1 The EIC Accelerator Project
The EIC Accelerator program, part of the European Innovation Council (EIC), is designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups in their journey towards market readiness and scaling. It offers a unique blend of funding options including grants and equity investments, targeting innovative projects that have the potential to influence the European market significantly. The program primarily focuses on deep technology companies, particularly those that are developing groundbreaking solutions in areas such as AI, biotechnology, and advanced manufacturing.Funding Structure
The EIC Accelerator provides blended finance, combining both grant funding and equity investment to maximize support for innovative projects.
Purpose and Impact
The primary purpose of the EIC Accelerator is to bolster the European DeepTech and startup ecosystem by enabling high-potential companies to thrive. By offering financial resources and support, the program plays a pivotal role in helping these companies bridge the gap between innovation and commercialization.
The EIC Accelerator not only provides funding but also fosters partnerships with private investors, encouraging them to co-invest alongside the EIC. This collaborative approach enhances credibility and attractiveness to potential investors, allowing companies to secure necessary funding to scale their operations and bring their innovations to market.
Case Study: ALIAS ROBOTICS S.L. and Project RIS
ALIAS ROBOTICS S.L., a Spanish startup, emerged as a winner of the EIC Accelerator in November 2023 with their project titled RIS (Revolutionising Industrial Robotics with the Next Generation Robot-Specific AI-Powered Security Platform).
Project Overview
The RIS project aims to transform industrial robotics by introducing an advanced AI-powered security platform designed specifically for robots. This innovative solution addresses critical issues around cybersecurity, operational safety, and efficiency in robotic systems, which are increasingly deployed in various industrial settings.
Technology Background
The technology underpinning the RIS project revolves around the integration of artificial intelligence with robotic systems to ensure secure operations. As industrial robots become more interconnected and autonomous, they face heightened risks from cyber threats. ALIAS ROBOTICS has developed a platform that leverages machine learning algorithms to detect and mitigate potential security vulnerabilities in real time.
The core components of the RIS platform include:
- AI-Driven Threat Detection: Utilizing sophisticated algorithms, the platform can analyze behavioral patterns and identify anomalies that may indicate a security breach.
- Robust Security Protocols: The platform implements multi-layered security measures to safeguard against unauthorized access and cyber-attacks.
- User-Friendly Interface: Designed for ease of use, the platform allows operators to monitor robotic systems in real time and manage security protocols effectively.
By addressing the security challenges faced by industrial robots, ALIAS ROBOTICS aims to enhance the operational reliability of these systems, thus encouraging wider adoption across various industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and supply chain management.
Conclusion
The EIC Accelerator program serves as a crucial mechanism for fostering innovation and scaling potential within the European startup landscape. The success of ALIAS ROBOTICS with their RIS project exemplifies the program's impact, showcasing how financial support combined with innovative technology can drive significant advancements in industrial robotics. By investing in such transformative projects, the EIC Accelerator not only strengthens the European economy but also positions Europe as a leader in innovative technology solutions.
2 The Funding Rounds
Financing Raised by Alias Robotics S.L. Since EIC Accelerator Funding
Alias Robotics S.L., a Spanish company specializing in cybersecurity for robots, was awarded funding through the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator following their successful application at the November 8, 2023 cut-off.
Funding Rounds and Timing
- EIC Accelerator Blended Finance: Alias Robotics secured a significant blended finance package from the EIC Fund, consisting of:
- €2.5 million in grants
- €5 million investment round, scheduled for early 2025
- The investment round is managed by the EIC Fund and notably includes a commitment from the European Investment Bank (EIB), which will contribute €2.5 million—representing half of the total equity investment.
Amounts and Investor Information
- Total Announced Funding Post-EIC Award: €7.5 million
- Investors Involved:
- Primary investor: EIC Fund
- Co-investor: European Investment Bank (committing €2.5M to equity)
No additional investors or earlier/later rounds have been publicly disclosed since this major financing event.
Details Related to Funding Rounds
- The funding was publicized in March 2024 as part of an official announcement celebrating Alias Robotics’ selection among only 42 other companies out of over one thousand applicants across Europe.
- This support is aimed at scaling research, development, commercialization efforts, and expanding go-to-market initiatives with leading project partners.
- According to industry reporting on Dealroom and related platforms, no other significant venture capital rounds or investor syndicates have been reported since this blended finance package.
