1 The EIC Accelerator Project
EIC Accelerator Program Overview
The EIC Accelerator program, part of the European Innovation Council (EIC), aims to support high-potential start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the European Union (EU) and associated countries. It primarily focuses on deep-tech innovations, which encompass advanced technologies rooted in scientific research and engineering. The program provides a unique blend of funding tools, including grants and equity investments, designed to facilitate the scaling of innovative companies and enhance their capacity to attract private investment.
Funding Structure
The EIC Accelerator offers two main types of funding: grants and equity.
Purpose of the EIC Accelerator
The EIC Accelerator serves a critical role in the European deep-tech and startup ecosystem by fostering innovation and competitiveness. Its primary objectives are to:
- Support Innovation: The program identifies and supports cutting-edge technologies that have the potential to disrupt markets and improve societal well-being.
- Facilitate Scaling: By providing substantial financial resources, the EIC Accelerator enables innovative companies to expand their operations and reach broader markets.
- Enhance Attractiveness to Investors: By de-risking early-stage investments, the EIC Accelerator makes it easier for companies to attract additional funding from private investors, fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Case Study: Core Biogenesis SAS and Project SEB
Company Overview: Core Biogenesis SAS, a French startup, is a recipient of the EIC Accelerator funding. The company focuses on biotechnological innovations aimed at sustainable solutions in bioproduction.
Project Acronym: SEB (Scalable and Eco-friendly Bioproduction)
Project Description: The SEB project is centered on developing an innovative bioproduction system that is both scalable and environmentally friendly. The initiative aims to revolutionize how biological products are manufactured, reducing reliance on traditional, resource-intensive production processes.
Technology Background
The technological foundation of the SEB project lies in advanced bioprocessing techniques that leverage microorganisms and biocatalysts to produce valuable compounds sustainably. This approach is designed to minimize waste and energy consumption while maximizing yield.
Conclusion
The EIC Accelerator program plays a pivotal role in nurturing innovative companies like Core Biogenesis SAS. By providing substantial funding through grants and equity, it empowers startups to scale their operations and attract private investment, thereby strengthening the European deep-tech ecosystem. The SEB project exemplifies the potential of biotechnological advancements to create sustainable production methods, highlighting the importance of innovation in addressing societal challenges. Through initiatives like the EIC Accelerator, Europe positions itself as a leader in fostering technological advancements that contribute to a sustainable future.
2 The Funding Rounds
Core Biogenesis SAS: Funding and Financial Events Since EIC Accelerator Success
Overview
Core Biogenesis SAS, a French biotechnology company specializing in plant-based production of recombinant proteins for cell therapy and cellular agriculture, has made notable progress in financing and industrial expansion since submitting its successful EIC Accelerator Step 2 proposal in March 2022.
Financing Raised & Funding Rounds
Core Biogenesis has completed three main funding rounds since its founding:
- Seed Round:
- Date: December 2020
- Amount: €2.6 million (approx. $3M)
- Investors: XAnge, Entrepreneur First, Plug and Play, several Business Angels
- Convertible Note:
- Date: May 31, 2021
- Amount: Not publicly disclosed
- Series A Round:
- Date Announced: March–July/August 2022
- Most sources report the round closed on March 29, with press coverage extending into summer as plans were announced.
- Some references cite July/August for public announcements of use of funds.
- The timing matches closely with Core Biogenesis’ progression through the EIC Accelerator process.
Timing and Amounts of Funding Rounds
| Round | Date | Amount | Key Investors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seed | Dec. 9, 2020 | €2.6M | XAnge (lead), Entrepreneur First, Plug & Play, Angels |
| Convertible Note | May 31, 2021 | Not Disclosed | — |
| Series A | Mar. 29–Aug., 2022 | $10.5M (€10M) | XAnge (lead), Blue Horizon Ventures, Thia Ventures, Entrepreneur First, Undisclosed Angels |
Note on dates: The Series A round was both announced at the end of March and featured in media coverage throughout summer as plans for facility expansion were detailed.
