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 their quest to bring innovative and disruptive technologies to market. Targeting deep-tech businesses, the program offers financial support in the form of grants and equity investments, aiming to boost the European innovation ecosystem and enhance the competitiveness of European companies on a global scale.Funding Structure
The EIC Accelerator provides substantial funding opportunities through two main channels: grants and equity investments.
Purpose in the Ecosystem
The EIC Accelerator plays a vital role in the European deep-tech and startup ecosystem by enabling innovative companies to bridge funding gaps that often impede their growth. By providing both grants and equity, the program reduces the financial barriers to innovation, allowing startups to focus on product development and market entry. This support not only fosters technological advancements but also helps create jobs and drive economic growth within the EU.
Role in Scaling Companies
The EIC Accelerator's dual funding mechanism encourages companies to leverage private sector investments effectively. By providing initial funding through grants and subsequent equity investments, the program enables startups to demonstrate their viability to private investors. This layered approach helps startups gain credibility in the marketplace and attract further investment, ultimately enhancing their scalability and sustainability.
Case Study: NANO4IMAGING GMBH and the TRACKR Project
Company Overview: NANO4IMAGING GmbH, based in Germany, is an innovative company focused on advancing imaging technologies, particularly in the medical field. The company has developed a turn-key solution aimed at revolutionizing interventional cardiology through enhanced imaging techniques.
Project TRACKR: The EIC Accelerator project titled TRACKR (AI-powered turn-key solution for MRI-based interventional cardiology) aims to improve the accuracy and efficacy of MRI imaging during cardiovascular procedures. The project was submitted as a Step 2 proposal on October 5, 2022, and subsequently won funding in the Step 3 interview.
Technology Basics: The TRACKR project utilizes advanced artificial intelligence algorithms to enhance MRI imaging techniques. Unlike traditional imaging methods that may provide limited resolution or require invasive procedures, TRACKR aims to offer real-time imaging capabilities that allow for precise navigation during interventional cardiology procedures.
The fundamental technology behind TRACKR integrates sophisticated machine learning techniques to analyze and interpret MRI data more effectively. This AI-powered approach not only optimizes image quality but also significantly reduces the time required for image acquisition and interpretation, thereby minimizing patient risk during procedures.
Conclusion
The EIC Accelerator program, with its robust funding structure and strategic focus on scaling innovative startups, serves as a critical catalyst within the European innovation landscape. Companies like NANO4IMAGING GmbH, through projects like TRACKR, showcase the potential of deep-tech innovations to transform medical practices and improve patient outcomes. The support from the EIC Accelerator not only fuels their growth but also contributes to the advancement of healthcare technologies in Europe.
2 The Funding Rounds
Nano4Imaging GmbH: Financing and Funding Events Since EIC Accelerator Award
Overview Nano4Imaging GmbH, based in Germany, is a nanotechnology company specializing in MRI-visible devices for minimally invasive procedures. The company was awarded EIC Accelerator funding after the October 5, 2022 cut-off. Below is a detailed account of its financing activities since receiving this recognition.
Financing Raised and Funding Rounds
- Series B Fundraising (In Progress)
- As of September 2023, Nano4Imaging launched a Series B funding round with the objective to raise $5 million. The round was publicized alongside news of their collaboration with Siemens Healthineers to integrate their TRACKR software into Siemens’ MAGNETOM MRI systems.
- Recent Investment and Grant Activity
- In December 2024, Brightlands Venture Partners was listed as an investor in Nano4Imaging. While this entry confirms investment activity during this timeframe, the specific amount raised has not been publicly disclosed.
- Additional Grant Support
- Nano4Imaging has also benefited from grant-based funding sources post-EIC Accelerator win. Notably, both the EIC Accelerator itself and S-UBG are cited as recent investors via grant mechanisms as late as September 2024.
Timing and Amounts of Funding Rounds
| Date | Round Type | Amount Sought / Raised | Notable Investors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 2023 | Series B | $5 million (target) | – |
| Dec 2024 | Undisclosed/VC or follow-on? | Not disclosed | Brightlands Venture Partners |
| Sep 2024 | Grant | Not disclosed | EIC Accelerator, S-UBG |
Note: Public sources do not disclose whether the full $5 million Series B target has been reached or further details on any completed rounds after December 2022.
