1 The EIC Accelerator Project

EIC Accelerator Program Overview

The EIC Accelerator program is a key initiative within the European Innovation Council (EIC) aimed at fostering innovation and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups, particularly in the DeepTech sector. This program provides a unique blend of financial support and business acceleration services to help companies scale their innovations and bring them to the market.

Funding Structure

The EIC Accelerator funding consists of two primary components: grants and equity investments.

Purpose and Impact

The EIC Accelerator plays a vital role in the European DeepTech and startup ecosystem by addressing the funding gap that many innovative companies face during their growth stages. The program not only provides financial resources but also enhances the visibility of recipients in the market, thereby attracting additional funding from private investors. By facilitating access to both grants and equity, the EIC Accelerator empowers startups to innovate and compete on a global scale.

Support for Scaling Companies

The EIC Accelerator offers more than just financial support; it provides strategic guidance, mentorship, and networking opportunities. This multifaceted approach ensures that companies are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of scaling their operations. The program connects innovators with industry experts, potential partners, and investors, ultimately enhancing their chances of success.

EIC Accelerator Winner: ATRO Medical

Company Overview: ATRO Medical is a Netherlands-based company that specializes in developing innovative medical solutions. The company focuses on addressing unmet medical needs in orthopedics, particularly for conditions affecting the knee.

Project Acronym: AL U KNEED

Project Description: The AL U KNEED project introduces the first-in-class lateral meniscus prosthesis designed to relieve pain and restore mobility for patients suffering from Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA). This innovative device aims to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by degenerative knee conditions by providing a solution that addresses both symptoms and functional limitations.

Technology Basics and Background

The lateral meniscus is a critical component of the knee joint, serving as a shock absorber and stabilizer. Degenerative conditions such as KOA can lead to the deterioration of the meniscus, resulting in pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. Traditional treatments often fail to address the underlying issues or provide long-term relief.

The AL U KNEED project leverages advanced biomaterials and engineering techniques to create a prosthetic solution that mimics the natural function of the meniscus. The design focuses on enhancing load distribution within the knee joint, thereby reducing pain and improving overall function. Clinical studies and preclinical trials are integral to the development process, ensuring that the prosthesis meets rigorous safety and efficacy standards.

By addressing a significant gap in current orthopedic treatments, ATRO Medical's AL U KNEED project represents a transformative approach to managing KOA, positioning the company at the forefront of orthopedic innovation. The successful funding from the EIC Accelerator will enable ATRO Medical to advance its research and expedite the commercialization of this promising technology, ultimately benefiting countless patients across Europe and beyond.

In summary, the EIC Accelerator program serves as a pivotal support system for groundbreaking startups like ATRO Medical, significantly contributing to the advancement of innovative solutions in the healthcare sector.

2 The Funding Rounds

ATRO Medical: Financing and Funding Overview Since EIC Accelerator Award

ATRO Medical, based in the Netherlands, is a medical device company pioneering artificial meniscus implants. Since being awarded EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022, the company has demonstrated steady fundraising activity and continued clinical development.

Funding Raised and Rounds

• As of April 2025, ATRO Medical has raised at least $3.45 million over seven documented rounds.
• Notable funding milestones since early 2022 include:
• March 2022: European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator grant of €2.5 million.
• December 2021: Closed a €1.9 million financing round to complete the AIR2 clinical study; this preceded but set up for further rounds post-EIC award.
• April 3, 2023: Latest reported round was via a Business Plan Competition; amount undisclosed but part of the cumulative $3.45M total.
• Additional grants and accelerator support have been received from sources including EIT Health Catapult and various government programs across Europe and California.

Timing & Amounts of Key Funding Events (Post-EIC Award)

Date	Round/Source	Amount
March 2022	EIC Accelerator Grant	€2.5 million
April 3, 2023	Biz Plan Competition	Undisclosed
August 2024	N/A	€600k

(Dates reflect publicly available reporting)

In addition to these direct investments, ATRO Medical’s Series B round reached up to €7.9 million with non-dilutive sources included by mid-2020s estimates. However, full breakdowns per tranche are not all disclosed.