Company Valuation
Publicly available data does not specify an updated post-money valuation for Alias Robotics following this latest financing round. However, Dealroom previously listed an enterprise value estimate of approximately $22 million as of June 2019; more recent figures are not available in public sources after the new funding. Given that Alias Robotics was described as "one of the most highly valued companies" among its cohort by both company statements and news coverage related to its EIC win, it can be inferred that its valuation has increased substantially—though exact figures remain undisclosed.
Exit Events (IPO/Buyouts/Acquisitions)
There have been no reported exit events involving Alias Robotics S.L.—such as IPOs or acquisitions—since receiving their EIC Accelerator backing through May 2025. The company continues operating independently with growth objectives centered on product innovation and market expansion driven by its new capital injection.
Summary Table: Key Financial Events Since November 8th Cut-Off
Event | Date | Amount | Investors |
---|---|---|---|
Grant Awarded | Mar–May 2024 | €2.5M | EIC Fund |
Equity Round Announced | Early/Mid–2024 | €5M | EIC Fund (€2.5M), European Investment Bank (€2.5M) |
No further details regarding additional fundraising activity or secondary transactions were identified up to May 2025.
Sources:
- Secures Prestigious Funding from European Innovation Council
- Alias Robotics secures prestigious funding from European Innovation Council
- Alias Robotics company information, funding & investors
- Unveiling the Latest EIC Accelerator Results: A Comprehensive Analysis – November 8th Cut-Off February Release
3 The Press Releases
Alias Robotics Secures €7.5M in EIC Accelerator Funding for AI-Powered Robot Cybersecurity Alias Robotics S.L., a Spanish robotics cybersecurity firm, was selected among 42 companies to receive funding from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program following the November 8, 2023 cutoff. The company secured €2.5M in grants and €5M in equity investment (including a €2.5M commitment from the European Investment Bank) to advance its AI-driven security platform for industrial robots.Funding and Strategic Focus
The funding supports Alias Robotics’ Robot Immune System (RIS), an endpoint security solution combining AI-driven threat detection with adaptive firewalls tailored for industrial robots. RIS is already deployed on systems like Universal Robots’ UR5 at research institutions such as Latvia’s EDI, where it safeguards robotic workflows in projects involving Industry 4.0 applications and autonomous systems. The EIC grant will accelerate R&D, expand market reach, and enhance partnerships with manufacturers seeking compliance with emerging robotics cybersecurity standards.Technology Advancements
RIS provides:- Real-time anomaly detection: Machine learning models analyze robot behavior to identify cyberthreats specific to robotic operating systems (ROS/ROS-2).
- Zero-day attack mitigation: Patented protocols isolate compromised components without disrupting operations.
- Compliance tools: Automated reporting for IEC 62443 and other industrial cybersecurity frameworks.
Partnerships and Case Studies
Alias Robotics collaborates with research institutes like EDI Latvia to secure robots handling sensitive tasks such as waste sorting automation and smart manufacturing. Their technology ensures operational continuity while protecting intellectual property during collaborative EU-funded projects like TRINITY and AI4DI.Sources
- Secures Prestigious Funding from European Innovation Council
- Unveiling the Latest EIC Accelerator Results: A Comprehensive Analysis
- Case Study - an extra security layer with RIS to ensure safety
4 The Technology Advancements
Alias Robotics S.L.: Post-EIC Accelerator Funding Advancements Based on available information up to March 2024, Alias Robotics has made significant strides following its European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding selection. While specifics about technology improvements or new features directly tied to the November 2023 award remain limited in public disclosures, the company’s trajectory post-selection includes key developments:Financial and Strategic Growth
- Funding Allocation: Secured €2.5M in grants and plans for a €5M investment round (early 2025), with the European Investment Bank contributing 50%. This positions Alias Robotics to expand R&D and market penetration.
- Market Positioning: Recognized among 43 elite companies by the EIC, reflecting confidence in their cybersecurity solutions for robotics.
Technology Focus Areas
- Robot Immune System: Their proprietary endpoint protection platform (REPP) remains central, leveraging AI for adaptive threat response. No explicit post-funding upgrades are documented, but EIC resources likely accelerate existing projects like bio-inspired security layers.
- Vulnerability Research: Maintains the Robot Vulnerability Database (RVD), a public repository for robot-specific vulnerabilities, though no recent expansions are noted.
Market Engagement and Partnerships
- Client Base: Prior collaborations include industry leaders like Acutronic Robotics, but no new customer pilot programs or demonstrators have been publicly announced since the EIC award.
