1 The EIC Accelerator Project
The EIC Accelerator program, part of the European Innovation Council (EIC), plays a pivotal role in fostering innovation and scaling up deep-tech startups across Europe. Targeting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-cap companies, the program is designed to support the commercialization of breakthrough technologies and innovative solutions.Funding Structure
The EIC Accelerator offers a unique blend of financial support to innovative companies through grants and equity investments. The grant component can reach up to €2.5 million, intended to cover early-stage development costs, including research, testing, and market validation. This non-dilutive funding allows companies to progress without immediate pressures from equity stakes.
In addition to grants, the program provides equity investments to help companies scale. Initially, this equity could reach up to €15 million until 2024, after which it will be capped at €10 million starting in 2025. This investment mechanism is particularly beneficial as it provides substantial financial resources while also allowing for potential private sector funding to be leveraged.
Purpose in the Ecosystem
The EIC Accelerator's primary aim is to enhance the European deep-tech and startup ecosystem by bridging the gap between innovative ideas and market-ready products. By offering significant financial backing, the program encourages startups to take bold steps in developing unique solutions that can address pressing societal challenges. Furthermore, the EIC Accelerator helps companies build credibility and visibility, making them more attractive to private investors.
Role in Scaling and Funding
The EIC Accelerator acts as a catalyst for companies to scale their operations and secure additional funding from private sectors. By providing substantial initial funding, the program enables startups to complete crucial developmental milestones. This, in turn, makes them more appealing to venture capitalists and other investors, who often seek to invest in companies with proven technology and market viability. The EIC Accelerator also offers mentoring and networking opportunities, connecting founders with experienced professionals and potential partners to facilitate growth.
Case Study: Angiolutions GmbH
Angiolutions GmbH, a German company, emerged as a winner of the EIC Accelerator for their project STAAART SmarT (SmarT Abdominal Aortic AneuRysm Treatment). Their innovative project focuses on developing the world's first device-based treatment for small abdominal aortic aneurysms, representing a revolutionary new treatment paradigm in the medical field.
Project Overview
The STAAART SmarT project aims to address a significant medical issue: abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), which can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Current treatment options often involve invasive surgical procedures, which may not be suitable for all patients, particularly those with smaller aneurysms.
Technological Background
The technology behind Angiolutions' approach integrates advanced medical device engineering with innovative therapeutic methodologies. The STAAART device is designed to facilitate a minimally invasive treatment option, thereby reducing recovery time and associated risks for patients. By using a device that can be deployed through small incisions, the treatment aims to stabilize the aneurysm and prevent it from growing, thereby lowering the risk of rupture.
The device leverages cutting-edge materials and design principles that allow for precise placement within the vascular system, coupled with real-time monitoring capabilities. This technology combines imaging and therapeutic functions, offering a comprehensive solution that can be adapted to various patient needs.
In summary, Angiolutions GmbH's STAAART SmarT project is not only a testament to the potential of innovative healthcare solutions but also exemplifies the type of groundbreaking initiatives that the EIC Accelerator seeks to support. Through its funding and resources, the EIC Accelerator is actively contributing to the advancement of medical technologies that can significantly improve patient outcomes while fostering a vibrant startup ecosystem in Europe.
2 The Funding Rounds
Financing Raised
Angiolutions GmbH, a German medtech startup focused on early-stage abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) treatment, has raised significant funding since its inception:
- In July 2023, Angiolutions secured a €2.5 million European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator grant. This is non-dilutive funding aimed at accelerating the development and commercialization of their innovative device for early-stage AAA.
- The EIC Accelerator grant consists of both grant and potential equity/investment components; however, publicly available information confirms only the €2.5 million direct non-dilutive grant component as of now.
Funding Rounds
Angiolutions has completed at least two major funding rounds since its founding:
- Seed Round: Announced in February 2021.
- EIC Accelerator Grant: Announced in July 2023.
Seed Round Details
- Date: February 17, 2021
- Amount: Not explicitly disclosed in public sources.
- Investors:
- High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF)
- FRIBA Investment (German Single Family Office)
- NBank Capital
This seed financing enabled Angiolutions to complete critical research and development steps necessary for their first-in-human studies.
EIC Accelerator Grant Details
- Announcement Date: July 27, 2023
- Amount: €2.5 million (non-dilutive)
The EIC Accelerator program is highly competitive; only about one-tenth of applicants received grants during this cycle. The funds are intended to support clinical validation and advance the company toward regulatory approval and commercialization.
Timing and Amounts of Funding Rounds
| Round | Date | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seed | Feb 17, 2021 | Not disclosed | Equity |
| EIC Grant | Jul 27, 2023 | €2.5 million | Non-dilutive |
No further details regarding additional rounds or amounts have been made public as of May 2025.
Investor Information
The following investors participated in Angiolutions’ seed round:
- High-Tech Gründerfonds – A leading German venture capital fund specializing in early-stage tech startups.
- FRIBA Investment – A German single-family office with investments across private equity and venture capital.
- NBank Capital – A regional investment firm supporting innovative companies in Germany.
No new institutional investors have been announced since the seed round or as part of the EIC grant.
