1 The EIC Accelerator Project
EIC Accelerator Program Overview
The EIC Accelerator program is a pivotal initiative under the European Innovation Council (EIC) designed to support innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups in Europe. Aimed at fostering groundbreaking technologies, particularly within the DeepTech sector, the program provides financial support in the form of blended finance, combining grants and equity investments. This multifaceted approach is crucial for companies seeking to scale their innovations and bring them to market.
Funding Structure
The EIC Accelerator offers a unique funding structure that includes both grants and equity investments. The grant portion can reach up to €2.5 million, intended to support the development and demonstration of innovative solutions. This grant is particularly beneficial for covering initial costs associated with research and development, prototyping, and market validation.
In addition to grants, the program provides equity financing, which can extend up to €15 million until 2024 and will be capped at €10 million starting in 2025. This equity investment helps startups secure the necessary capital to scale operations, expand market reach, and enhance competitiveness in an increasingly globalized market.
Purpose in the DeepTech Ecosystem
The EIC Accelerator plays a vital role in the European DeepTech and startup ecosystem by acting as a catalyst for innovation. By providing the necessary funding and support, the program encourages companies to develop cutting-edge technologies that can address pressing global challenges. The emphasis on high-risk, high-reward projects fosters an environment where groundbreaking ideas can flourish, ultimately leading to economic growth and job creation across Europe.
In addition to financial support, the EIC Accelerator also offers mentoring, coaching, and networking opportunities. This holistic approach ensures that companies are not only well-funded but also well-equipped to navigate the complexities of scaling their businesses. The program facilitates connections with private sector investors, enabling companies to leverage additional funding and resources.
Case Study: SGPR.TECH SPLOKA Z OGRANICZONA ODPOWIEDZIALNOSCIA
Project Overview: WIDMO Cities
SGPR.TECH SPLOKA Z OGRANICZONA ODPOWIEDZIALNOSCIA, a Polish company, emerged as a winner of the EIC Accelerator program with its project titled WIDMO Cities. This innovative initiative focuses on providing comprehensive subsurface information of urban areas, addressing a significant gap in urban planning and management.
Technology Basics and Background
The WIDMO Cities project aims to develop a sophisticated platform that utilizes advanced geospatial data analysis and modeling techniques to map and visualize the subsurface conditions of urban environments. This technology is particularly essential for urban planners, civil engineers, and environmental scientists who require detailed insights into the subsurface landscape for effective decision-making.
Urban areas are often characterized by complex subterranean structures, including utilities, geological formations, and historical remnants. Traditional methods of subsurface mapping can be inadequate, leading to costly mistakes during construction and urban development. The WIDMO Cities platform seeks to mitigate these risks by offering real-time, accurate data that can inform planning and development processes.
The technology behind WIDMO Cities leverages a combination of ground-penetrating radar, satellite imagery, and machine learning algorithms to create detailed subsurface models. These models can be used to visualize various layers of urban subsurface data, allowing stakeholders to identify potential challenges and opportunities in urban development.
The project's impact extends beyond just providing data; it aims to enhance sustainability and efficiency in urban management. By offering a clearer understanding of subsurface conditions, WIDMO Cities can contribute to smarter city planning, resource management, and environmental preservation.
Conclusion
The EIC Accelerator program, through its funding mechanisms and support structure, serves as a powerful enabler for innovative companies like SGPR.TECH SPLOKA Z OGRANICZONA ODPOWIEDZIALNOSCIA. With the WIDMO Cities project, the company stands to revolutionize how urban areas are understood and managed, ultimately contributing to more sustainable and efficient cities. The program's role in facilitating access to funding and resources cannot be overstated, as it continues to nurture the European DeepTech ecosystem and drive innovation across the continent.
2 The Funding Rounds
SGPR.TECH (widmo.tech) – Funding, Financing, and Exit Events Since EIC Accelerator Win
SGPR.TECH SPÓŁKA Z OGRANICZONĄ ODPOWIEDZIALNOŚCIĄ, based in Poland, is a developer of advanced ground-penetrating radar technology with strong applications in mining and construction. The company submitted its successful Step 2 proposal for the EIC Accelerator on March 22, 2023.
Financing Raised & Funding Rounds
SGPR.TECH’s funding history includes several notable rounds involving both venture capital funds and business angels:
- Early Investment by INNOventure Fund: SGPR.TECH received an early investment from INNOventure fund. This was publicly announced as of August 2019. The investment supported the company's research and development efforts to create their broadband ground-penetrating radar system coupled with machine learning-based data processing.
