies, contributing to its financial and strategic development. (ec.europa.eu)
- Mifani Invest: Represented by Michel Spagnol, former Chairman and CEO of Novasep, Mifani Invest has joined Aenitis' Strategic Board, bringing valuable expertise and a network to the company. (ec.europa.eu)
- Stamos Capital Partners LP: This investment firm has participated in Aenitis Technologies' funding round, supporting its mission to redefine bioproduction. (ec.europa.eu)
- Weaving Invest: A subsidiary of Weaving Group, Weaving Invest has invested in Aenitis Technologies, providing strategic assistance to drive the company's growth. (ec.europa.eu)
New Customers:
Specific details about new customers acquired by Aenitis Technologies since June 2021 are not publicly disclosed in the available sources.
Nature and Purpose of New Relationships:
- EIC Fund: The EIC Fund's investment aims to support the development and commercialization of Aenitis Technologies' disruptive acoustofluidic technology, bridging the company with market players and fostering innovation. (ec.europa.eu)
- Quadrivium I Fund (Seventure Partners): This partnership provides Aenitis Technologies with financial resources and strategic guidance to accelerate its growth and market presence. (ec.europa.eu)
- Mifani Invest: Michel Spagnol's involvement brings expertise in structuring companies and establishing new partnerships, aiding Aenitis Technologies in scaling its operations. (ec.europa.eu)
- Stamos Capital Partners LP: Their investment supports Aenitis Technologies' mission to redefine bioproduction, contributing to the company's technological advancements. (ec.europa.eu)
- Weaving Invest: By investing in Aenitis Technologies, Weaving Invest strengthens the company's equity and provides strategic assistance to drive growth. (ec.europa.eu)
Market Positioning:
These partnerships position Aenitis Technologies as a leading innovator in the bioproduction sector, enhancing its credibility and market reach. The involvement of experienced investors and strategic advisors bolsters the company's reputation and opens new avenues for collaboration and expansion.
Technology Advancements and Scaling:
The strategic funding and partnerships enable Aenitis Technologies to:
- Commercial Launch and Global Expansion: The funds support the commercial launch of Aenitis' flagship product, Mitis™, and the establishment of distribution channels in Europe, the US, and selected Asian markets. (ec.europa.eu)
- Technology Development: The investments facilitate the final stages of technology development, improvement of production lines, and refinement of the CE-marked Mitis™ for market readiness. (ec.europa.eu)
- Strategic Guidance: The expertise of new board members, such as Eric Garnier and Michel Spagnol, provides valuable insights and networks to accelerate revenue growth and establish new partnerships. (ec.europa.eu)
These relationships collectively support Aenitis Technologies in advancing its technology, scaling operations, and achieving its mission to transform bioproduction processes.
6 The Hiring and Company Growth
Aenitis Technologies, a French company specializing in acoustic-based cell manipulation, has experienced significant growth and strategic developments since receiving EIC Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021.Current Headcount and Team Size: Specific details regarding Aenitis Technologies' current headcount and team size are not publicly disclosed.
Hiring Status: While the company has not publicly announced current hiring initiatives, the recent strategic funding and expansion plans suggest potential growth in team size.
Growth and Expansion: Since the EIC Accelerator funding, Aenitis has secured additional strategic investments, including a €4 million funding from the European H2020 / SME Instrument Programme in December 2017 (businesswire.com) and a significant funding round in October 2024 led by the European Innovation Council Fund, Quadrivium I fund managed by Seventure Partners, Mifani Invest, Stamos, Weaving Invest, and other investors (ec.europa.eu). These investments total €14.5 million and are intended to support the commercial launch of their flagship product, Mitis™, and global expansion.
Key Positions and Strategic Board Additions: In October 2024, Aenitis expanded its Strategic Board by appointing Eric Garnier, former Vice President and General Manager of Pall Medical, as Independent Chairman. Additionally, Michel Spagnol, former Chairman and CEO of Novasep, joined the board representing Mifani Invest. These appointments are expected to accelerate revenue and profit growth and establish new partnerships (ec.europa.eu).
Implications for Company Growth: The strategic funding and board appointments are poised to enhance Aenitis' capabilities in bioproduction, particularly in cell therapy and biomanufacturing. The involvement of seasoned industry leaders is anticipated to drive innovation, improve operational efficiency, and facilitate the company's expansion into new markets.
Management and Founding Team Changes: There are no publicly available reports of major changes in Aenitis Technologies' management or founding team since the EIC Accelerator funding.
In summary, Aenitis Technologies has demonstrated substantial growth and strategic development since June 2021, positioning itself for significant advancements in the bioproduction sector.
7 The Media Features and Publications
Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021, Aenitis Technologies, a French company specializing in acoustofluidic technology for cell manipulation, has been featured in various media outlets and participated in several events. Below is a summary of their media coverage, publications, podcasts, interviews, conferences, fairs, and event involvements since that date:Media Features:
- Biotech et Finances: Aenitis was featured in an article titled "AENITIS: DE L’ACOUSTIQUE CELLULAIRE À L’HARMONIQUE DES FONDS," where CEO Emmanuel Vincent discussed the company's recent successful fundraising and the benefits of their acoustofluidic technology in biomanufacturing. (aenitis.fr)
- Les Echos: The company was highlighted in an article titled "Aenitis raises 6.5 million euros for its cell sorting machines by levitation," focusing on their innovative approach to cell sorting through levitation technology. (aenitis.fr)
- GlobeNewswire: A press release titled "Aenitis Secures Strategic Funding to Redefine Bioproduction with Sole-In-Class Acoustofluidic Technology" announced the successful closure of their equity financing, detailing the involvement of various investors and the intended use of funds. (globenewswire.com)
- Biopharma Boardroom: An article titled "Aenitis Technologies Secures Major Funding to Transform Bioproduction with Advanced Acoustofluidic Technology" discussed the company's funding round and its implications for the biomanufacturing sector. (biopharmaboardroom.com)
Publications:
- GlobeNewswire: Published a press release on October 10, 2024, detailing Aenitis' strategic funding and its impact on bioproduction. (globenewswire.com)
- Biopharma Boardroom: Featured an article on October 10, 2024, discussing Aenitis' funding and its potential to transform bioproduction. (biopharmaboardroom.com)
Podcasts or Interviews:
Conferences and Fairs:
- Matinale Deeptech: CEO Emmanuel Vincent participated in the POC Media – Matinale Deeptech event on November 7, 2024, discussing "Les Nouveaux Acteurs des Biothérapies" at the Paris Santé Cancer Campus. (aenitis.fr)
- ESGCT Annual Congress: Aenitis sponsored the European Society of Gene and Cell Therapy Annual Congress in Brussels from October 24 to 27, 2023, engaging with leading experts in the field. (aenitis.fr)
- ISCT Annual Meeting 2023: The company participated in the International Society for Cell and Gene Therapy conference, presenting a side event and engaging with industry professionals. (aenitis.fr)
Event Involvements:
- Gentle Technologies Event: Aenitis collaborated with startups Trince and LiveDrope to showcase innovations in Gentle Technologies for Cell Processing, highlighting advancements in biotechnology. (aenitis.fr)
- ESGCT Annual Congress: As a sponsor, Aenitis engaged with experts and presented their technologies at the event in Brussels. (aenitis.fr)
- ISCT Annual Meeting 2023: The company presented a side event and engaged with leading experts in cell and gene therapy. (aenitis.fr)
This overview highlights Aenitis Technologies' active participation in media and industry events since their EIC Accelerator funding in June 2021.