Investor Information

• Investors include:
• European Innovation Council (EIC)
• EIT Health Catapult
• Various government-backed incubators/accelerators from Germany, Belgium, Switzerland
• Private investment funds such as those managed by Evergreen Fund /819 Capital Partners

No individual venture capital firms or prominent angel investors are named in public records post-March 2022.

Valuations

No explicit company valuation figures post-funding are disclosed in public records or databases as of April 2025.

Exit Events: IPOs / Buyouts / Acquisitions

As of April 30th, 2025:

• There have been no reported exit events for ATRO Medical.
• The company remains privately held with its continued focus on product development and commercialization efforts for its Artimis® meniscus prosthesis.

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Summary Table: Key Post-EIC Financial Milestones

Date	Event/Funding Round	Disclosed Amount	Source(s)
Dec 17 – 21	Clinical Study Financing	€1.9M	[Radboudumc]
Mar 23 – 22	EIC Accelerator Grant	€2.5M	[Dealroom]
Apr 03 – 23	Biz Plan Competition	Part of $3.45M total  ([CB Insights])
Aug 24	N/A	€600k   ([Dealroom])

</em>Total cumulative funding across all rounds is at least $3.45M as per CB Insights reporting.

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Sources

• ATRO Medical B.V., Dealroom Profile
• Radboudumc: ATRO Medical Announces Successful Closure of Financing Round
• CB Insights: ATRO Medical Company Financials
• 819 Capital Partners Portfolio – Atro Medical
• Hamburg Dealroom Profile – Atro Medical

3 The Press Releases

ATRO Medical: Recent Developments and Achievements

Company Overview

ATRO Medical, a medical device company based in the Netherlands, has been at the forefront of innovative meniscus solutions since its founding in 2016. The company's lead product, the Artimis® meniscus prosthesis, is designed to treat chronic knee pain by replacing damaged or absent menisci with artificial ones.

Recent Achievements

• Clinical Trials and Research: ATRO Medical has initiated a clinical trial on the lateral artificial meniscus, marking the first such study worldwide. This trial involves replacing an absent meniscus in the outer knee compartment with the Artimis® prosthesis, focusing on safety and effectiveness.
• Technology Advancements: The company is collaborating with the Orthopaedic Research Laboratory (ORL) of Radboudumc on a project involving 3D-printed polycarbonate urethane (PCU) meniscus prostheses. This technology utilizes artificial intelligence to design customized prostheses based on scans of healthy menisci, providing personalized solutions for patients.
• Partnerships and Funding: ATRO Medical has received significant funding and recognition, including the Breakthrough Device Designation from the FDA and the EU Seal of Excellence. The company also won the Veterans Lead QuickFire Challenge by Johnson & Johnson Innovation and received EUROSTARS funding for an international consortium project.

Press Releases and Updates

While specific press releases or blog posts on ATRO Medical's website are not detailed, the company provides ongoing updates on its knowledge base regarding meniscus research and clinical trials. These updates highlight the innovative approaches in meniscus prosthetics and their potential impact on treating knee osteoarthritis.

Future Prospects

ATRO Medical is poised to expand its clinical studies, with plans for new trials focused on both inner and outer meniscus prostheses. These studies aim to further demonstrate the effectiveness and durability of the Artimis® prosthesis, positioning the company for significant advancements in knee care.

EIC Accelerator Funding

Having won the EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022, ATRO Medical has leveraged this support to accelerate its innovative meniscus solutions. The funding has likely contributed to the company's ongoing research and development efforts in orthopedic innovations.