- Business Angel Round (Spring 2021): In May 2021, SGPR.TECH concluded another funding round involving a group of business angels associated with Ernst & Young—specifically Marek Mikitiuk, Paul Karamanoukian, and Marcel Kerkvliet—as well as at least one investor from a global AI company who chose to remain anonymous. This round was timed to facilitate the company's transition from research into commercialization.
Timing and Amounts
Precise amounts for these rounds are not fully disclosed in public sources: - By spring 2021 (“since the beginning of 2021”), the total investments attracted by INNOventure portfolio companies—including SGPR.TECH—reached PLN 12 million (approx. €2.6 million), but this sum covers multiple companies rather than just SGPR.TECH.
Investor Information
Key investors in SGPR.TECH include:
- INNOventure Fund: Provided initial venture capital backing.
- Business Angels Grouped via Ernst & Young: Including Marek Mikitiuk, Paul Karamanoukian, Marcel Kerkvliet.
- Anonymous Global AI Industry Investor(s): At least one participant remained undisclosed by name but signaled interest from leading tech sectors.
No additional institutional investors or strategic partners have been disclosed since these rounds.
Company Valuations
There is no public information available regarding explicit company valuations for any funding round or post-money valuation after EIC Accelerator success.
Exit Events: IPOs or Acquisitions
As of May 2, 2025:
The company remains privately held without reports of buyouts or secondary market transactions.
Summary Table: Key Funding Details Post-EIC Accelerator Submission
| Date | Event/Funding Round | Investors/Participants | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 2019 | Early VC Investment | INNOventure Fund | Not Disclosed | Supported R&D phase |
| May 2021 | Business Angel/AI Industry Investment | EY-affiliated angels + AI sector | Not Disclosed† | To support commercialization; some investors anonymous |
* Overall sum for all portfolio companies reached PLN12M (€2.6M); individual breakdown unavailable.
† Includes named individuals Marek Mikitiuk, Paul Karamanoukian, Marcel Kerkvliet; global AI industry investor(s) unnamed.
Conclusion
Since winning EIC Accelerator funding in March 2023:
- No new major financing rounds have been publicly disclosed beyond those mentioned above.
- No information on company valuations has surfaced.
- There have been no exit events such as IPOs or acquisitions reported up until May 2025.
SGPR.TECH continues progressing towards commercialization with support primarily from Polish venture capital and select private angel investors linked to international tech sectors.
Sources:
- Our new investment - SGPR.TECH - Passion for Innovation
- SGPR.TECH and Minte.ai have attracted new investors
3 The Press Releases
SGPR.TECH (WIDMO Spectral Technologies) Update
SGPR.TECH, now known as WIDMO Spectral Technologies, is a Polish company that received significant funding through various programs, including the European Union's Horizon 2020 SME Instrument and more recently, the EIC Accelerator in March 2023.
Technology Advancements
WIDMO Spectral Technologies is renowned for its development of innovative Spectral Ground Penetrating Radar (SGPR) technology, which allows for fast and accurate mapping of subsurface structures. This technology features frequency modulation, enabling deeper wave penetration and energy savings.
Partnerships
The company was initially established in 2019 by the INNOventure fund and a group of specialists from institutions like AGH University of Science and Technology. It has also received funding from the EIT Raw Materials Start-up & SME Booster Program and the National Center for Research and Development.
Team Updates
The company boasts a diverse team of academics and professionals with extensive experience in technology development and industrial applications. Team members have backgrounds from institutions such as PwC Drone Powered Solutions and KGHM, a major European mining company.
Funding and Grants
In addition to the EIC Accelerator funding, WIDMO has secured grants from the European Commission and other institutions. For instance, they received a 50,000 EUR grant under the Horizon 2020 SME Instrument. It is part of the larger EU Research and Innovation programme.
Branding and Expansion
The company has rebranded from SGPR.TECH to WIDMO Spectral Technologies, reflecting its expanded scope beyond georadar technology to include specialized detectors, analytical software, and geophysical services.
Press Releases and Updates
While specific press releases on their current website or social media channels were not detailed in the available information, the company's rebranding and technological advancements are highlighted in external reports. For instance, the rebranding to WIDMO emphasizes their broader focus on spectral technologies.
