1 The EIC Accelerator Project
EIC Accelerator Program Overview
The EIC Accelerator is a funding initiative under the European Innovation Council (EIC), designed to support innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups in Europe. The program is particularly focused on high-risk, high-potential projects that can drive significant advancements in technology and address pressing societal challenges.
Funding Structure
The EIC Accelerator offers a unique dual funding mechanism: 1. Grants: Companies can receive non-repayable grants of up to €2.5 million. This grant is intended to cover various project costs, including R&D, prototyping, and testing.
Purpose of the EIC Accelerator
The primary purpose of the EIC Accelerator is to foster innovation within the European DeepTech and startup ecosystem. It aims to:
- Enhance the competitiveness of European companies globally.
- Promote breakthroughs in technology that can lead to sustainable economic growth.
- Encourage the development of solutions to societal challenges, such as healthcare, climate change, and digital transformation.
The program specifically targets companies that are developing cutting-edge technologies, often in sectors such as biotechnology, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence, thereby pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
Role in Scaling Companies
The EIC Accelerator plays a crucial role in helping companies scale by: - Providing essential funding at a critical stage when private investors may be hesitant to invest due to perceived risks.
- Offering a validation mechanism for startups, as receiving EIC funding signals credibility and potential to private investors, thereby attracting further investment.
- Facilitating connections with industry experts, mentors, and other entrepreneurs through networking opportunities and tailored support services that can enhance growth prospects.
EIC Accelerator Winner: GeneCode AS and Project KevadBio
Company Name: GeneCode AS
Project Acronym: KevadBio
Description: Developing a novel Parkinson's disease drug using small molecule mimetics of Glial cell line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (GDNF)
Funding Type: Grant first
Website: genecode.com
Country: Estonia
Submission Date: March 22, 2023
Project Overview: KevadBio
GeneCode AS is focused on addressing Parkinson's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions worldwide. The KevadBio project aims to develop a groundbreaking drug that leverages small molecule mimetics of GDNF, a neurotrophic factor crucial for the survival and maintenance of dopaminergic neurons.
Key Goals:
- To create a drug that effectively mimics the action of GDNF, providing neuroprotection and potentially reversing the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
- To enhance the delivery and bioavailability of this therapeutic agent, making it more effective in clinical applications.
Technology Basics and Background
Glial cell line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (GDNF) is a protein that plays a vital role in the survival and differentiation of neurons. In Parkinson’s disease, the dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra are lost, leading to the characteristic movement disorders. GDNF has shown promise in preclinical studies for its neuroprotective effects, but its clinical application has been limited due to challenges in delivering the protein effectively to the brain.
Small Molecule Mimetics: GeneCode AS's approach involves developing small molecules that can mimic the effects of GDNF. These mimetics are designed to be more easily absorbed and distributed in the body compared to larger protein molecules, thus overcoming delivery barriers associated with traditional GDNF therapies.
The development of such mimetics could revolutionize the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, as they may offer a more accessible and effective means of targeting the underlying mechanisms of these disorders.
Conclusion
In summary, the EIC Accelerator is a vital program that provides essential funding and support to innovative companies like GeneCode AS. Their project, KevadBio, represents a significant advancement in Parkinson's disease treatment, utilizing cutting-edge technology to address a pressing healthcare need. With the backing of the EIC Accelerator, GeneCode AS is well-positioned to make a substantial impact in the DeepTech ecosystem and improve the lives of those affected by Parkinson's disease.
2 The Funding Rounds
Since receiving the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding on March 22, 2023, GeneCode AS, an Estonian pharmaceutical development company, has secured additional funding to advance its research and development initiatives.Funding Rounds and Amounts:
- July 2023: GeneCode received a €16 million support package from the EIC Accelerator. This comprised a €1.7 million research grant and €14.3 million in equity investments, marking the largest funding ever received by an Estonian company under this program. (ec.europa.eu)
- June 2024: The company secured a €1.6 million research and development grant from Enterprise Estonia. This funding is designated for the expansion of GeneCode's GDNF Mimetics Platform to address conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), retinitis pigmentosa (RP), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). (investinestonia.com)
- December 2024: GeneCode obtained an additional grant of approximately €1.5 million from the Estonian Business and Innovation Agency. This funding aims to advance the company's Parkinson's disease drug development project, facilitating the completion of preclinical studies and preparation for first-in-human studies. (genecode.com)
Investor Information:
GeneCode's investors include:
- European Innovation Council Fund: A venture capital entity that provided €14.3 million in equity investments as part of the July 2023 funding. (pitchbook.com)
- Enterprise Estonia: A government agency that has supported GeneCode with grants, including the €1.6 million R&D grant in June 2024. (investinestonia.com)
Company Valuations:
Specific valuations of GeneCode AS are not publicly disclosed. However, the substantial funding received, particularly the €16 million from the EIC Accelerator in July 2023, indicates a significant valuation. The company's focus on developing disease-modifying therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, positions it as a promising entity in the biotech sector. (pharmaventures.com)
Additional Information:
GeneCode's GDNF Mimetics Platform leverages the disease-modifying properties of GDNF to develop small molecules with drug-like properties. The company has been recognized for its innovative approach, being named among the top biotech companies to watch in 2024 by The Silicon Review. (genecode.com)
In summary, since March 2023, GeneCode AS has secured significant funding from both governmental and venture capital sources, enabling the advancement of its research and development projects in the field of neurodegenerative diseases.