Investor Information
Main Investors by Round
- Seed
- XAnge (lead)
- Entrepreneur First
- Plug & Play
- Several business angels
- Series A
- XAnge (lead; Paris-based VC focused on tech/biotech)
- Blue Horizon Ventures (Zurich-based VC focusing on protein alternatives/biotech)
- Thia Ventures (Geneva/Luxembourg/Belgium/Singapore; biotech/nutrition focus)
- Entrepreneur First
Company Valuations
No official pre-money or post-money valuation figures have been published publicly for any funding rounds to date. Media or investor reports do not disclose explicit valuation numbers.
Exit Events
There is no record to date that Core Biogenesis SAS has held an IPO or been involved in acquisition/buyout events since receiving EIC Accelerator funding.
Additional Details Related to Funding Rounds
- The $10.5 million Series A enabled Core Biogenesis to build an industrial-scale production facility dedicated to growth factors/cytokines used in cell therapy markets as well as cellular agriculture.
- Part of the funds are allocated toward expanding scientific/technical staff.
- Strategic partnerships include a manufacturing/distribution collaboration with Nucleus Biologics for GMP-grade recombinant proteins targeting the cell/gene therapy sector.
Sources
- Core Biogenesis Raises $10.5M to Accelerate Plant-Based ...
- Core Biogenesis–Entrepreneur First: investment, ...
- Core Biogenesis completes $10.5M Series A funding round...
- Core Biogenesis SAS – Life Sciences Germany profile
3 The Press Releases
Core Biogenesis SAS, a French biotechnology company and winner of the EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022, has made significant strides in recombinant protein bioproduction using plant-based biofactories. Since receiving the funding, the company has announced several key developments including partnerships, technology advancements, product launches, and strategic growth initiatives.Partnerships
In January 2024, Core Biogenesis entered a strategic collaboration with Nucleus Biologics. This partnership positions Nucleus Biologics as the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) manufacturer for Core Biogenesis' recombinant proteins and as a distributor targeting the cell and gene therapy market. The collaboration aims to transform cost structures for cell culture media by providing an environmentally friendly protein portfolio integrated into innovative point-of-use media manufacturing systems that reduce CO2 emissions by 65%. Their first GMP product under this agreement is FGF-2 STAB scheduled for Q2 release with research use samples available earlier.
Technology Advancements
Core Biogenesis’ proprietary platform utilizes plants—specifically Camelina sativa—as biofactories to produce high-value recombinant proteins and peptides with precise targeting to plant oleosomes (natural lipid carriers). This technology enables ultra-scalable, sustainable production of biomolecules used across life sciences and skincare industries. A major technological breakthrough involves fusing proteins with oleosomes to enhance stability by 8-10 times and enable deep skin penetration past the epidermis into the dermis—a longstanding challenge in peptide/protein delivery within personal care products.
The company’s platform was originally developed for biopharmaceutical applications such as growth factors used in cell culture media but has been successfully adapted for cosmetic ingredients addressing anti-aging effects. Their oleosome-protein fusion technology represents a novel delivery system validated through skin explant studies confirming superior efficacy over traditional formulations.
Product Launches & Market Expansion
Core Biogenesis launched two innovative active skincare ingredients: peauvita™ (EGF-based) and peauforia™ (FGF-2 based), clinically proven to address primary signs of aging within just 14 days in placebo-controlled studies. These products exemplify their move into personal care alongside ongoing focus on biopharma applications.
The company is expanding its sales team primarily across Europe and Asia while preparing presentations at major industry events like Cosmet’Agora France and Makeup Show LA throughout 2025. Furthermore, they are collaborating confidentially with leading cosmetic companies to accelerate ingredient adoption worldwide.
Team & Leadership Updates
Alexandre Reeber serves as President & CEO; his visionary leadership combines technological innovation with sustainability ambitions. He spearheaded four years of intensive R&D overcoming challenges related to maintaining purity and efficacy of plant-produced biomolecules. Under his guidance Core Biogenesis diversified from purely pharmaceutical targets toward cosmetics without compromising core platform strengths.