Sources: - Grants - WIDMO Spectral Technologies
- SGPR.TECH
- WIDMO Spectral Technologies (formerly SGPR.tech) solution now commercially available
- SGPR.TECH - BuiltWorlds
4 The Technology Advancements
SGPR.TECH SPÓŁKA Z OGRANICZONĄ ODPOWIEDZIALNOŚCIĄ: Current Capabilities and Advancements
SGPR.TECH, now rebranded as WIDMO Spectral Technologies, is a Poland-based company specializing in developing spectral ground penetrating radar (SGPR) systems and analytical technological solutions. Founded in 2018, they focus on providing high-resolution subsurface mapping, geophysical services, and advanced software for various industries, including mining, construction, and infrastructure management.
Current Capabilities
- Spectral Ground Penetrating Radar (SGPR): Their SGPR technology allows for real spectral analysis over a wide frequency range, offering high-resolution identification of subsurface structures. This is essential for accurate mapping and decision-making in industries like mining and construction.
- Geophysical Services: WIDMO provides comprehensive geophysical services that complement geological data, enhancing the accuracy of subsurface surveys.
- Advanced Analytical Software: They develop specialized software for processing and analyzing geophysical data, which is integral to their technology offerings.
Advancements Since EIC Accelerator Funding
Although specific details about advancements since receiving EIC Accelerator funding on March 22, 2023, are not explicitly mentioned in available sources, WIDMO Spectral Technologies has been actively engaged in enhancing its technology and expanding its services. They have received various grants and funding from European programs, such as Horizon 2020, which have supported their research and development activities.
Technology Improvements and Market Demonstrations
- Technology Enhancements: WIDMO continues to refine its SGPR technology, focusing on deeper wave penetration and energy efficiency. Their solutions are designed to integrate into industrial automation systems, optimizing detection performance.
- Market Demonstrations: While specific pilot projects or customer demonstrations since March 2023 are not detailed, the company's technology has been highlighted in media publications as a promising innovation in subsurface surveying.
New Patents, Scientific Studies, or Whitepapers
There is no specific information available about new patents filed, scientific studies published, or whitepapers released by WIDMO Spectral Technologies following the EIC Accelerator funding. However, the company's ongoing research and development suggest a commitment to advancing their technological offerings.
Sources: - SGPR.TECH
- Grants - WIDMO Spectral Technologies
- WIDMO Spectral Technologies (formerly SGPR.tech) solution now commercially available
- SGPR.TECH - Products, Competitors, Financials
- WIDMO Spectral Technologies
5 The Partnerships and Customers
SGPR.TECH's Strategic Partnerships and Market Positioning Post-EIC Accelerator FundingSGPR.TECH Spółka z ograniczoną odpowiedzialnością (now rebranded as WIDMO Spectral Technologies) has leveraged EU grants and collaborations to advance its spectral ground-penetrating radar (SGPR) technology. While specific customer names remain undisclosed in public records, the company’s partnerships and funding avenues highlight its trajectory in subsurface imaging innovation.
Key Partnerships and Collaborations
- EU Funding Programs: The company secured multiple grants, including a Horizon 2020 SME Instrument grant (€50k) for developing its SGPR system[^5^] and additional support from the European Institute of Innovation and Technology’s RawMaterials Booster Program[^5^]. These grants emphasize collaboration with EU entities to refine geophysical data processing software.
- Academic Institutions: Co-founded by experts from AGH University of Science and Technology, SGPR.TECH maintains strong ties with academia for R&D, particularly in radio wave propagation[^9^].
- IPR Collaboration: As noted in a CORDIS project report, WIDMO emphasized collaboration with intellectual property rights experts to safeguard their proprietary technology during development phases[^4^].
Market Positioning via New Relationships
The rebranding to WIDMO Spectral Technologies reflects an expansion beyond core SGPR offerings into specialized industrial detectors, analytical software, and geophysical services. This strategic shift positions the company as a multi-faceted provider in subsurface tomography while retaining spectral analysis as a differentiator against conventional GPR systems.Technology Advancements Supported by Partnerships
- Spectral GPR Innovation: Frequency-modulated radar technology enables deeper penetration and energy-efficient subsurface mapping compared to traditional pulse-based systems.
- Software Development: Grants like EIT RawMaterials Booster directly funded advancements in 3D modeling simulations for geophysical analysis tools.
While new customer or partner names post-2023 are not publicly disclosed yet, the company’s focus on EU-backed R&D underscores its alignment with large-scale infrastructure projects requiring non-invasive subsurface diagnostics.