- Global Expansion: Emphasizes international market growth as part of its strategic plan, with EIC funds earmarked for scaling operations.
Intellectual Property and Publications
- Patents: Earlier filings focused on RIS components (e.g., plug-and-play security chips). No new patents are confirmed post-November 2023.
- Publications/Whitepapers: Limited recent academic outputs; however, their blog highlights ISO 10218 compliance efforts linking safety and cybersecurity standards.
Sources
- Alias Robotics | Robot Cyber Security
- Secures Prestigious Funding from European Innovation Council
- The company from Álava Alias Robotics secures prestigious funding
- https://aliasrobotics.com
- https://www.cve.org/PartnerInformation/ListofPartners/partner/Alias
- https://news.aliasrobotics.com
- https://startupsreal.com/alias-robotics-the-startup-that-offerscybersecurity-for robots/
- https://www.compasslist.com/insights/alias-award-winningcyber-security-pioneer-reduces-clear-and-present-danger-of robots/
- https://github.com/aliasrobotics/RVD
- https://news.aliasrobotics.com/secures-prestigious-funding-eic/
- https://www.bicaraba.eus/en/thecompany-from-alava-alias-securesfunding/
- https:/ /robo tekin.co m/en / alias secu res eic fun ding /
Note: Specific advancements between November 2023 and March 2024 are not extensively detailed in available sources.
5 The Partnerships and Customers
Overview of Alias Robotics S.L.
Alias Robotics S.L., a Spanish company specializing in robot cybersecurity, has recently received funding from the EIC Accelerator. This recognition highlights their innovative approach to securing robotic systems, addressing critical vulnerabilities that could compromise safety and data integrity.
Partnerships and Customers
Alias Robotics has established a strategic partnership with Smartlog Group to enhance the cybersecurity of Smartlog's automation solutions. This collaboration aims to provide comprehensive cybersecurity services to Smartlog's clients, ensuring a more efficient and resilient supply chain. Smartlog's integration of cutting-edge technologies such as AI, machine learning, and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) makes this partnership particularly significant in enhancing security across logistics and robotic operations.
New Partners and Customers
While specific new partners or customers have not been detailed beyond the Smartlog Group, this partnership represents a significant milestone in expanding Alias Robotics' services. The collaboration allows Smartlog to offer added value to its clients through enhanced cybersecurity solutions, positioning Alias Robotics as a leader in securing robotic systems across diverse industries.
Nature of New Relationships
The partnership with Smartlog Group underscores Alias Robotics' commitment to providing robust cybersecurity measures for industrial automation. This alliance focuses on conducting cybersecurity audits, fortifying solutions against threats, and enhancing supply chain resilience to ensure product integrity. The partnership aligns with both companies' visions of integrating innovative solutions with uncompromised cybersecurity to ensure business continuity and cyber resilience.
Market Positioning and Technological Advancements
By partnering with Smartlog, Alias Robotics strengthens its position in the market as a cybersecurity leader in robotics. This collaboration not only expands Alias Robotics' service portfolio but also enhances its technological capabilities through the integration with Smartlog's advanced tech ecosystem, including 5G testing centers and AI-driven solutions. Such partnerships facilitate scaling by providing a broader reach and more comprehensive solutions for clients, leveraging the synergies between robotic cybersecurity and logistics automation.
Scaling and Technological Advancements
The relationship with Smartlog is expected to accelerate Alias Robotics' scaling by offering cybersecurity solutions to a wider client base. Technologically, this partnership will likely advance Alias Robotics' cybersecurity tools by integrating them with Smartlog's innovative logistics technologies, thereby enhancing the overall security and efficiency of robotic operations in various sectors.
Sources: - Alias Robotics
- Alias Robotics and Smartlog Group Partnership
- Strategic agreement between Alias Robotics and Smartlog Group
- Alias Robotics SL - EIC Accelerator data hub
6 The Hiring and Company Growth
Alias Robotics: Team Growth and Development After EIC Accelerator Funding
Alias Robotics, a leading robotics cybersecurity company from Spain, received significant funding from the European Innovation Council (EIC) in November 2023. This funding marked a pivotal moment for the company, positioning it for unprecedented growth and innovation in the field of robot cybersecurity.
