1 The EIC Accelerator Project

Overview of the EIC Accelerator Program

The EIC Accelerator program, part of the European Innovation Council (EIC), is a funding initiative designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups in Europe, particularly those operating in the DeepTech sector. The primary objective of the EIC Accelerator is to facilitate the development and scaling of innovative technologies that have the potential to lead to significant market impacts.

Funding Structure

The EIC Accelerator offers a dual funding model that includes both grants and equity investments. The grant component provides up to €2.5 million to cover the costs of developing innovative products, processes, or services. This non-repayable funding is crucial for companies in the early stages of development, allowing them to accelerate their projects without the immediate pressure of repayment.

In addition to grants, the EIC Accelerator provides equity funding, which serves as a financial mechanism to support further scaling. Until the end of 2024, companies can receive up to €15 million in equity investments. Starting in 2025, this amount will be adjusted to a maximum of €10 million. This equity funding is aimed at helping companies leverage additional private sector investment, thereby enhancing their financial sustainability and growth prospects.

Purpose and Impact on the Startup Ecosystem

The EIC Accelerator plays a vital role in the European DeepTech and startup ecosystem by bridging the funding gap that often exists between early-stage innovation and market entry. Through its financial support, the program encourages the development of breakthrough technologies that address pressing societal challenges. The EIC Accelerator not only provides direct financial assistance but also fosters networking opportunities, mentorship, and access to a broader ecosystem of investors and industry experts.

By empowering startups and SMEs, the EIC Accelerator contributes to job creation, economic growth, and technological advancement within Europe. It promotes a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, ultimately enhancing the competitiveness of European industries on a global scale.

Case Study: AptaTargets, S.L. and the ApTOLL Project

Company Overview

AptaTargets, S.L., based in Spain, is an innovative biotech company focused on developing novel therapeutic solutions for neurological disorders. The company aims to address significant unmet medical needs through advanced research and technology.

Project Summary: ApTOLL

The ApTOLL project, funded under the EIC Accelerator, is centered on the development of an innovative neuroprotectant designed to reduce brain damage in cases of Acute Ischemic Stroke (AIS). This condition is characterized by the sudden interruption of blood supply to the brain, leading to rapid neuronal damage and significant long-term disabilities.

Technology Background

The core of the ApTOLL project lies in the development of a neuroprotectant that acts on multiple pathways involved in neuronal injury and survival. The technology is based on a unique mechanism that enhances the brain's resilience to ischemic events. This is achieved by targeting specific cellular processes that are activated during stroke, thereby minimizing cellular damage and promoting recovery.

Research indicates that timely intervention with neuroprotective agents can significantly improve outcomes for stroke patients. By utilizing a combination of cutting-edge biochemistry and pharmacology, AptaTargets aims to develop a treatment that not only protects neurons from acute damage but also supports cellular repair mechanisms in the aftermath of an ischemic event.

Clinical Development and Future Implications

The funding received from the EIC Accelerator will enable AptaTargets to progress through critical phases of clinical development, including preclinical studies and early-phase clinical trials. The goal is to establish the safety and efficacy of ApTOLL, ultimately leading to regulatory approval and commercialization.

The potential impact of ApTOLL extends beyond individual patient outcomes; successful deployment of this neuroprotectant could transform the treatment landscape for AIS, reducing healthcare costs associated with long-term disability and improving quality of life for countless individuals.

In summary, the EIC Accelerator program plays a crucial role in supporting innovative projects like ApTOLL, aiding companies such as AptaTargets in their journey to bring transformative technologies to market. Through its comprehensive funding structure and ecosystem support, the EIC Accelerator not only fosters individual company growth but also contributes to broader societal benefits through advancements in healthcare and technology.

2 The Funding Rounds

Financing Raised and Funding Rounds

Since winning the EIC Accelerator funding on November 8, 2023, AptaTargets, S.L., a Spanish biotech company specializing in neuroprotective therapies for acute ischemic stroke (AIS), has secured multiple significant financing rounds:

• EIC Accelerator Grant: On March 11, 2024, AptaTargets announced it received €2.5 million from the European Commission under the EIC Accelerator program. This grant supports their Phase 2b clinical trial of ApTOLL in AIS patients.
• Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities (Spain): Recently awarded €4 million through a public-private consortium to advance their research and clinical development.
• Community of Madrid: On February 19, 2024, AptaTargets was granted €1.94 million by the Community of Madrid as part of Spain’s National Recovery Plan and Next Generation EU funds aimed at promoting R&D investment.

Additionally: - In early January 2023, AptaTargets received $2.55 million from the Spanish State Research Agency to support an earlier phase IIa study for Aptoll targeting acute myocardial infarction.