Sources
- WIDMO Spectral Technologies – Spectral Ground Penetrating Radar
- SGPR.TECH | Spectral Ground Penetrating Radar
- Providing complete subsurface information of the urban areas
- Grants - WIDMO Spectral Technologies
- WIDMO Spectral Technologies solution now commercially available
6 The Hiring and Company Growth
SGPR.TECH (WIDMO Spectral Technologies) - Company Overview
SGPR.TECH, now rebranded as WIDMO Spectral Technologies, is a Polish company specializing in advanced technological solutions, particularly in the field of Spectral Ground Penetrating Radar (SGPR) and related geophysical services. The company, founded in 2018, has evolved significantly since its inception, expanding its focus beyond SGPR to include specialized detectors for factories and advanced analytical software.
Team and Growth
- Current Headcount: The company has between 11 and 50 employees, reflecting a modest but growing team size.
- Growth: Since its founding in 2018, SGPR.TECH has experienced considerable growth, both in terms of team size and technological advancements. This growth is supported by a diverse team of academics, technology, and business professionals.
- Hiring Status: There is no explicit information available on current hiring processes, but the company's expansion into new areas suggests potential recruitment in the future.
Recent Developments and Hiring
- Key Positions: While specific details about recent hires are not available, the company's expansion into new areas such as mining services and urban infrastructure planning indicates the need for specialized talent in these fields.
- Impact of New Team Members: New team members will likely play a crucial role in scaling and growing the company by contributing to the development of new technologies and services, enhancing the company's market presence, and driving innovation in subsurface surveying processes.
Management and Founding Team Changes
There is no specific information available on major changes in management or the founding team since the company received the EIC Accelerator funding in March 2023.
EIC Accelerator Funding
Winning the EIC Accelerator funding in March 2023 marks a significant milestone for SGPR.TECH, providing the resources needed to further develop their innovative technologies and expand their market reach. This funding is expected to accelerate the company's growth and enhance its position in the industry.
Future Prospects
The future of WIDMO Spectral Technologies looks promising, with a focus on integrating advanced technologies into various industries. The company's unique approach to subsurface tomography and its tailored solutions for clients are poised to drive significant growth and innovation in the sectors it serves.
Sources: - SGPR.TECH | Spectral Ground Penetrating Radar
7 The Media Features and Publications
Overview of WIDMO Spectral Technologies (formerly SGPR.TECH)
WIDMO Spectral Technologies, formerly known as SGPR.TECH, is a Polish company that specializes in the development and commercialization of spectral ground penetrating radar (SGPR) technology. It was founded in 2018 by a diverse team of academics and professionals from institutions like AGH University of Science and Technology and Jagiellonian University. The company's innovative approach focuses on providing precise subsurface mapping, which is crucial for industries such as mining, construction, and urban infrastructure management.
Media Features and Publications
SGPR.TECH, now WIDMO Spectral Technologies, has been featured in several publications highlighting its innovative solutions:
- Forbes Polska noted that the company's concept was inspired by the "Golden Train" of Wałbrzych, comparing its technology to a "Google Street View for underground structures".
- Business Insider reported on international interest in the company's technology, including from Brussels and a global giant.
- Rzeczpospolita discussed how the company's AI-powered solutions can uncover hidden treasures and contribute to Poland's innovation landscape.
Podcasts and Interviews
While there are no specific mentions of podcasts or interviews with the team in the available information, the company's innovative approach and technology have garnered significant media attention, indicating their involvement in various discussions about subsurface surveying.
Conference and Fair Visits
There is no specific information available on recent conference participations or presentations by WIDMO Spectral Technologies. However, the company's involvement in the European innovation ecosystem suggests potential participation in geophysical and technology events.
Events Involvement
WIDMO Spectral Technologies has likely participated in events related to geophysics, mining, and technology, given its specialization. However, specific details about such events are not readily available.
Funding and Awards
The company received funding from various sources, including the EIT Raw Materials Start-up & SME Booster Program and the National Center for Research and Development. Additionally, it has been an EIC Accelerator winner, marking a significant milestone in its growth and recognition.
Conclusion
WIDMO Spectral Technologies is a leading player in the development of spectral ground penetrating radar technology, contributing significantly to subsurface surveying and geophysical services. Its innovative solutions have attracted international attention and support from major funding bodies.
Sources: - WIDMO Spectral Technologies solution now commercially available
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