Investor Information
Key investors since October 2022 include:
- Brightlands Venture Partners: Participated in an undisclosed round by December 1st, 2024.
- EIC Accelerator: Provided substantial non-dilutive grant support through its competitive European innovation program.
- S-UBG: Listed as an investor—details suggest involvement via grants rather than equity rounds.
No other institutional venture capital or corporate investors have been publicly confirmed since October 2022.
Company Valuations
Current public records do not disclose explicit valuation figures for Nano4Imaging at any stage following its EIC win. Typical Series B raises in medtech often imply valuations ranging from several tens up to hundreds of millions USD depending on traction and partnerships; however, applying these benchmarks would be speculative without concrete disclosure.
Exit Events (IPO/Buyouts/Acquisitions)
There is no evidence that Nano4Imaging has undergone any exit event such as an IPO or acquisition since receiving its EIC Accelerator award up through May 1st, 2025. The company appears focused on scaling operations independently while pursuing strategic partnerships such as those with Siemens Healthineers.
Summary Table — Key Recent Funding Milestones
| Event / Round | Date | Amount | Investors / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Series B Launch | Sep 11th –19th 23 | Target $5M | Announced; currently ongoing |
| Investment Disclosure | Dec 1st 24 | N/A | Brightlands Venture Partners involved |
| Grants | Through Sep '24 & earlier N/A EIC Accelerator; S‑UBG |
Conclusion
Since winning the EIC Accelerator award in late 2022:- Nano4Imaging initiated a major ($5M) Series B round.
- Attracted new VC interest from Brightlands Venture Partners by end‑’24.
- Continued to secure non-dilutive grants from European innovation funds.
Sources: Nano-Magazine coverage including partnership news & fundraising Dealroom profile — Funding timeline & investors
3 The Press Releases
Nano4Imaging Advances Medical Imaging Through Strategic Partnerships and Clinical InnovationsNano4Imaging GmbH, a German medical imaging innovator and EIC Accelerator winner (2022), has focused on expanding its market presence and technological capabilities post-funding. Key developments include strategic partnerships, clinical trial advancements, and participation in high-profile industry events.
Strategic Partnerships:
In 2024, Nano4Imaging announced a U.S. production expansion through a collaboration with Arrotek to enhance manufacturing capabilities for its imaging solutions. The company also participated in the France Digitale FDDAY 2024 as part of an EIC-organized delegation, fostering connections with European tech leaders like Saido Kaar and Ben Delhey.
Clinical Efforts:
The company is actively involved in the MARVY clinical trial (NCT05976711), which aims to replace CT/US with MRI for abdominal aortic aneurysm management. The study focuses on 4D flow MRI and dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI to improve surgical planning and reduce radiation exposure.
Industry Presence:
- PICS 2024: Lucien de Mos represented Nano4Imaging at the San Diego event, engaging with key stakeholders like Suren Reddy and Aimee Armstrong to advance iMRI applications in structural heart disorders.
- Biotech Showcase 2025: CEO Rudolf Schulze Vohren presented at the conference alongside partners Siemens, Terumo, and GE. The company’s focus areas include AI-driven cardiovascular and oncology imaging tools.
Sources
- Newsroom - Nano4Imaging
- Biotech Showcase 2025 Presenting Companies Addendum
- Nano4Imaging Clinical Trials
4 The Technology Advancements
Current Capabilities and Advancements of Nano4Imaging GmbH
Overview
Nano4Imaging GmbH, a German company specializing in interventional MRI products, received the EIC Accelerator funding on October 5, 2022. Since then, the company has made significant advancements in its capabilities and technology.
Strategic Partnerships and Production Expansion
One of the notable advancements is the strategic partnership with Arrotek, enabling Nano4Imaging to expand its production capabilities in the United States. This partnership involves the manufacturing of MRI-compatible guide-wires, such as the EmeryGlide guide-wire, which is FDA-cleared as an MR conditional product. The partnership also includes logistics and design collaborations for other composite components and MRI-compatible medical devices.
Technology and Product Development
Nano4Imaging continues to develop innovative products like the MagnaFy MRI markers, which are applied to devices used in procedures such as brachytherapy and angioplasty. Additionally, they are working on the TRACKR AI software, which utilizes deep learning algorithms for real-time detection of marker profiles. This software is initially being developed for their SmartWire guidewire and is available for co-development with OEM suppliers.