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Sources: - ATRO Medical: Homepage

• Knowledge base | ATRO Medical
• ATRO Medical starts unique meniscus study - Radboudumc
• ATRO Medical Launches Artificial Meniscus Research - bonezone
• Dutch Startup Helping Vets Gets J&J Award (featuring ATRO Medical)
• Introduction to ATRO Medical
• The future of knee care: how ATRO Medical brings their meniscus prosthesis to the patient

4 The Technology Advancements

ATRO Medical's Post-EIC Accelerator Developments and Current Capabilities

Since receiving a €2.5 million EIC Accelerator grant in June 2022, ATRO Medical has advanced its meniscus prosthesis technology, expanded clinical validation, and secured additional funding. Here are the key developments:

Technology Advancements

• AI-Driven 3D Prosthesis Design: Partnered with Radboudumc’s Orthopaedic Research Laboratory to develop a 3D-printed polycarbonate urethane (PCU) meniscus prosthesis using AI. This system scans the healthy meniscus to create a patient-specific implant for the damaged knee.
• Artimis® Meniscus Prosthesis: The lead product now targets both medial (inner) and lateral (outer) meniscus replacement, with recent efforts focused on lateral compartment applications—a previously unaddressed clinical challenge.

Clinical Progress

• Lateral Meniscus Clinical Trial: Initiated a pioneering study in November 2024 to evaluate the Artimis® prosthesis for lateral meniscus replacement, marking the first global trial for artificial outer meniscus implants.
• Prior Trials: Completed enrollment for an earlier clinical study (14 patients) by October 2021, focusing on safety and feasibility. Collaborations with Sint Maartenskliniek, Mayo Clinic, and Sporthopaedicum Berlin further validate international clinical engagement.

Market Positioning & Funding

• Regulatory Milestones: Retained FDA Breakthrough Device Designation for accelerated U.S. market access and secured additional financing in late 2024/early 2025 to fund a second clinical trial for its Trammpolin®/Artimis® device.
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborated with ReumaNederland (Dutch Arthritis Society) to align development priorities with patient needs and joined forces with DSM as part of its Radboudumc spin-off heritage.

Intellectual Property & Publications

While no new patents or whitepapers are explicitly mentioned post-EIC funding:

• Earlier recognitions include Eurostars grants and Johnson & Johnson’s Quickfire Challenge award for innovation in osteoarthritis care.
• Focus remains on generating clinical evidence through trials rather than public scientific publications during this phase.

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5 The Partnerships and Customers

ATRO Medical's Strategic Partnerships and Market Positioning Post-EIC Accelerator Funding Following its €2.5 million EIC Accelerator grant in 2022, Dutch orthopedic innovator ATRO Medical has solidified key collaborations to advance its Artimis® Meniscus Prosthesis, a breakthrough implant for knee osteoarthritis patients. The company’s partnerships focus on clinical validation, funding, and commercial scalability.

Key Partnerships and Collaborations

• Dutch Arthritis Society: A strategic partnership to leverage patient expertise and accelerate development of the artificial meniscus.
• Radboud University Medical Center: Primary site for clinical trials, including the first-in-human study for the lateral meniscus prosthesis.
• Medace: Collaboration for preclinical testing infrastructure to optimize product safety and performance.
• Johnson & Johnson Innovation: Recognized as an Awardee in the Veterans Lead QuickFire Challenge (2022) for addressing military-related knee osteoarthritis.

Clinical Trial Progress

The initial 14-patient study (initiated October 2021) at Radboudumc has concluded enrollment, with new trials underway:

• Inner Meniscus Study: Focused on demonstrating long-term efficacy and pain relief outcomes.
• Outer Meniscus Study: Supported by European funding to address higher mechanical stresses in this compartment.

Funding Milestones

Beyond the EIC grant, ATRO secured additional resources through:

• EUROSTARS Consortium: €800,000+ funding for outer meniscus prosthesis development.
• FFUND Advisory Services: Grant application support that enabled successful EIC Accelerator outcomes.

Market Positioning and Technology Impact

These relationships enhance ATRO’s credibility as a leader in meniscal repair solutions. By aligning with orthopedic institutions (Radboudumc), patient advocacy groups (Dutch Arthritis Society), and innovation accelerators (J&J), ATRO is positioned to:

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6 The Hiring and Company Growth

ATRO Medical's Team Dynamics and Growth Post-EIC Accelerator Funding Since receiving the EIC Accelerator grant, ATRO Medical has focused on scaling its operations to advance its lead product, the Artimis® meniscus prosthesis. While specific headcount figures are not publicly disclosed, recent updates indicate a driven ten-person team as of late 2024. The company is actively expanding its leadership to support U.S. market entry and clinical trials following FDA Breakthrough Device Designation.

