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 Europe, particularly those working on deep tech innovations. The primary aim of the EIC Accelerator is to provide funding and support to facilitate the growth of high-risk, ambitious projects that have the potential for significant societal and economic impact. By fostering innovation, the program seeks to strengthen Europe’s position as a global leader in technology and innovation.

Funding Structure of the EIC Accelerator

The EIC Accelerator offers a dual funding mechanism that includes both grants and equity investments. The grant component provides up to €2.5 million, which can be utilized for various stages of product development, including prototype creation, testing, and market entry. This non-dilutive funding allows companies to advance their innovative projects without giving up equity in the early stages.

The equity component is particularly significant, offering investments of up to €15 million until 2024 and reducing to €10 million thereafter. This equity investment is aimed at supporting companies in scaling their operations and bridging the funding gap often faced when transitioning from early-stage development to market readiness. Through this dual funding approach, the EIC Accelerator helps startups secure the financial resources necessary to achieve their growth objectives and attract additional investment from private sectors.

Purpose of the EIC Accelerator

The EIC Accelerator plays a crucial role in the European DeepTech and startup ecosystem by providing targeted financial support and fostering collaboration between innovative companies and private investors. It aims to reduce barriers to entry for startups and SMEs, facilitating their access to capital, networks, and expertise. By supporting high-potential innovations, the EIC Accelerator contributes to job creation, economic growth, and the development of cutting-edge technologies that address pressing societal challenges.

Role in Scaling and Funding

The EIC Accelerator serves as a catalyst for companies seeking to scale their operations. By offering substantial funding and guidance, the program allows startups to refine their business models, expand their market reach, and enhance their technological capabilities. Additionally, by validating their projects through the EIC Accelerator framework, companies can increase their attractiveness to private investors, thus securing further funding to sustain their growth trajectory. This symbiotic relationship between public funding and private investment is vital for fostering a thriving innovation landscape in Europe.

EIC Accelerator Winner: Tampon Innovations Ltd

Tampon Innovations Ltd, a Bulgarian company, was awarded the EIC Accelerator funding for its project titled VMS (Vaginal Microbiome Screening). The project focuses on the commercialization and scale-up of a groundbreaking vaginal microbiome screening service, utilizing a menstrual tampon collection device paired with a digital platform. This innovative approach aims to provide comprehensive diagnostics, disease risk evaluation, and aftercare for women's reproductive health.

Project Overview: VMS - Vaginal Microbiome Screening

The VMS project represents a significant advancement in women's health, addressing the critical need for accessible and accurate screening methods for vaginal microbiome health. By leveraging a menstrual tampon as a collection device, the project simplifies the process of obtaining samples, making it more user-friendly and less invasive. The accompanying digital layer enhances the service by offering personalized health insights, allowing users to understand their microbiome status and associated health risks.

Technology Basics and Background

The technology underlying the VMS project is rooted in microbiome research, which has gained momentum as a vital area of study in recent years. The vaginal microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining reproductive health, influencing everything from menstrual health to susceptibility to infections. An imbalance in the vaginal microbiome can lead to various health issues, including bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections.

Tampon Innovations Ltd's approach integrates advanced microbiological analysis with user-friendly technology. The menstrual tampon serves as a discreet and effective method for collecting vaginal samples, which are then analyzed using sophisticated diagnostic techniques. The digital platform provides users with actionable insights, enabling them to monitor their health and receive timely interventions or recommendations based on their microbiome status.

The EIC Accelerator funding paves the way for Tampon Innovations Ltd to scale its innovative solution, ensuring that women have access to essential health services that prioritize convenience, accuracy, and personalized care. Through this project, the company aims to redefine the landscape of women's health diagnostics, contributing to improved health outcomes and empowering women to take control of their reproductive health.

2 The Funding Rounds

# Tampon Innovations Ltd: Funding Journey and Financial Overview

Tampon Innovations Ltd, also known as Daye, is a health and wellness company focused on bridging the gender gap in medical research and innovation, particularly in the area of gynaecological health. Founded in 2017 by Valentina Milanova, the company has been working to transform an area of medical research that has historically been underfunded.

