1 The EIC Accelerator Project

The EIC Accelerator program, part of the European Innovation Council (EIC), is a key initiative designed to support innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly those operating in the DeepTech sector. The program aims to facilitate the development and commercialization of groundbreaking technologies, ultimately driving economic growth and job creation in Europe.

Funding Structure

The EIC Accelerator offers a dual funding structure comprising both grants and equity. The grant component can provide up to €2.5 million, which is intended to cover costs associated with prototyping, testing, and market deployment. This financial support is crucial for startups and SMEs that require initial funding to validate their innovative ideas and technologies.

In addition to grants, the EIC Accelerator offers equity funding, which has undergone adjustments over the years. Until 2024, companies can secure equity investments of up to €15 million, while from 2025 onward, this amount will be capped at €10 million. This equity funding is particularly beneficial for scaling companies, enabling them to attract private investors by demonstrating backing from a reputable European program.

Purpose in the Ecosystem

The EIC Accelerator plays a pivotal role in the European DeepTech and startup ecosystem by providing essential resources that help companies scale their operations. By offering substantial funding options, the program encourages innovation and risk-taking among entrepreneurs. Furthermore, the EIC Accelerator connects startups with a network of investors, mentors, and industry experts, facilitating the acquisition of additional funding from private sectors. This multifaceted support system is designed to streamline the path from concept to market, ensuring that innovative solutions can be effectively developed and brought to users.

Case Study: VesselSens GmbH and StentGuard

One notable winner of the EIC Accelerator is VesselSens GmbH, a German company that secured funding for their project titled StentGuard. The project aims to clinically validate the first implantable sensor system for the wireless detection of stent occlusion and restenosis. Stents are commonly used in medical procedures to keep blood vessels open, but complications such as occlusion and restenosis can lead to severe health risks.

VesselSens has developed a pioneering technology that employs an implantable sensor capable of continuously monitoring the condition of stents. The StentGuard system is designed to wirelessly transmit data regarding the patency of the stent in real-time. This technology addresses a critical gap in the current monitoring systems, which rely on invasive procedures or periodic imaging techniques that may not detect issues promptly.

Technology Background

The core technology behind StentGuard revolves around advanced sensor design and wireless communication systems. The implantable sensor is engineered to be biocompatible, ensuring it can safely reside within the human body for extended periods. The sensor utilizes innovative materials and microfabrication techniques to monitor physiological parameters indicative of stent health, such as blood flow rates and pressure changes.

In addition to its technical design, the StentGuard system incorporates sophisticated algorithms for data analysis, allowing for the early detection of complications. By leveraging machine learning techniques, the system can adapt and improve its predictive capabilities over time. This technological advancement not only enhances patient safety but also reduces the burden on healthcare systems by minimizing the need for frequent medical interventions.

In summary, the EIC Accelerator program serves as a vital catalyst for innovation in Europe, particularly within the DeepTech sector. By facilitating funding and support for companies like VesselSens GmbH, the program fosters the development of groundbreaking technologies that can significantly impact healthcare and improve patient outcomes. The StentGuard project exemplifies how advanced technology can address critical medical challenges, paving the way for safer and more efficient healthcare solutions.

2 The Funding Rounds

# VesselSens GmbH: Funding Journey and Financial Development

VesselSens GmbH is a German medtech company that has secured multiple funding rounds since its inception. The company specializes in developing sensor technologies for the early, non-invasive detection of vascular constriction at implanted stent sites (restenosis).

Funding History

VesselSens has received several significant funding rounds throughout its development: Initial Research Funding (2019) In June 2019, VesselSens became the first research group at Life Science Inkubator (LSI) Bonn to receive funding from the EXIST Transfer of Research Program by Germany's Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi). This grant amounted to €984,000 for an 18-month period to advance their preclinical research and development program.

EIC Accelerator Funding (2022) In February 2022, VesselSens received a substantial grant of $2.8 million (approximately €2.6 million) through the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program. This funding came after their successful application in the March 23, 2022 cut-off.

Fraunhofer Investment Hub (2024) In December 2024, VesselSens participated in the Fraunhofer Investment Forum 2024 and was featured on the Fraunhofer Investment Hub, where they presented to potential investors. This suggests the company was actively seeking additional funding or investment partnerships at that time.

Company Structure and Leadership

VesselSens was founded by a team of experts led by:

• Dr. Alexej Domnich (Project Lead)
• Dr. Johannes Baulmann
• Niko Fischer-Wasels

As of available data, VesselSens employs approximately 4 full-time staff members.

Business Development

VesselSens began as a research group at Life Science Inkubator Bonn, focusing on developing novel sensor technologies. During their initial funding period, they planned to incorporate as a formal company.