Current Headcount and Team Size
As of the latest available information, Alias Robotics does not disclose its exact current headcount or team size. However, the company is known to have grown significantly since its founding in 2018, especially after securing substantial funding and partnerships.Hiring and Growth
Alias Robotics is likely to be hiring, given its plans for expansion and innovation following the EIC funding. The company has emphasized its commitment to advancing robotic cybersecurity, which suggests an ongoing need for talent in areas such as security research, software development, and robotics engineering.Growth and Development
The EIC funding has been instrumental in propelling Alias Robotics' growth, enabling it to accelerate research, development, and market initiatives. This financial support, comprising grants and investments, will facilitate the company's efforts to fortify its position as a leader in robotic cybersecurity.Key Positions and Future Growth
While specific recent hires are not detailed in available sources, the company's focus on innovation and expansion indicates that new team members will play crucial roles in scaling and growing the business. These roles likely include positions in cybersecurity research, product development, and business strategy, which will help Alias Robotics address the increasing demand for secure robotic systems.Management and Founding Team
There are no major changes reported in the management or founding team of Alias Robotics. The company remains led by its experienced founders, who have been instrumental in driving its success and strategic partnerships, such as the collaboration with Telefónica.Conclusion
Alias Robotics' receipt of EIC Accelerator funding has positioned the company for significant growth and innovation in the robotics cybersecurity sector. As the company continues to expand its team and operations, it is poised to play a critical role in ensuring the security of robots across various industries.Sources
- Alias Robotics
- Telefónica and Alias Robotics Team Up to Lead Robot Cybersecurity
- Alias Robotics Secures Prestigious Funding from European Innovation Council
- Alias Robotics Company Information
7 The Media Features and Publications
Media Features and Company Profile of Alias Robotics S.L. Alias Robotics S.L., a Spanish robotic cybersecurity firm headquartered in Vitoria-Gasteiz, has garnered significant media attention for its pioneering work in securing industrial and collaborative robots. Founded in 2017 by brothers David Mayoral Vilches (CEO) and Víctor Mayoral-Vilches (CTO), the company specializes in addressing critical vulnerabilities in robotic systems, particularly those using the Robot Operating System (ROS) and Data Distribution Service (DDS) middleware.Key Media Coverage and Publications
- Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities Exposure: Alias Robotics gained international recognition after uncovering over a dozen critical vulnerabilities affecting ROS 2 and DDS communications middleware, which impacted more than 650 online devices across industrial, academic, healthcare, and military sectors. Their findings were officially cited by the U.S. Cybersecurity Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
- Award-Winning Innovations: The company won the B2B Enterprise Tech prize at South Summit 2018 for its Robot Immune System (RIS), an AI-driven security solution modeled after biological immune systems to protect robots from cyberattacks.
- Partnerships: A strategic collaboration with Telefónica Tech Ventures resulted in establishing the world’s first robotic cybersecurity laboratory in Germany. This partnership aimed to scale RIS deployment globally.
Podcasts and Interviews
A notable interview featured Víctor Mayoral-Vilches on Robotics & AI Media Week (April 2025), where he discussed regulatory challenges, downtime costs (up to $20K/minute for compromised robots), and RIS capabilities. The session emphasized Europe’s evolving cybersecurity regulations mandating stricter robotics protections.
Conference Participation
While specific post-2023 events are not detailed publicly, Alias Robotics has historically engaged with international conferences:
- Research Collaborations: Their vulnerability disclosures involved partnerships with Trend Micro, TxOne Networks, ADLINK Labs, reflecting active participation in cybersecurity forums.
- Accelerator Programs: Early recognition came via pan-European initiatives like RobotUnion and Cylon cybersecurity accelerator programs.
Post-EIC Accelerator Funding Trajectory
Though direct references to their November 2023 EIC Accelerator win are absent from available sources prior to mid-2025, their pre-existing momentum includes:
- Product Development: RIS evolved as a plug-and-play solution compatible with ROS-based platforms like Softbank NAOqi or OROCOS.
- Regulatory Advocacy: Víctor Mayoral-Vilches emphasized compliance with upcoming EU regulations during public appearances, positioning Alias as a policy-influencing entity.
Note: Sources do not explicitly confirm post-November 2023 activities but highlight enduring market leadership.*
Sources Referenced
Alias Robotics discovers insecurities in ROS 2 | Named among Spain’s top startups | EU Startups directory listing | YouTube interview on robot security risks | Telefónica partnership announcement | Award-winning RIS featureDo you need EIC Accelerator support?
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