EIC Accelerator Funding

Tampon Innovations Ltd was selected as a winner in the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program following the January 11, 2023 cut-off. The company's project, "VMS – Vaginal Microbiome Screening," received funding for commercialization. The EIC Accelerator provides substantial support to innovative companies, with a combination of grants and equity investments.

While the exact amount allocated specifically to Tampon Innovations Ltd is not specified in the search results, it's worth noting that the EIC Accelerator January 2023 cut-off funded multiple companies. The EIC Accelerator typically provides significant funding to selected companies, with many receiving a blended finance option combining grants and equity investments.

Previous Funding Rounds

Prior to the EIC Accelerator funding, Tampon Innovations Ltd (Daye) secured several funding rounds:

Seed Round (2019)

• The company received seed funding in 2019
• The exact amount of this seed round is not specified in the search results

Series A Round (2022)

• Completed in late 2022 (announced on November 1, 2022)
• The funding round attracted new investors including Hambro Perks, Cross-Border Impact Ventures, and MassMutual Ventures
• The exact amount raised in this Series A round is not specified in the search results

Use of Funding

The company has strategically used its funding to advance several key initiatives:

• Launched its inaugural product, CBD-infused tampons to ease cramping, in 2019
• Developed a microbiome screening tampon as part of its gynecological health platform
• The Series A funding was specifically allocated to launch the vaginal microbiome screening kit and expand its wider gynae health support platform

• The Series A funding was partly intended for a phased expansion into the US market
• The company planned to make its "naked tampon" (without CBD oil) and probiotics available in the US immediately after funding, with a broader platform launch planned for early 2023

• Exploring B2B sales channels to allow workplaces to provide access to Daye's services as employee benefits
• This strategic shift was partly in response to the cost of living crisis affecting consumer confidence, as well as a growing trend of women demanding access to free period care and gynaecological health services from employers

Market Context

The company operates in the global tampons market, which was valued at US$ 3.52 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a rate of 4.73% through 2024 to 2030, reaching nearly US$ 4.87 billion. This indicates a growing market opportunity for innovative companies like Tampon Innovations Ltd.

Current Status

As of May 2025, Tampon Innovations Ltd continues to operate in the women's health space with its innovative products. The company's journey from seed funding in 2019 through Series A in 2022 and the EIC Accelerator funding in 2023 demonstrates a consistent ability to attract investment for its mission to revolutionize gynaecological healthcare.

No information about company valuations, exit events such as IPOs, buyouts, or acquisitions was available in the search results. Similarly, the specific amounts raised in each funding round were not detailed in the provided information.

Sources: - EIC Accelerator winners and statistics January 2023 - Strata.team

• Daye's Series A funding round secures future of medical innovation for gynaecological health
• Tampons Market: Global Industry Analysis & Forecast (2024-2030)
• Flush with Series A funding, Daye unwraps the big gynae health mission
• EIC Accelerator final 2023 cut-off funds 42 companies with up to €285 million

3 The Press Releases

Tampon Innovations Ltd: A Deep Dive into Their EIC Accelerator Funding

Tampon Innovations Ltd, a Bulgarian company, was one of the recipients of the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding in January 2023. The company successfully secured funding for its innovative project, VMS – Vaginal Microbiome Screening, which focuses on the commercialization and scale-up of a vaginal microbiome screening service. This service utilizes a menstrual tampon collection device and a digital layer to provide diagnosis, disease risk evaluation, and aftercare.

Project Overview

The VMS project by Tampon Innovations Ltd is designed to revolutionize menstrual health by integrating technology with traditional menstrual products. The company's approach involves using tampons as a tool not just for absorbing menstrual fluid but also for health monitoring and diagnostics. By leveraging digital platforms, they aim to enhance diagnosis accuracy and provide personalized health insights to users.

Funding Type

Tampon Innovations Ltd received funding under the "Grant first" category, which indicates that the initial funding is provided as a grant, potentially followed by equity investment if certain milestones are met.