Information Related to Funding Rounds
According to project reporting from CORDIS/EU sources:
Key milestones achieved with these funds include:
- Establishing robust operational processes
- Advancing device delivery systems
- Developing an implantation planning algorithm
- Initiating verification/validation for regulatory compliance
- Preparing for clinical studies with trial protocol development underway
The upcoming Series A will specifically target scaling up activities after successful clinical study completion—no timing or investor names for this future round are yet disclosed as of May 2025.
Company Valuations
There is no public disclosure regarding Angiolutions' post-money valuations from either its seed round or following receipt of the EIC Accelerator funding.
Exit Events (IPO/Buyouts/Acquisitions)
As of May 05, 2025:
Angiolutions remains privately held. There have been no reported IPOs, buyouts, or acquisitions involving the company since it received its EIC Accelerator award on March 22, 2023 submission date through today. All current signals point toward continued independent operations focused on product development and market entry rather than immediate exit activity.
Sources: €2.5 M European Innovation Council grant - Angiolutions World's first device-based treatment for small abdominal aortic ... HTGF Investment Angiolutions Angiolutions - Products, Competitors, Financials ... CB Insights
3 The Press Releases
Angiolutions GmbH Secures €2.5M EIC Accelerator Grant to Advance Aortic Aneurysm Treatment Angiolutions GmbH, a Bavaria-based medtech company, was awarded a €2.5 million non-dilutive grant under the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program in July 2023 following its successful application in the March 2023 cut-off. The funding will accelerate clinical studies and commercialization of its minimally invasive implant designed to halt abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) progression—a condition affecting 1 in 20 people globally, often leading to fatal ruptures if untreated.Technology and Clinical Impact
The company’s patented implant uses a nickel-titanium alloy (Nitinol) to absorb aortic pulse waves that drive aneurysm growth. Inserted via catheter under local anesthesia, the device acts as a mechanical shield, preventing further dilation of the aorta at early disease stages. This addresses a critical unmet need: existing interventions only target late-stage AAAs with high-risk surgical procedures. Angiolutions aims to eliminate reliance on these unreliable treatments by commercializing its solution by late 2025.Strategic Milestones and Team
Co-CEOs Dr. Isabel N. Schellinger and Dr. Uwe Raaz emphasized the grant’s role in accelerating regulatory approvals and clinical validation. Marius Rummel, Chief Business Officer, highlighted plans to expand market entry efforts using EIC funding. The team includes experts in interventional cardiology and vascular biology who developed the technology based on academic research linking pulse-wave mechanics to AAA progression.Sources
- NEWS: €2.5 M European Innovation Council grant - Angiolutions
- STAAART - BayFOR
- These are the winners of EIC Accelerator's second 2023 call - EurA AG
4 The Technology Advancements
Angiolutions GmbH: Post-EIC Accelerator Progress and Technological Advancements Angiolutions GmbH, a German medtech startup specializing in early-stage abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) treatment, has advanced significantly since securing the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator grant in March 2023. The €2.5 million non-dilutive funding has accelerated their development pipeline, focusing on clinical validation and market readiness for their minimally invasive vascular implant.Core Capabilities and Post-Funding Milestones
The company’s flagship technology involves a Nitinol-based vascular implant delivered via catheter to mechanically shield early-stage AAAs from aortic pulse waves, preventing further growth. Since receiving EIC funding:- Clinical Development: Angiolutions prioritized completing clinical studies to validate safety and efficacy. While specific trial phases or results remain undisclosed, the grant explicitly supports these efforts.
- Market Entry Strategy: The company aims to commercialize its treatment by late 2025, leveraging EIC resources to streamline regulatory compliance and manufacturing scalability.
- Intellectual Property: A second US patent was granted post-EIC award, strengthening global IP protection.
Technological Enhancements and Market Demonstration
Publicly available data does not detail new technical features beyond the core implant design. However, Angiolutions emphasizes that its approach addresses the root cause of AAA progression—a unique value proposition compared to existing late-stage interventions. There is no explicit mention of customer pilots or demonstrators yet; however, clinical trials are implied as active given the stated use of EIC funds.Research Outputs and Regulatory Progress
No peer-reviewed studies or whitepapers have been announced since mid-2023. However, ongoing trial data will likely inform future publications as part of commercialization efforts. The EIC’s rigorous review process required Angiolutions to demonstrate societal impact—including reducing dependency on high-risk surgeries—which remains central to their messaging.Sources
- News & Updates - Angiolutions
- STAAART - BayFOR
- EIC Accelerator Grant Announcement
- EIC Accelerator Winners Overview
5 The Partnerships and Customers
Angiolutions GmbH, a German company, was selected as one of 172 European start-ups to receive funding from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator in 2023. This significant funding will enable Angiolutions to fast-track its groundbreaking treatment for small abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs), aiming to bring its technology to market by the end of 2025.Partnerships and Customers
Currently, there is no specific information available regarding new partners or customers of Angiolutions GmbH. However, the company's collaboration with the Bavarian Research Alliance (BayFOR) has been instrumental in securing the EIC Accelerator funding. BayFOR supported Angiolutions through the application process, providing expertise and training sessions to prepare for the pitch in front of the EIC Accelerator jury.