Timing and Amounts

Date	Source	Amount	Funding Purpose
Jan 3, 2023	Spanish State Research Agency	$2.55M	Phase IIa study in myocardial infarction
Feb 19, 2024	Community of Madrid	€1.94M	Phase IIb clinical studies in AIS
Mar 11, 2024	European Commission (EIC Accelerator)	€2.5M	Initiate Phase IIb trial with ApTOLL in AIS
Early/late '23-'24	Ministry of Science & Innovation	€4M	Public-private consortium for R&D

</em>Announcement date; selection for funding occurred following November '23 cut-off.

Investor Information

The primary investors/funders since late-2023 are:

• The European Commission via its highly selective EIC Accelerator program.
• Spain's Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities.
• The Community of Madrid.

These are government/public sector funders rather than private equity or venture capital investors.

No evidence was found indicating involvement from traditional venture capital firms or private equity funds during this period.

Additional Funding Round Details

AptaTargets’ most recent grants—particularly those from EIC Accelerator (€2.5M), Community of Madrid (€1.94M), and Ministry consortia (€4M)—are all earmarked specifically for advancing ApTOLL through more advanced clinical trials (Phase IIb) targeting neuroprotection following ischemic stroke events. The competitive nature is underscored by their selection as one out of only forty-two companies across Europe funded during this cycle.

Company Valuation

No official public data is available regarding company valuation post these rounds; public grants like those listed typically do not require formal valuation disclosures unlike equity-based or venture-led rounds.

Exit Events (IPO/Buyouts/Acquisitions)

There is no information indicating that AptaTargets has undergone any exit event such as an initial public offering (IPO), acquisition/buyout by another firm or investor group since receiving its recent wave of funding up to May 6th 2025.

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Sources:

• aptaTargets secures €2.5 million from the EU to initiate the Phase 2b clinical trial
• aptaTargets receives a €1.940 million grant from the Community of Madrid
• Biopharma grants in 2023 - BioWorld
• Unveiling the Latest EIC Accelerator Results: Nov 8th Cut-Off

3 The Press Releases

AptaTargets, S.L.: EIC Accelerator Winner

AptaTargets, S.L., a Spanish company, was one of the winners of the EIC Accelerator funding in November 2023. This prestigious award recognized AptaTargets for its innovative neuroprotectant, ApTOLL, designed to reduce brain damage in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients.

Key Developments and Funding

AptaTargets secured €2.5 million from the European Commission under the EIC Accelerator program to initiate Phase 2b clinical trials for ApTOLL. This funding is crucial for advancing the clinical development of ApTOLL, which has shown promising results in reducing brain damage by 47% and lowering mortality rates from 18% to 5% in earlier clinical studies.

In addition to the EIC funding, AptaTargets received further support from other public and private sources. The company received €4 million from the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities and €1.9 million from the Community of Madrid, underscoring the strong support for its innovative approach.

Technology and Innovation

ApTOLL acts on the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), providing a first-in-class solution by blocking the inflammatory response that occurs after an ischemic stroke. Its potential impact on improving patient outcomes and quality of life is significant, as it not only enhances survival but also leads to better functional outcomes.

AptaTargets' success in securing the EIC Accelerator funding highlights its commitment to developing groundbreaking treatments. This recognition also reflects the company's ability to navigate a highly competitive process, where only a small percentage of applicants receive funding.

Press Releases and Updates

Press releases from AptaTargets primarily focus on its funding achievements and the clinical advancements of ApTOLL. The company's website and social media platforms serve as key channels for disseminating these updates, though specific press releases on these platforms are not detailed in the available data.

Partnerships and Team Updates

While specific partnership announcements are not highlighted, the support from various public and private entities suggests a strong network of collaborators. Team updates are not explicitly mentioned, but the leadership of David Segarra, CEO and Co-Founder, has been instrumental in guiding the company through significant milestones.

Sources

• AptaTargets secures €2.5 million from the European Commission
• Aptatargets – ApTOLL
• Latest EIC Accelerator Results
• Unveiling the Latest EIC Accelerator Results

4 The Technology Advancements

Overview of AptaTargets, S.L.

AptaTargets is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Madrid, Spain. Founded in 2014, it specializes in developing innovative therapies using aptamer technology. The company's primary focus is on creating neuroprotective drugs, with its lead product, ApTOLL, aimed at reducing brain damage in conditions like acute ischemic stroke by targeting inflammation.

Advancements Since EIC Accelerator Funding

Following the receipt of EIC Accelerator funding in November 2023, AptaTargets has continued to advance its lead candidate, ApTOLL. ApTOLL has shown promising results in clinical trials, particularly in reducing brain damage in acute ischemic stroke patients. The drug is administered intravenously and has demonstrated a strong safety profile and efficacy in reducing mortality rates in clinical trials.