The technology developed by VesselSens is described as a "platform technology with broad application potential even beyond restenosis monitoring," according to Alexej Domnich. This suggests the company sees multiple potential applications for their core technology.

Current Funding Status

As of the most recent information available, VesselSens is classified as "Need Funding," indicating they are likely still in the development or early commercialization phase and seeking additional investment to support their growth.

Investment Partners

VesselSens has received support from:

• Life Science Inkubator (LSI) Bonn
• LSI Pre-Seed Fund
• European Innovation Council (EIC)
• German Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi)

The company has also engaged with the Fraunhofer Investment Hub to connect with potential investors.

No information about company valuation, exit events such as IPOs or acquisitions, or specific venture capital investors is available in the provided search results.

Sources: - https://dealigence.vc/company/vesselsens

• https://www.medtechdive.com/press-release/20190627-vesselsens-first-research-group-at-life-science-inkubator-bonn-to-receive/
• https://www.fraunhoferventure.de/de/news/presse-2024/fraunhofer-investment-hub-vesselsens.html

3 The Press Releases

VesselSens GmbH: Developments and Achievements

VesselSens GmbH, a German company based in Bonn, has been at the forefront of developing innovative sensor technologies for vascular health monitoring. Since receiving funding from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator in 2022, the company has continued to advance its technology and business strategy.

Technology and Product Development

VesselSens is pioneering an implantable sensor system that allows for the early detection of vascular constriction, particularly in cases of restenosis following stent implantation. This technology integrates pressure sensors with conventional stents to track changes in pulse wave velocity, enabling real-time monitoring and early warning systems for potential constrictions. The system aims to reduce the need for costly and inaccurate clinical check-ups by providing wireless and non-invasive diagnosis.

Funding and Partnerships

In addition to the EIC Accelerator funding, VesselSens received significant support from the EXIST Transfer of Research Program by Germany's Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Energy. This funding, amounting to EUR 984,000, was crucial for advancing preclinical research and development at Life Science Inkubator (LSI) Bonn. The company also benefited from a previous grant of EUR 1.7 million from the Ministry of Culture and Science of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Team and Leadership

The company is led by Alexej Domnich, who has been working on the concept of an "intelligent stent" since 2010. Domnich previously worked at the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation in Stuttgart before continuing his work at LSI Bonn.

Press Releases and Updates

While specific press releases or updates on VesselSens' website or social media are not readily available, the company has been recognized for its groundbreaking work in vascular health monitoring. Its participation in innovation programs and funding initiatives highlights its commitment to advancing medical technology.

Sources

• VesselSens: First Research Group at Life Science Inkubator Bonn to ...
• VesselSens

4 The Technology Advancements

Overview of VesselSens GmbH

VesselSens GmbH, a German company based in Bonn, has been developing innovative medical technology solutions, particularly in the field of cardiovascular health. Their primary product, StentGuard, is a smart therapeutic monitoring device designed to diagnose restenosis non-invasively and reliably. Restenosis is a common complication following stent implantation, where the blood vessel gradually reclogs, potentially leading to severe health issues like limb amputation or death.

Current Capabilities

• Technology: StentGuard integrates sensors into stents to monitor pulse wave pressure differences, enabling early detection of restenosis. This technology allows for low-cost monitoring by non-specialist practitioners, addressing the challenge of infrequent monitoring due to limited access to specialist equipment and personnel.
• Market Focus: VesselSens targets the global peripheral stent market, which is growing due to an aging population with rising cardiovascular disease prevalence.
• Clinical Impact: By facilitating frequent monitoring, VesselSens aims to reduce the reliance on costly diagnostic procedures and improve patient outcomes by preventing severe complications of untreated restenosis.

Advancements Since EIC Accelerator Funding

As of the latest available information, VesselSens GmbH has received funding from various sources, including the EXIST Transfer of Research Program by Germany’s Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Energy. However, specific advancements or developments directly attributed to the EIC Accelerator funding received in March 2022 are not detailed in the available sources.

Technology Improvements

While there is no specific mention of new features developed since the EIC funding, VesselSens's technology inherently incorporates advanced sensor systems and AI-based algorithms for monitoring stent occlusion/restenosis. This suggests ongoing research and development in enhancing their smart stent technology.

Market Demonstration

The company has participated in industry events, such as MedFIT, showcasing its technology to potential partners and investors. However, detailed information on specific market demonstrations, customer pilots, or clinical trials conducted since the funding is not readily available.

Patents and Publications

There is no recent information on new patents filed or scientific studies published by VesselSens since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding. The company's work is focused on clinical validation of their implantable sensor system, but specific recent publications or patent filings are not reported in the available data.

In summary, while VesselSens continues to develop its innovative technology for non-invasive restenosis monitoring, specific advancements or achievements directly linked to the EIC Accelerator funding are not detailed in the current data.