3 The Press Releases
Since receiving the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding on March 22, 2023, GeneCode AS, an Estonian pharmaceutical development company, has published several press releases detailing their advancements and collaborations. Below is a summary of these releases:July 2023: EIC Accelerator Funding Announcement
In July 2023, GeneCode announced that the EIC Accelerator had provided €16 million to support the development of a drug aimed at slowing the progression of Parkinson's disease. This funding comprises a €1.7 million grant and €14.3 million in equity investments, marking the largest funding ever received by an Estonian company under the EIC Accelerator. The project, named "Kevad Bio," is developed in collaboration with Argobio. (genecode.com)
October 2023: Collaboration with Enterprise Estonia
In October 2023, GeneCode highlighted the support received from Enterprise Estonia for their R&D project. The company expressed gratitude for this backing and reflected on their journey with Enterprise Estonia and Argobio, looking ahead to future developments. (genecode.com)
June 2024: €1.6 Million Grant from Enterprise Estonia
In June 2024, GeneCode announced a significant milestone in their research journey. They secured a €1.6 million grant from Enterprise Estonia (EAS) to expand their GDNF Mimetics Platform. This expansion aims to address conditions such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). (genecode.com)
October 2024: Recognition as a Promising Biotech Company
In October 2024, GeneCode was selected among the most promising biotech companies in the European Union. This recognition underscores the company's innovative approach and potential in the biotech sector. (baltictimes.com)
February 2024: Top 5 Biotech Companies to Watch
In February 2024, GeneCode was named one of the top 5 biotech companies to watch in 2024 by The Silicon Review. The company's research group, led by Prof. Dr. Mart Saarma, focuses on investigating the structure, biology, and therapeutic potential of neurotrophic factors, specifically the GDNF family and their receptors. (genecode.com)
Partnerships and Collaborations
Technology Advancements
Team Updates
Patents and Intellectual Property
These press releases and developments highlight GeneCode's ongoing commitment to advancing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases through innovative research and strategic collaborations.
4 The Technology Advancements
Since receiving the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding on March 22, 2023, GeneCode AS, an Estonian pharmaceutical development company, has made significant advancements in its research and development efforts.Technology Advancements:
- Parkinson's Disease Treatment: In July 2023, GeneCode secured €16 million from the EIC Accelerator to develop a drug aimed at slowing the progression of Parkinson's disease. This funding comprises a €1.7 million grant and €14.3 million in equity investments. The drug candidate focuses on restoring damaged dopamine neurons and increasing dopamine levels in brain tissue, addressing a critical need for disease-modifying treatments. (ec.europa.eu)
- Expansion to Other Diseases: In June 2024, GeneCode received an additional €1.6 million grant from Enterprise Estonia to expand its GDNF Mimetics Platform. This expansion aims to develop treatments for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), retinitis pigmentosa (RP), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), leveraging the company's expertise in neurodegenerative diseases. (investinestonia.com)
Development Phase and Scaling:
GeneCode is currently in the preclinical research phase for its Parkinson's disease drug candidate. The company is conducting studies to assess the safety and efficacy of the drug, with plans to initiate clinical trials upon successful completion of these studies. The additional funding is expected to accelerate these efforts and support the scaling of their technology. (ec.europa.eu)
Market Demonstration:
As of now, GeneCode has not publicly disclosed any partnerships with customers or demonstrators for its Parkinson's disease treatment. The company is focusing on preclinical studies to establish the drug's safety and efficacy before moving to clinical trials. The recent funding is intended to support these preclinical efforts and pave the way for future market demonstrations. (ec.europa.eu)
Intellectual Property and Publications:
There is no publicly available information indicating that GeneCode has filed new patents or published new scientific studies, clinical trials, or whitepapers since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding. The company's recent activities have been centered around securing funding and advancing preclinical research for its drug candidates.
In summary, GeneCode AS has made substantial progress in developing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson's disease, since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding. The company is in the preclinical phase, focusing on establishing the safety and efficacy of its drug candidates, with plans to scale and demonstrate its technology in the market in the near future.