Tony Abboud holds Chief Commercial Officer role focusing on commercializing next-generation actives co-developed with ingredient suppliers across Personal Care, Health & Wellness sectors leveraging their proprietary plant biofactory platform’s flexibility.
Intellectual Property & Industry Impact
Core Biogenesis’ intellectual property protects its unique oleosome-fusion bioproduction technologies which have set new benchmarks not only technically but also environmentally sustainable manufacturing processes impacting both pharmaceutical biologics production standards as well as cosmetic ingredient innovation pathways.
Summary
Since winning EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022:
- Core Biogenesis partnered strategically with Nucleus Biologics for GMP manufacturing/distribution targeting cell/gene therapies.
- Advanced its proprietary plant-based platform enabling scalable sustainable production of stabilized recombinant proteins fused to oleosomes.
- Launched clinically validated skincare actives peauvita™ EGF and peauforia™ FGF-2 using breakthrough delivery tech.
- Expanded market presence globally through new sales teams/events/partnerships while protecting IP assets.
- Maintained strong leadership driving innovation bridging biotech/pharma/cosmetic industries focused on sustainability.
This progress demonstrates how Core Biogenesis leverages cutting-edge synthetic biology combining environmental consciousness with commercial impact across multiple life science sectors.
Sources
- CoreBiogenesis.com
- NucleusBiologics Partnership Announcement
- News Medical - Strategic Collaboration
- Life Sciences Germany - Funding Announcement
- Covalo Blog - Oleosome Benefits
- GQ Article on Alexandre Reeber Leadership
- Business Insider Market News on Skincare Ingredients Launch
4 The Technology Advancements
Core Biogenesis SAS: Current Capabilities and Advancements
Core Biogenesis SAS, a French biotechnology company, has been at the forefront of innovative bioproduction technologies, particularly in the use of plants as biofactories for recombinant proteins and peptides. Since receiving funding, the company has made significant advancements in its technology and market presence.
Current Capabilities
Core Biogenesis employs a proprietary platform that uses plants, specifically Camelina sativa, to produce high-value recombinant proteins and peptides. This approach not only enhances sustainability but also reduces production costs. The company's large-scale production facility in Strasbourg was fully operational by Q1 2023, enabling it to produce kilograms of GMP-grade growth factors and cytokines.
The company's technology involves fusing biomimetic proteins and peptides with oleosomes, naturally occurring spherical carriers. This oleosome-protein fusion significantly stabilizes protein structures and facilitates deep delivery into the dermis, overcoming traditional barriers in skincare and therapeutic applications.
Advancements Since 2022
Since the EIC Accelerator funding, Core Biogenesis has demonstrated substantial progress:
- Oleosome-Protein Fusion Breakthrough: The company has confirmed the superior delivery capabilities of its oleosome-protein fusions, achieving deep penetration into the dermis. This innovation has been validated through skin explant studies and is particularly significant for the skincare industry.
- Product Launches: Core Biogenesis has launched two groundbreaking active ingredients, peauvita™ and peauforia™, which are next-generation growth factors proven to address aging signs in clinical trials.
- Partnership with Nucleus Biologics: The company partnered with Nucleus Biologics to advance biomedical innovations, focusing on sustainable and cost-effective recombinant protein production for cell and gene therapies. This collaboration aims to reduce the environmental impact of therapy manufacturing and enhance patient access.
- Market Expansion: Core Biogenesis is expanding its direct sales team in Europe and Asia, planning to showcase its innovations at major industry events in 2025.
Technology Improvements and Demonstrations
The company has improved its technology by enhancing protein stability and delivery through oleosome-protein fusions. These advancements have been demonstrated in skincare applications, where they have shown superior efficacy compared to traditional methods.
Core Biogenesis has also demonstrated its technology in the market through its launched products and partnerships. For instance, the collaboration with Nucleus Biologics highlights its ability to provide sustainable and scalable solutions for the cell and gene therapy sector.