In 2024, the company achieved significant milestones, including a partnership agreement with a pharmaceutical company to further ApTOLL's development towards market entry. Additionally, AptaTargets received the Programa Cheque Innovación 2024 from the Community of Madrid, enabling the development of a new Phase 1a clinical trial.

Technology Improvements and Demonstrations

AptaTargets has primarily focused on refining its aptamer technology, particularly through ApTOLL, which targets Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) to modulate inflammation. This technology has been demonstrated in clinical trials, showcasing its potential in treating ischemic stroke and other conditions like intracerebral hemorrhage and myocardial infarction.

Clinical Trials and Demonstrators

The company has conducted Phase IIa clinical trials for ApTOLL in acute ischemic stroke, with preliminary data indicating safety and efficacy. These trials have involved leading hospitals across Spain, Germany, and France, further solidifying the technology's potential in clinical settings.

Patents and Scientific Publications

AptaTargets has filed several patents related to aptamers, including those specific for TLR4, highlighting its commitment to intellectual property protection. There have been presentations of clinical trial data at conferences such as the International Stroke Conference, demonstrating the company's active engagement in scientific dissemination.

Conclusion

AptaTargets continues to leverage its innovative aptamer technology, particularly through ApTOLL, to address significant medical needs. The support from the EIC Accelerator has been instrumental in advancing its clinical trials and strategic partnerships, positioning the company for further growth in the biopharmaceutical sector.

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Sources: - aptaTargets

• AptaTargets - Products, Competitors, Financials, Employees
• 6 biotech start-ups developing life-changing innovations
• Biotech Start-ups Shaping the Future of Healthcare in Europe
• aptaTargets
• World Health Day – Meet Better Medicine, aptaTargets and
• aptaTargets announces preliminary data from ApTOLL Phase 2a
• AptaTargets SL — Supplier from Spain

5 The Partnerships and Customers

AptaTargets' Strategic Partnerships and Market Positioning AptaTargets, S.L., a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Spain, has established collaborations with leading hospitals, research institutions, and biotech partners to advance its TLR4-targeting aptamer therapy ApTOLL. Key partnerships include Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, La Princesa University Hospital, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, Virgen del Rocío University Hospital, and Complutense University of Madrid. These collaborations focus on clinical development and preclinical validation of ApTOLL for ischemic stroke and other acute inflammatory conditions.

The company’s partnership with Aptus Biotech (a predecessor entity) underscores its foundational expertise in aptamer technology, while alliances with institutions like the Cajal Institute (CSIC) and the Ramón y Cajal Health Research Institute support translational research. Public funding from programs such as Spain’s EIC Accelerator, Neotec, and PID initiatives has further bolstered its financial stability.

No new customers or partnerships post-November 2023 are explicitly detailed in available materials, but the existing network positions AptaTargets as a leader in neuroprotective therapies targeting inflammation-driven damage. These relationships enhance access to clinical trial infrastructure, accelerate regulatory progress, and enable exploration of ApTOLL’s applications in intracerebral hemorrhage, myocardial infarction, and multiple sclerosis. The EIC Accelerator funding likely supports scaling manufacturing capabilities for late-stage trials while reinforcing credibility with investors.

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Sources

• aptaTargets - A Clinical-Stage Biotechnology Company
• aptaTargets Partners
• About aptaTargets

6 The Hiring and Company Growth

AptaTargets Team Growth and Scaling Following EIC Accelerator Funding AptaTargets, a Madrid-based clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in aptamer-based therapeutics, has maintained operational momentum since securing EIC Accelerator funding. While specific hiring announcements or headcount figures post-November 2023 are not publicly disclosed, available data provides insights into their team structure and growth trajectory.

• Current Headcount: Estimates suggest fewer than 25 employees, though conflicting reports indicate approximately five employees. This discrepancy may reflect differing counting methodologies or phased hiring tied to clinical trial progress.
• Team Growth: No explicit growth metrics are published, but the company’s progression into clinical stages for its lead neuroprotective drug ApTOLL (targeting ischemic stroke) implies strategic scaling in R&D and regulatory roles.
• Hiring Activity: Public job postings are not listed on their website or major platforms as of the latest updates, though ongoing trials likely necessitate specialized roles in clinical operations and partnerships.
• Key Positions: Leadership includes co-founders David Segarra (CEO) and María Eugenia Zarabozo (CFO), with Macarena Hernández Jiménez as CSO and Marc Ribó as CMO. Recent additions to these roles are unverified since late 2023.
• Future Scaling: With ApTOLL advancing through trials for stroke, myocardial infarction, and multiple sclerosis, future hires may focus on commercialization, manufacturing scalability, and international regulatory compliance. The $8.92M total funding—including grants from CDTI Inveready—supports this expansion.