Sources

• VesselSens - Start-up Initiative - Max Planck Foundation
• Programme Book - HaeMod
• VesselSens - Alien Technology Transfer
• P R O G R A M M E - MedFit event
• VesselSens: First Research Group at Life Science Inkubator Bonn to ...
• EIC Accelerator 23 March cut-off

5 The Partnerships and Customers

VesselSens GmbH: Partnerships and Market Positioning Post-EIC Accelerator Funding VesselSens GmbH, a German medtech innovator, specializes in wireless sensor technology for vascular monitoring. While specific details about its EIC Accelerator win in March 2022 are not publicly disclosed in the provided sources, the company’s partnerships and collaborations focus on advancing its core technology for restenosis detection.

Key Relationships and Collaborations

• Life Science Inkubator (LSI) Bonn: VesselSens incubated at LSI Bonn during its preclinical development phase, leveraging infrastructure and entrepreneurship support to refine its implantable sensor system.
• Research Funding: The company received €984,000 from Germany’s EXIST Transfer of Research Program (BMWi) in 2019 to advance preclinical testing. Subsequent grants included €1.7 million from North Rhine-Westphalia’s Ministry of Culture and Science.

Market Positioning Through Innovation

VesselSens’ patented “smart stent” technology aims to enable non-invasive monitoring of vascular constriction post-stent implantation. By integrating pressure sensors with AI-driven algorithms, the system alerts clinicians to restenosis risks early. Collaborations with research incubators like LSI Bonn position VesselSens as a pioneer in predictive healthcare solutions for cardiovascular diseases.

Scaling and Technology Advancements

Partnerships with academic institutions and funding bodies have enabled:

• Preclinical Validation: Progress toward regulatory approval through rigorous testing frameworks supported by public grants.
• Platform Expansion: Development of a broader sensor-based monitoring platform applicable beyond vascular health.

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Sources

• VesselSens: First Research Group at Life Science Inkubator Bonn
• MedFIT 2022 Programme Featuring VesselSens

Note: No direct post-EIC Accelerator partnership announcements or customer disclosures were found for VesselSens GmbH within the provided data.

6 The Hiring and Company Growth

VesselSens GmbH: Team Growth and Scaling Post-EIC Accelerator Funding Since securing EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022, VesselSens GmbH has positioned itself as a key player in medical technology, specializing in implantable sensor systems for restenosis detection. While specific hiring figures or headcount details are not publicly disclosed, the company’s inclusion among Bonn’s top healthtech startups (ranked #2 in 2025) suggests steady growth within Germany’s competitive medtech sector.

Key Insights on Team Dynamics

• Current team size: Not explicitly stated, but listed alongside startups with small-to-medium teams typical of early-stage healthtech firms.
• Hiring focus: Likely centered on R&D and clinical validation roles to advance its "smart stent" technology integrating wireless measurement and AI algorithms.
• Growth trajectory: Participation at major industry events like MedFIT (2022) and ARTERY23 (2023) indicates expanding networks and collaboration opportunities, often preceding talent acquisition.

Strategic Hiring Implications

New team members would likely accelerate product development cycles, enhance regulatory compliance efforts for CE marking or FDA approvals, and support partnerships with healthcare providers. The company’s emphasis on AI-driven diagnostics suggests hires in data science and biomedical engineering to refine its proprietary algorithms.

No public information indicates recent management changes or departures among founding members.

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Sources

• MedFIT 2022 Programme
• ARTERY23 Programme
• StartupBlink: Top Startups in Bonn (2025)

7 The Media Features and Publications

VesselSens GmbH: Media Coverage and Public Engagements VesselSens GmbH, a German medtech company specializing in wireless implantable sensor systems for vascular monitoring, has actively engaged in research collaborations and funding initiatives. While specific details about post-2022 activities (including potential EIC Accelerator-related events) are not publicly documented in the available sources, the following outlines their verified public presence:

Media Features and Publications

• MedTech Dive highlighted VesselSens’ 2019 funding milestone via Germany’s EXIST Transfer of Research Program, emphasizing its €1 million grant for preclinical development of a restenosis-detection sensor system.
• Alien Technology Transfer’s client profile detailed VesselSens’ StentGuard technology as a low-cost solution for non-invasive restenosis monitoring, addressing its clinical impact on peripheral artery disease patients.

Podcasts and Interviews

No direct podcasts or interviews featuring VesselSens team members were identified in the search results.

Conferences and Events

The company has maintained ties with the Life Science Inkubator (LSI) Bonn, which supported its incorporation during the EXIST funding phase (2015–2019). However, specific conference participations or presentations post-2020 are not documented.

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Sources
VesselSens: First Research Group at Life Science Inkubator Bonn
VesselSens - Alien Technology Transfer

Note: No information related to EIC Accelerator activities post-March 2022 was found in the provided sources.