New Patents, Studies, or Clinical Trials
There is no specific information on new patents filed or scientific studies published by Core Biogenesis since the EIC Accelerator funding. However, the company's oleosome-protein fusion technology has been validated through skin explant studies, which underscores its innovative approach to protein delivery.
In summary, Core Biogenesis SAS has made significant strides in bioproduction technology, market expansion, and partnerships, solidifying its position as a leader in plant-based recombinant protein production.
Sources: - Core Biogenesis
- Core Biogenesis Raises $10.5M to Accelerate Plant-Based Bioproduction
- Core Biogenesis Demonstrates The Delivery Benefits Of Its Oleosome
- Core Biogenesis SAS - Drug pipelines, Patents, Clinical trials
- Core Biogenesis Partners With Nucleus Biologics For Advanced Biomedical Advancements
- Oleosome-protein Fusions from Core Biogenesis Provide Deep Delivery of Skin Care Actives
- Core Biogenesis SAS - Drug pipelines, Patents, Clinical trials
5 The Partnerships and Customers
Core Biogenesis SAS: Partnerships and Market Positioning
Core Biogenesis SAS, a French biotech company, has been actively developing partnerships to enhance its market presence and technological advancements since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022. The company specializes in using plants as biofactories for producing high-value recombinant proteins, primarily targeting the life sciences and skincare industries.
Partnerships and Customers
One of the significant partnerships for Core Biogenesis is with Nucleus Biologics. This collaboration makes Nucleus Biologics the GMP manufacturer for Core Biogenesis' recombinant proteins and a distributor for the cell and gene therapy market. The agreement focuses on providing cost-effective and sustainable alternatives to conventional recombinant protein production methods, making these proteins available for Nucleus Biologics' Krakatoa pod-based media manufacturing systems.
New Partners and Customers
Currently, there is no specific mention of new partners or customers outside of the Nucleus Biologics collaboration in the available information. However, Core Biogenesis is expanding its operations and building a direct sales team in Europe and Asia to support growth in the personal care, health, and wellness sectors.
Nature of New Relationships and Purpose
The partnership with Nucleus Biologics aims to create a paradigm shift in the development and manufacturing of cell and gene therapies by offering sustainable, cost-effective GMP proteins. This collaboration positions Core Biogenesis as a leader in innovative bioproduction solutions, leveraging plant-based systems to reduce environmental impact and production costs.
Market Positioning
These relationships are crucial for positioning Core Biogenesis in the market as a pioneer in sustainable bioproduction. By aligning with Nucleus Biologics, Core Biogenesis enhances its ability to deliver scalable and efficient recombinant proteins, which will be pivotal in the expanding cell therapy market.
Technology Advancements and Scaling
The collaborations will help Core Biogenesis scale its technology by leveraging Nucleus Biologics' expertise in GMP manufacturing and distribution. This partnership will enable Core Biogenesis to focus on further developing its proprietary plant expression system, ensuring the production of a wide range of recombinant proteins in a repeatable and sustainable manner. The integration of these proteins into Nucleus Biologics' media manufacturing systems will also drive innovation in cell culture media formulations, potentially improving the efficacy of cell and gene therapies.
Future Directions
Core Biogenesis is set to further expand its portfolio of proteins and peptides, particularly in the personal care sector, where it has launched innovative active ingredients like peauvita and peauforia. The company's technology has demonstrated significant benefits in delivering active peptides and proteins, opening opportunities for co-development with ingredient suppliers and brands.
Sources
- Core Biogenesis
- Core Biogenesis SAS - Drug pipelines, Patents, Clinical trials
- Core Biogenesis Partners With Nucleus Biologics For Advanced
- Core Biogenesis SAS. Press Release
- Core Biogenesis reels in $10.5M in series A to build new plant
- Core Biogenesis Demonstrates The Delivery Benefits Of Its Oleosome
6 The Hiring and Company Growth
Core Biogenesis SAS: Company Overview and Development
Core Biogenesis SAS, a French biotechnology company, achieved significant recognition by winning the EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022. This funding has been pivotal in driving the company's growth and strategic expansion.