No major management changes have been reported since the EIC Accelerator win in November 2023. The company’s patent portfolio (e.g., TLR-4-targeting aptamers) positions it competitively within Spain’s growing aptamers market, projected to reach $379.8M by 2030, further incentivizing talent acquisition.

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Sources
AptaTargets - CB Insights
AptaTargets Official Website
AptaTargets SL – DevelopmentAid Profile
AptaTargets ZoomInfo Profile
Craft.co AptaTargets Profile [Note: URL corrected based on search result content]
Nucleic Acid Aptamers Market Report
AptaTargets Newsroom [Note: URL likely intended as https://aptatargetls.com/newsroom/, but domain appears incorrect; original source uses https://aptatargetls.com/newsroom/]
Spain Aptamers Market Forecast [Link non-functional; redirect issue noted.*]

7 The Media Features and Publications

AptaTargets, S.L., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Madrid, Spain, has garnered significant attention in media features, publications, and industry events since winning the EIC Accelerator funding following their Step 2 proposal submission on November 8, 2023.

Media Features and Publications

AptaTargets is recognized for its innovative therapeutic approach using aptamer technology to develop treatments targeting inflammation in acute conditions such as ischemic stroke. Their lead product candidate, ApTOLL, is a neuroprotective drug that blocks TLR4 activation and has completed Phase 2a clinical trials with promising results showing substantial reduction of brain damage in stroke patients. This progress has been highlighted in interviews and detailed articles focused on their therapeutic innovation and clinical pipeline.

Notably:

• The company was featured in an interview with CEO David Segarra on GENESIS Biomed (October 2024), where he discussed ApTOLL’s development stages including ongoing plans for Phase 2b trials targeting ischemic stroke as well as new indications like myocardial infarction.
• AptaTargets appears among top biotechnology startups in Spain according to Eu-Startups (2021), emphasizing their role as an innovative biopharmaceutical firm developing transformative therapeutics.
• Clinical research related to stroke treatment outcomes involving inflammation modulation connects indirectly with AptaTargets’ focus but no direct publication by the company itself was detected beyond coverage of its drug development efforts.

Podcasts or Interviews

The most prominent media interaction found is the detailed interview with CEO David Segarra at GENESIS Biomed (October 2024). In this discussion:

• David elaborates on the mechanism of ApTOLL.
• Reviews past achievements including successful completion of Phase 2a trial APRIL.
• Describes future clinical trial plans such as APRIL II (Phase 2b), RACETOLL (ambulance administration), and APSTEMI (myocardial infarction).

No other specific podcasts or interviews involving other team members were identified from available sources.

Conference Participations and Events

While explicit records of conference presentations or fair participations by AptaTargets are not directly mentioned within accessible sources post-EIC Accelerator win date, some contextual clues include:

• As a leading biotech startup featured among Spain’s top biotech firms by Eu-startups(2021), it is typical for companies at this stage to participate regularly at conferences focusing on biotechnology innovation.
• The involvement often extends to presenting pipeline updates or networking at health sector events linked with European research funding programs like Horizon Europe which AptaTargets has experience working under.

However, no concrete citations confirm exact conference names or dates after late 2023 relevant to their EIC Accelerator award period.

Involvement in Events

Besides potential presence at biotech fairs implied by industry recognition, there are no explicit details about specific event sponsorships or organizational roles played by AptaTargets found from current data since November 2023. Their primary public engagement remains through scientific communications like interviews explaining developmental milestones for ApTOLL.

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Summary

Since securing EIC Accelerator funding after November 8th, 2023:

• AptaTargets has been prominently profiled through expert interviews spotlighting its breakthrough aptamer-based neuroprotective drug candidate ApTOLL.
• It maintains visibility within Spanish biotech circles acknowledged as an innovative leader.
• Direct evidence of conference participations or podcasts beyond the CEO interview remains limited publicly but likely exists given typical sector practices.

This paints a picture of a fast-progressing clinical-stage biotechnology firm focused strongly on communicating key R&D advances while preparing further clinical validations underpinned by prestigious European innovation support.

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Sources

• aptaTargets official website
• Our Team - aptaTargets
• CB Insights - aptaTargets profile
• DevelopmentAid - AptaTargets SL
• Legal Notice - Aptatargets
• Interview David Segarra – CEO & Co-Founder | GENESIS Biomed
• Eu-startups: Top Biotechnology Startups & Companies in Spain