Market Demonstration and Clinical Trials
The company has been involved in various clinical trials, including one focused on developing MRI-based endovascular procedures for vascular surgery. This trial aims to improve the management of abdominal aortic aneurysms by using MRI techniques instead of traditional imaging methods like CT scans and ultrasound.
New Patents, Studies, and Publications
While specific new patents or scientific studies directly linked to the EIC funding are not detailed in the available information, Nano4Imaging has been actively engaged in funding and supporting research related to MRI-guided interventions. Their collaboration with industry partners and researchers contributes to advancing the field of interventional MRI.
Conclusion
Nano4Imaging GmbH has demonstrated significant progress since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding. Their strategic partnerships, technological advancements, and involvement in clinical trials position them as leaders in the interventional MRI market.
Sources
- Nano4Imaging Expands US Production Capabilities in Strategic Partnership with Arrotek
- Nano4Imaging: Products
- Nano4Imaging GmbH
- Newsroom - Nano4Imaging
- Feasibility of magnetic resonance imaging-guided cardiac interventions
- Rudolf Schulze Vohren, Nano4Imaging | LSI Europe
5 The Partnerships and Customers
NANO4Imaging GmbH: Strategic Partnerships and Market Positioning Post-EIC Accelerator Funding Since securing a €2.5 million EIC Accelerator grant in 2022, NANO4Imaging has actively expanded its partnerships and customer base to strengthen its position in the interventional MRI (iMRI) market.Key Partnerships
- Arrotek Medical: A strategic manufacturing partnership established in 2024 for U.S.-based production of the EmeryGlide™ guidewire, an FDA-cleared MRI-compatible device. Arrotek’s expertise in composite component design supports new product development, including needles and other iMRI devices.
- Siemens Healthineers: A Letter of Intent (LOI) signed in 2023 integrates NANO4Imaging’s AI-driven TRACKR software with Siemens’ MAGNETOM MRI systems via the Access-i interface. This collaboration aims to enable real-time catheter guidance during MRI procedures.
Customer Base
NANO4Imaging serves hospitals requiring iMRI tools and MRI system manufacturers, such as Siemens, seeking complementary software and devices for advanced imaging workflows. The company emphasizes direct engagement with U.S. hospitals through localized production via Arrotek to address shortages of MRI-compatible devices.Market Positioning and Growth Strategy
The partnerships aim to solidify NANO4Imaging’s leadership in the iMRI sector, projected to grow at a 24% CAGR to $2.3 billion by 2030. By combining proprietary marker technology, AI-enhanced TRACKR software, and scalable manufacturing through Arrotek, the company targets catheterization procedures—a $703 million segment within iMRI—where major OEMs remain inactive.Technology Advancements from Collaborations
- AI Integration: The Siemens partnership accelerates TRACKR’s adoption for endovascular guidance on multiple MRI platforms, including low-field systems like MAGNETOM Free.Max.
- Manufacturing Scalability: Arrotek’s North Attleboro facility streamlines U.S. logistics while enabling rapid prototyping of composite-based devices critical for MRI safety standards.
Sources
- Strategic Partnership with Arrotek | Arrotek Announcement
- LOI with Siemens Healthineers | Pitch Summary
6 The Hiring and Company Growth
Overview of Nano4Imaging GmbH
Nano4Imaging GmbH, based in Düsseldorf, Germany, is a company that specializes in interventional MRI technology. The company received EIC Accelerator funding in October 2022, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey.
Current Headcount and Team Size
As of the latest available information, Nano4Imaging has a small but focused team with approximately 15 employees. The team composition includes roles such as Director of Operations, Chief Financial Officer, Machine Learning specialist, and various technical positions like Software and Production Engineers.
Hiring and Growth
There is no explicit information available on whether Nano4Imaging is currently hiring. However, the company has plans to expand its capabilities in AI and software development, indicating potential future hiring needs in these areas.
Growth and Scaling
Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding, Nano4Imaging has likely experienced growth, though specific metrics are not provided. The funding and strategic partnerships, such as those with Siemens and Terumo, position the company for further expansion in the medical technology sector. The company's innovative MRI-compatible guide wire technology and its focus on AI-driven interventional MRI solutions are key drivers for this growth.