Current Headcount and Team Size
As of December 2020, Core Biogenesis had a team size of approximately 42 members. However, more recent data on the current headcount is not readily available.Hiring and Team Growth
There is no specific information available regarding recent hiring or key positions filled since the EIC Accelerator funding. The company's leadership, under Alexandre Reeber, has been instrumental in driving innovation and strategic growth.Growth and Future Directions
Core Biogenesis has experienced significant growth through its proprietary plant-based bioproduction platform. This technology allows for the scalable production of high-value recombinant proteins, primarilyassistantCore Biogenesis SAS: Company Overview and Development
Core Biogenesis SAS, a French biotechnology company, achieved significant recognition by winning the EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022. This funding has been pivotal in driving the company's growth and strategic expansion.
Current Headcount and Team Size
As of December 2020, Core Biogenesis had a team size of approximately 42 members. However, more recent data on the current headcount is not readily available.Hiring and Team Growth
There is no specific information available regarding recent hiring or key positions filled since the EIC Accelerator funding. The company's leadership, under Alexandre Reeber, has been instrumental in driving innovation and strategic growth.Growth and Future Directions
Core Biogenesis has experienced significant growth through its proprietary plant-based bioproduction platform. This technology allows for the scalable production of high-value recombinant proteins, primarily for the life sciences and skincare industries. The company's vision includes expanding into additional markets, such as biomaterials and sustainable products, emphasizing environmental responsibility alongside efficiency.Impact of New Team Members
While specific details about new team members are not available, the strategic focus on innovation and sustainability suggests that any additions would be aimed at enhancing these capabilities. New team members would likely contribute to advancing the company's biotechnology platforms, expanding product lines, and reinforcing its commitment to sustainable practices.Changes in Management or Founding Team
There is no detailed information available regarding any recent changes in the management or founding team structure of Core Biogenesis SAS.Sources: - Core Biogenesis
7 The Media Features and Publications
Overview of Core Biogenesis SAS
Core Biogenesis SAS, a French biotechnology company, was founded in May 2020 by Dr. Chouaib Meziadi and Alexandre Reeber. The company is recognized for its innovative use of plants as biofactories to produce high-value recombinant proteins for both the life sciences and skincare industries.
Media Features and Publications
Core Biogenesis has been featured in several publications, highlighting its advancements in biotechnology and skincare. Notably, the company's oleosome-protein fusions have been reported to be 10 times more stable than conventional proteins and peptides, enhancing their efficacy in skincare products. Core Biogenesis has introduced two skincare ingredients, Peauforia and Peauvita, leveraging its plant-based technology to stabilize proteins for deeper skin penetration.
Podcasts and Interviews
The company's team has participated in interviews and podcasts, discussing the sustainability and innovation of their plant-based bioproduction methods. Quentin Vicard, Director of Strategy and Alliance Management at Core Biogenesis, spoke on the Voices of Biotech podcast about the advantages and challenges of using plant-based processes for bioproduction.
Conference and Event Participation
Although specific conference participation details are not readily available, Core Biogenesis's involvement in the biotech industry suggests potential participation in related events to showcase its technology and innovations.
Involvement in Events
The company's focus on sustainability and innovative biotechnology methods likely aligns with its participation in industry events focused on biotechnology and regenerative medicine. However, specific details on recent event participation are not mentioned in the available sources.
EIC Accelerator Funding
Core Biogenesis SAS was an EIC Accelerator winner, submitting its proposal on March 23, 2022. The funding supports the company's mission to expand its plant-based bioproduction capabilities, contributing to a more sustainable future in the biotech industry.
Sources:
Core Biogenesis Oleosome-protein Fusions from Core Biogenesis Provide Deep Delivery of Skin Care Actives Core Biogenesis SAS Core Biogenesis Enters Beauty Market with New Actives Peauvita and Peauforia Alexandre Reeber Leads Core Biogenesis to Introduce Innovative Skincare Ingredients Voices of Biotech: Sustainability at the core of Core Biogenesis Core Biogenesis Raises $10.5M To Accelerate Plant-Based BioproductionDo you need EIC Accelerator support?
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