Hiring and Team Expansion

ATRO Medical is in a growth phase, emphasizing strategic hires to bolster regulatory compliance, clinical research, and commercialization efforts. Key developments include:

• CEO Recruitment: The company seeks an experienced CEO to lead fundraising, corporate partnerships, and U.S. market expansion. This role is critical for securing investments and navigating FDA submissions for Artimis®’s clinical trials.
• Specialized Roles: Recent job postings emphasize expertise in quality assurance (QA), biomechanical engineering, and clinical development. These roles aim to streamline product testing, AI-driven prosthesis design (via the 3D-Printed PCU Meniscus Prosthesis project), and multicenter trial management.
• Management Team: The existing leadership includes founder Tony van Tienen (CEO/CMO), Maarten van der Zanden (CIO), Anita Brinks (COO), a QA Manager/Biomechanical Engineer, Clinical Field Director, Senior Scientist, and Biomedical Engineer/Clinical Development Director. No major changes in founding team composition have been reported since 2021–2024 updates.

Growth Trajectory Post-Funding

The EIC Accelerator grant has enabled ATRO Medical to:

• Advance Clinical Trials: Initiate the first-in-human study for its lateral meniscus prosthesis at Radboud University Medical Center (14 patients enrolled by 2021; study now closed).
• Leverage AI-Driven Innovation: Partner with Radboudumc’s Orthopaedic Research Lab on a 3D-printed meniscus design using AI modeling from healthy knee scans. This collaboration aims to personalize implants while reducing costs.

Future Scaling Strategy

New hires will focus on:

• Regulatory Milestones: Ensuring compliance with EU MDR standards while preparing FDA submissions for U.S. trials.
• Market Access Partnerships: Engaging insurers early through collaborations like those with the Dutch Arthritis Society to secure reimbursement pathways pre-launch.

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Sources

ATRO Medical Homepage | About Us | Radboudumc Partnership | CEO Vacancy Announcement

7 The Media Features and Publications

ATRO Medical's Post-EIC Accelerator Milestones and Media Presence Since receiving the EIC Accelerator grant, ATRO Medical has advanced its mission to address chronic knee pain through its Artimis® meniscus prosthesis, with notable media coverage, research publications, and event participation.

Media Features and Publications

• Briskr.nl highlighted ATRO’s collaboration with Radboudumc for lateral meniscus studies and their search for investors, emphasizing the implant’s role in restoring knee function.
• Bonezone reported on the October 2024 launch of the EARTH study for the lateral meniscus prosthesis, detailing its polycarbonate urethane design and minimally invasive implantation.
• Novio Tech Campus covered the AIR2 study (medial meniscus) initiation in November 2024, focusing on patient eligibility criteria and partnerships with Dutch hospitals.

Podcasts and Interviews

No specific podcasts featuring ATRO Medical team members were identified in available sources. However, Chief Implementation Officer Maarten van der Zanden has publicly discussed clinical trial progress during media engagements.

Conference Participation & Events

ATRO Medical actively collaborates with medical institutions like Radboud University Medical Center for clinical trials but no direct conference presentations or fair visits are explicitly mentioned. Their work is frequently disseminated through partner channels (e.g., Briskr.nl) rather than industry conferences.

Key Developments Since EIC Funding (2022)

• EARTH Study: Launched in October 2024 to evaluate lateral meniscus prosthesis safety/effectiveness at Radboudumc (16 patients).
• AIR2 Study: Fully enrolled medial meniscus trial using an improved implant design to reduce pain post-meniscectomy[⁴︎].
• Material Innovation: Transitioned to durable polycarbonate urethane implants via keyhole surgery (<1 hour procedure)[²︎][⁴︎].

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Sources Used:

• The future of knee care: how ATRO Medical brings their meniscus prosthesis to patients - Interview with Maarten van der Zanden.
• ATRO Medical Launches Artificial Meniscus Research - Bonezone article on EARTH study.
• ATRO Medical starts new trial with meniscus prosthesis - Novio Tech Campus coverage of AIR2 study.