Key Positions and Management
Recent key positions include Director of Operations (Lucien de Mos), Chief Financial Officer (Cansu Ahlemeyer), and Machine Learning specialist (Jalil Ahmed). The company is led by Rudolf Schulze Vohren as CEO and co-founder, alongside co-founder and CTO Paul Borm. These leadership roles are crucial for the company's strategic direction and technological advancements.
Future Impact
The addition of new team members, particularly in AI and software development, will enhance Nano4Imaging's capability to scale and innovate. These hires are expected to contribute to the development of more sophisticated MRI technologies, further establishing the company in the medical imaging market. This growth supports the company's vision of revolutionizing radiology through interventional MRI, making it a significant player in the MedTech industry.
Changes in Management
There are no reported major changes in the management or founding team since the EIC Accelerator funding. The current leadership structure continues to guide the company's strategic growth and technological advancements.
Sources
- Nano4Imaging: Products
- Team Nano4Imaging
- Team - Nano4Imaging
- Biotech-Showcase-2025-Presenting-Companies-Addendum
- (R)Evolutionizing Radiology by Interventional MRI Summary deck
7 The Media Features and Publications
Overview of Nano4Imaging GmbH
Nano4Imaging GmbH, based in Düsseldorf, Germany, is a leading developer of real-time interventional cardiac magnetic resonance (iCMR) solutions. The company received EIC Accelerator funding in October 2022, marking a significant milestone in its growth and innovation journey.
Media Features and Publications
Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding, Nano4Imaging has been featured in various publications and media platforms, primarily through its own newsroom and product announcements. However, specific external publications highlighting the company's achievements post-funding are not widely documented in the available search results.
Content from Publications
Nano4Imaging's newsroom provides insights into its activities and partnerships. For instance, the company participated in the France Digitale FDDAY 2024 in Paris, where it was part of a joint delegation organized by the European Innovation Council (EIC) for selected portfolio companies. This event showcased the company's engagement with European innovation initiatives.
Podcasts or Interviews
There is limited information available on podcasts or interviews specifically featuring the Nano4Imaging team. However, the company's CEO, Rudolf Schulze Vohren, has been quoted in news releases discussing strategic partnerships and product developments.
Conference and Fair Visits
Nano4Imaging actively participates in international conferences and exhibitions. Notable events include:
- PICS 2024, San Diego: Lucien de Mos represented Nano4Imaging at this event, focusing on interventional MRI (iMRI) developments in structural heart disorders.
- CMR2024, London, UK: The company attended this conference, which aligns with its focus on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.
- France Digitale FDDAY 2024, Paris: As part of the EIC delegation, Nano4Imaging networked with peers and showcased its innovations.
Involvement in Events
Nano4Imaging is involved in various events related to medical imaging and innovation. The company's participation in conferences like CMR2024 and PICS 2024 underscores its commitment to advancing iCMR technologies. Additionally, its strategic partnerships, such as with Siemens Healthineers and Arrotek, highlight its engagement in the broader medical imaging ecosystem.
Strategic Partnerships
Recently, Nano4Imaging has been expanding its capabilities through strategic partnerships:
- Siemens Healthineers: Signed a Letter of Intent to develop and deploy TRACKR software on Siemens Healthineers MAGNETOM MRI systems, enhancing iCMR capabilities.
- Arrotek: Partnered to expand U.S. production capabilities, reinforcing its presence in the global market.
Products and Innovations
Nano4Imaging offers several innovative products, including:
- EmeryGlide Guidewire: An MRI-compatible guidewire with FDA 510(k) clearance.
- MagnaFy MRI Markers: Applied to devices used in procedures like brachytherapy and angioplasty.
- TRACKR AI Software: Currently in development, designed to integrate with guidewires and other devices for enhanced MRI guidance during interventions.
Sources
- Nano4Imaging Newsroom
- Nano4Imaging Collaboration with Siemens Healthineers
- Nano4Imaging Products
- Nano4Imaging Videos
- Nano4Imaging News Archive
- Nano4Imaging Whitepapers
- Medical Imaging Archive
- Webinars and Workshops Archive
- Live Events Archive
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