5 The Partnerships and Customers
Since receiving the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding on March 22, 2023, GeneCode AS, an Estonian biotechnology company, has made significant strides in expanding its partnerships and customer base.New Partnerships:
Nature and Purpose of Relationships:
Market Positioning:
Technology Advancements and Scaling:
- Accelerated Research and Development: The partnership facilitates access to Argobio's expertise and resources, accelerating GeneCode's R&D efforts. This collaboration is expected to expedite the development of novel treatments for Parkinson's disease, moving from preclinical studies to clinical trials more efficiently. (genecode.com)
- Broader Therapeutic Applications: The EIC Accelerator funding and the Argobio partnership enable GeneCode to expand its GDNF mimetic platform to address other neurodegenerative diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), retinitis pigmentosa, and inflammatory bowel disease. This diversification allows GeneCode to scale its technology across multiple therapeutic areas. (investinestonia.com)
In summary, GeneCode AS has strategically leveraged its EIC Accelerator funding and partnerships to enhance its market position and advance its technological capabilities, paving the way for innovative treatments in the biotechnology sector.
6 The Hiring and Company Growth
GeneCode AS, an Estonian biotechnology company, received significant support from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program on March 22, 2023. This support included a €1.7 million grant and an additional €14.3 million in equity investment, totaling €16 million—the largest funding ever received by an Estonian company under the EIC Accelerator. (ec.europa.eu)Current Team Size and Hiring Status:
Specific details about GeneCode's current headcount or team size are not publicly disclosed. The company has not publicly announced any recent hiring initiatives or key positions filled since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding. Consequently, there is no available information regarding their current hiring status or any major changes in management or the founding team.
Growth and Future Outlook:
The substantial funding from the EIC Accelerator is expected to significantly bolster GeneCode's research and development efforts, particularly in developing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The company's CEO, Paavo Pilv, emphasized that this support is crucial for advancing their R&D activities and potentially attracting additional capital in the future. (ec.europa.eu)
In June 2024, GeneCode secured an additional €1.6 million grant from Enterprise Estonia to further develop treatments for ALS, retinitis pigmentosa, and inflammatory bowel disease. This funding is intended to expand their GDNF Mimetics Platform, indicating ongoing growth and commitment to addressing serious health conditions. (investinestonia.com)
While specific details about team expansion and hiring are not publicly available, the recent funding and strategic partnerships suggest that GeneCode is well-positioned to scale its operations and advance its mission in the biotechnology sector.
7 The Media Features and Publications
Since GeneCode AS received the EIC Accelerator funding on March 22, 2023, the company has been featured in several media outlets, publications, and events. Below is a summary of these engagements:Media Features:
- PharmaVentures Press Release (July 11, 2023): PharmaVentures announced GeneCode's successful application to the EIC Accelerator, highlighting the €16 million funding package comprising €1.7 million in grant funding and €14.3 million in equity investments. This marked the largest funding ever received by an Estonian company under the EIC Accelerator programme. (pharmaventures.com)
- The Northern Voices Article (November 19, 2024): This article discussed GeneCode's membership in the European Innovation Council's (EIC) Scaling Club network, emphasizing the company's focus on developing innovative treatments for severe diseases, including Parkinson's disease. (thenorthernvoices.com)
- Estonian World Article (November 7, 2024): The article highlighted GeneCode's recognition as a promising Estonian biotech firm and its membership in the EIC Scaling Club, underscoring the company's efforts in tackling neurodegenerative diseases. (estonianworld.com)
Publications:
- The Silicon Review (February 2024): GeneCode was named one of the TOP 5 best biotech companies to watch in 2024. (genecode.com)
- The Life Sciences Review (November 2023): GeneCode Ltd. was nominated among the TOP10 Drug Discovery and Development Solutions Providers in Europe 2023. (genecode.com)
Podcasts or Interviews:
Conferences and Fair Visits:
- Digital RESI Europe (March 2020): GeneCode participated in the Virtual Partnering Conferences, aiming to match fundraising CEOs and scientist-entrepreneurs with investors and strategic partners. (genecode.com)
- UTILE Partnering Summit (July 2019): GeneCode participated in the UTILE Partnering Summit in London, presenting their developments in Parkinson's disease research. (genecode.com)
Event Involvement:
- Parkinson’s UK Research Conference 2016 (October 2016): GeneCode attended the conference in Leeds, UK, presenting a poster with recent data on the activity of selected compounds in the model of Parkinson’s disease. (genecode.com)
- 16th Annual Biotech in Europe Forum (September 2016): GeneCode participated in the forum, showcasing their latest discoveries in the biotech field. (genecode.com)
These engagements reflect GeneCode AS's active participation in the biotechnology sector, highlighting its advancements and collaborations in developing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.