Technology Advancements

The technology behind Tampon Innovations' VMS involves advanced diagnostic tools embedded in tampons. This innovation aligns with broader trends in the period product industry, where smart and health-tracking tampons are emerging as a key area of development. These smart tampons can monitor menstrual flow, pH levels, and even detect potential infections, offering users personalized health monitoring solutions through smartphone apps and data analytics.

Partnerships and Team Updates

While specific partnerships or team updates for Tampon Innovations Ltd are not detailed in the available information, their participation in the EIC Accelerator suggests a strong focus on innovation and collaboration within the European innovation ecosystem.

Press Releases and Updates

As of the latest available information, there are no specific press releases or updates on Tampon Innovations' website or social media channels regarding their EIC Accelerator funding beyond the general announcement of their selection for funding.

Conclusion

Tampon Innovations Ltd's success in securing EIC Accelerator funding highlights its innovative approach to menstrual health technology. The company's VMS project represents a significant leap in integrating health monitoring capabilities into menstrual products, aligning with broader market trends towards smart and health-tracking solutions.

Sources

• "EIC Accelerator winners and statistics January 2023"
• "EIC Accelerator Results January 2023"
• "Tampon Market Share, Market Size & Growth Trends"
• "Period Product Innovation"

4 The Technology Advancements

Tampon Innovations Ltd, a Bulgarian company focused on revolutionizing women's healthcare through innovative diagnostic solutions, has made significant strides with its EU-funded VMS (Vaginal Microbiome Screening) project. While specific details about their EIC Accelerator funding timeline in early 2023 are not explicitly outlined in available sources, recent advancements demonstrate progress across multiple fronts:

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Technological Advancements

The company has developed a proprietary tampon-based diagnostic system for detecting HPV and other infections, validated through clinical trials with NHS partners. Their approach replaces traditional speculum examinations with self-administered tampons that collect vaginal microbiome data. Key innovations include:

• DNA extraction methods optimized for tampon-collected samples to ensure accuracy comparable to clinical swabs.
• Integrated digital platform providing test results via an app, telemedicine consultations, and personalized treatment plans.

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Market Demonstrations and Clinical Validation

• Clinical trials conducted with Liverpool Women’s Hospital and NHS Lothian confirmed the tampon’s efficacy in detecting STIs and bacterial vaginosis.
• User adoption: Over 50% of participants in their screening programs were first-time users of preventive gynecological services, with 78% reporting reduced barriers to access.

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Intellectual Property and Research Outputs

While no new patents or peer-reviewed studies are explicitly mentioned post-EIC funding:

• A biobank of anonymized samples was established to support research into endometriosis, PCOS, and other conditions.
• The VMS project emphasizes ongoing collaboration with academic institutions to refine diagnostic algorithms.

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Post-Funding Trajectory

Though direct evidence of EIC Accelerator outcomes (e.g., revenue growth) is unavailable for Tampon Innovations specifically:

• EIC-backed companies typically achieve ~68% revenue growth within two years post-funding, suggesting potential scalability.
• The company’s focus on at-home diagnostics aligns with broader market trends toward decentralized healthcare solutions.

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Sources: The tampon leading a women's health revolution | Tampons for STI screening trial | EIC Impact Report 2023

5 The Partnerships and Customers

Tampon Innovations Ltd (Anne's Day Ltd) Strategic Partnerships and Market Positioning Tampon Innovations Ltd, operating as Anne's Day Ltd (owner of the Daye brand), has positioned itself as a leader in sustainable, health-focused menstrual care. While specific partnerships post-EIC Accelerator win aren't explicitly detailed in available data, the company’s public profile highlights critical alliances and innovations:

• Regulatory Challenges: In January 2025, the FDA issued a warning letter to Anne's Daye Ltd following a facility inspection and website claims review, indicating active engagement with regulatory bodies as part of scaling efforts.
• Core Partnerships:
• B Corp Certification: The company maintains B Corp status, reflecting alignment with sustainability-focused organizations.
• Manufacturing Networks: Though not explicitly named, collaborations with organic material suppliers are implied by their plastic-free, compostable product lines.

Technology Advancements
Daye’s flagship innovation includes an at-home diagnostic tampon for detecting infections like STIs and HPV, supported by proprietary probiotics targeting recurrent vaginal infections. These advancements align with their mission to bridge the gender health gap through biotech integration.