New Relationships and Market Position
The EIC funding will position Angiolutions GmbH as a leading innovator in the treatment of aortic aneurysms, allowing it to expand its reach in the European and international markets. This funding will not only advance its technology but also support its goal of providing relief to hundreds of thousands of patients worldwide who are living with early-stage AAAs.
Technology Advancements and Scaling
The financial support from the EIC Accelerator will be crucial for Angiolutions in scaling its operations and advancing its technology. By developing a device to treat small AAAs, Angiolutions aims to offer a less invasive alternative toassistant
Angiolutions GmbH, a German company, was selected as one of 172 European start-ups to receive funding from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator in 2023. This significant funding will enable Angiolutions to fast-track its groundbreaking treatment for small abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs), aiming to bring its technology to market by the end of 2025.
Partnerships and Customers
Currently, there is no specific information available regarding new partners or customers of Angiolutions GmbH. However, the company's collaboration with the Bavarian Research Alliance (BayFOR) has been instrumental in securing the EIC Accelerator funding. BayFOR supported Angiolutions through the application process, providing expertise and training sessions to prepare for the pitch in front of the EIC Accelerator jury.
New Relationships and Market Position
The EIC funding will position Angiolutions GmbH as a leading innovator in the treatment of aortic aneurysms, allowing it to expand its reach in the European and international markets. This funding will not only advance its technology but also support its goal of providing relief to hundreds of thousands of patients worldwide who are living with early-stage AAAs.
Technology Advancements and Scaling
The financial support from the EIC Accelerator will be crucial for Angiolutions in scaling its operations and advancing its technology. By developing a device to treat small AAAs, Angiolutions aims to offer a less invasive alternative to risky surgeries, enhancing patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.
Sources
6 The Hiring and Company Growth
Angiolutions GmbH: Team Growth and Scaling Post-EIC Accelerator Funding Angiolutions GmbH, a Hannover-based medtech company pioneering the first device-based treatment for small abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), has positioned itself as a critical innovator in vascular therapies since winning EIC Accelerator funding in March 2023. While specific details about current hiring activity, headcount, or recent team expansions are not publicly disclosed, insights into their operational trajectory can be inferred from available information.The company was co-founded by Dr. Isabel Schellinger and Dr. Uwe Raaz, both seasoned physicians with award-winning expertise in vascular medicine. Their leadership suggests a focus on clinical and technical excellence as the company advances its AAA therapy through development and regulatory milestones.
Key considerations for scaling include:
- Strategic hires: Given the progression of their device toward commercialization (noted in EU project documentation), roles in regulatory affairs, clinical operations, and manufacturing are likely prioritized to support trials and market entry.
- Growth indicators: The EIC Accelerator funding underscores validation of their technology’s potential, which typically attracts follow-on investments and talent acquisition to accelerate R&D cycles.
- Management stability: No changes to the founding team have been reported; continuity in leadership aligns with their mission to address unmet needs in AAA treatment.
Looking ahead, Angiolutions is poised to expand its team as it transitions from preclinical validation to clinical phases—a stage demanding specialized roles in quality assurance, supply chain logistics, and international market strategy.
Sources
- Angiolutions revolutionizes aortic aneurysm therapy
- Team - Angiolutions
- World's first device-based treatment for small abdominal aortic aneurysms
7 The Media Features and Publications
Angiolutions GmbH: Media Presence and Strategic Developments Post-EIC Accelerator Funding Angiolutions GmbH, a German medical technology startup, has garnered notable attention since securing €2.5 million in Horizon Europe EIC Accelerator funding in 2023 for its STAAART project, aimed at developing a minimally invasive implant to halt early-stage abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) progression. Below is an overview of their media features, event participation, and industry collaborations:Media Features & Publications
- MedtecLIVE Profile: Highlighted as a "dynamic medical technology start-up" addressing undetected AAA risks through innovative implants. The article details the founders' backgrounds—Dr. Isabel Schellinger (vascular regeneration specialist) and Dr. Uwe Raaz (interventional cardiologist)—and their collaboration with Marius Rummel to advance vascular therapies.
- EIC Accelerator Coverage: BayFOR’s case study emphasizes Angiolutions’ therapy as transformative for early-stage AAA patients, potentially sparing them high-risk surgeries later.
Intellectual Property & Legal Recognition
- Patent Milestones: Strengthened IP protection with a second US patent for its early AAA treatment device.
- FICPI World IP Day Competition: Dr. Schellinger secured first place in this global intellectual property competition.
Events & Conferences
Podcasts & Interviews
No publicly listed podcast appearances or interviews featuring Angiolutions’ team members were identified in the search results.Strategic Partnerships & Manufacturing
Sources Used:
- News & Updates - Angiolutions [Intellectual property highlights]
- Angiolutions fights the invisible - MedtecLIVE [Founder profiles and mission]
- STAAART - BayFOR [EIC funding details]
- Dr Isabel Schellinger wins FICPI competition - Eisenführ Speiser [IP recognition]
- MeKo Manufacturing Blog [Partnership updates]
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