Market Positioning Post-EIC Funding
The EIC Accelerator funding likely accelerated R&D for diagnostic tools and scalability of their organic product line. By emphasizing sustainability (100% organic materials) and health-tech integration, Tampon Innovations targets niche markets prioritizing eco-consciousness and preventative healthcare.

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Sources

• Anne's Day Ltd - Certified B Corporation
• FDA Warning Letter to Anne's Daye Ltd

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Note: No direct customer or new partner names were identified post-2023 EIC win beyond existing certifications or regulatory interactions.

6 The Hiring and Company Growth

Tampon Innovations Ltd, based in Bulgaria, received funding from the EIC Accelerator in January 2023. However, there is limited publicly available information regarding their current headcount, team size, hiring status, growth rate, key positions recently hired, changes in management, or the impact of new team members on their future growth.

Overview of Tampon Innovations Ltd

Tampon Innovations Ltd operates under the brand name YourDaye, which focuses on innovative feminine hygiene products. The EIC Accelerator funding is a significant milestone that can support the company's growth and strategic expansion in the market.

Current Status

• Hiring or Team Growth: There is no specific information available on whether Tampon Innovations Ltd is currently hiring or how the team has grown since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding.
• Current Headcount and Team Size: The current headcount and team size are not publicly disclosed.
• Key Positions Recently Hired: Details on recent hires are not available.
• Changes in Management or Founding Team: No information on major changes in management or the founding team is available.
• Growth and New Team Members: While the funding should enhance their ability to scale and grow, specific details on how new team members contribute to this growth are not provided.

Future Prospects

Given the competitive landscape of the feminine hygiene market, where companies like Procter & Gamble and Kimberly-Clark lead, innovative companies like Tampon Innovations Ltd can leverage EIC funding to focus on sustainable and technologically advanced products. This could help them attract talent and scale their operations effectively, especially in regions with growing demand for modern menstrual products.

Conclusion

While specific details about Tampon Innovations Ltd's hiring and team growth are scarce, the EIC Accelerator funding is a strong indicator of their potential for expansion and innovation in the feminine hygiene sector.

Sources: - YourDaye Website

Note: The search results did not provide specific information about Tampon Innovations Ltd.

7 The Media Features and Publications

Media Coverage and Public Engagement of Tampon Innovations Ltd (Daye) Tampon Innovations Ltd, operating under the brand Daye, gained recognition as an EIC Accelerator winner in January 2023 for its Vaginal Microbiome Screening (VMS) service and innovative menstrual health products. Below is a detailed breakdown of its media presence and public engagements:

Media Features

• EIC Accelerator Announcements: The company’s win was highlighted in EIC funding reports, emphasizing its VMS service development using menstrual tampons for microbiome analysis.
• TechCrunch Podcast: Founder Valentina Milanova appeared on TechCrunch’s Found podcast in December 2022, discussing Daye’s mission to revolutionize gynecological health with CBD-infused tampons and challenges faced when pitching male investors.

Publications

While direct mentions in peer-reviewed journals are not evident from available data, the company’s regulatory compliance issues were documented by the U.S. FDA. In December 2024, the FDA issued a warning letter concerning unsubstantiated claims about CBD-coated tampons and inadequate complaint-handling procedures.

Podcasts and Interviews

TechCrunch’s Found Podcast: Milanova detailed Daye’s efforts to address gaps in women’s healthcare, including research into industry shortcomings and employee mental health initiatives.

Conferences and Fairs

No specific conference participations or presentations are disclosed in publicly available records. However, as an EIC-funded entity, Daye likely engaged with EU innovation ecosystems through EIC-organized events or pitch sessions.

Event Involvement

The company has not been explicitly linked to trade fairs or sector-specific expositions post-funding. Its public engagement appears concentrated on digital platforms (e.g., Trustpilot) where customer feedback on CBD products surfaced during FDA inspections.

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Sources

• EIC Accelerator winners January 2023 - Strata.Team
• EIC Accelerator-January 11 Cut Off Document
• FDA Warning Letter to Anne's Daye Ltd