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IonKraft GmbH

EIC Accelerator Supports IonKraft GmbH in Advancing Sustainable Packaging Solutions

GermanyEIC Accelerator2022

Table of Contents

  1. The EIC Accelerator Project
  2. The Funding Rounds
  3. The Press Releases
  4. The Technology Advancements
  5. The Partnerships and Customers
  6. The Hiring and Company Growth
  7. The Media Features and Publications

1 The EIC Accelerator Project

EIC Accelerator Program Overview

The EIC Accelerator program, part of the European Innovation Council (EIC), is designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that are developing innovative technologies with the potential to create significant market impact. The program focuses particularly on deep tech startups and aims to foster innovation by providing substantial funding, mentorship, and access to networks that can help these companies scale effectively.

Funding Structure

The EIC Accelerator offers a unique funding structure that combines both grants and equity investments.

  • Grant Funding: Companies can receive a grant of up to €2.5 million. This grant is intended to help cover the costs of projects that aim to develop and scale innovative technologies, ensuring that companies can advance their research and development without the pressure of immediate returns on investment.
  • Equity Investment: In addition to grant funding, the EIC Accelerator provides equity investment, which initially offered up to €15 million until 2024. As of 2025, this cap will be reduced to €10 million. This funding is crucial for startups looking for significant capital to scale their operations, penetrate markets, and achieve commercial viability.

Purpose in the European Ecosystem

The EIC Accelerator plays a vital role in the European DeepTech and startup ecosystem. By targeting high-risk, high-reward innovations, the program seeks to bridge the funding gap that many startups experience, especially in the early stages of development. This support not only encourages European innovation but also enhances competitiveness on a global scale.

Furthermore, the program enhances collaboration between startups and private investors, facilitating a pathway for further funding. The EIC Accelerator's backing often serves as a stamp of validation, which can attract additional private sector investment and partnerships.

Scaling and Funding Role

The EIC Accelerator assists companies in scaling their innovations by providing not only financial support but also strategic guidance. The program includes access to a network of industry experts, investors, and mentors who can provide invaluable insights into market entry strategies, product development, and commercialization. This holistic approach ensures that recipient companies are well-positioned to succeed in a competitive landscape.

Case Study: IonKraft GmbH and the IonKraftCoating Project

Company Overview

IonKraft GmbH, based in Germany, is an innovative startup recognized for its pioneering work in sustainable technology solutions. The company focuses on addressing environmental challenges by leveraging advanced plasma technology for various applications, particularly in the packaging industry.

Project Description: IonKraftCoating

The IonKraftCoating project aims to develop sustainable plastic packaging through the application of plasma technology. This innovative approach is designed to enhance the properties of plastic materials, making them more suitable for sustainable applications while reducing their environmental footprint.

Technology Background

At the core of IonKraft’s technology is the use of plasma processes, which involve ionized gases that can modify the surface characteristics of materials at a molecular level. This process can significantly improve the barrier properties of plastics, making them more resistant to moisture, oxygen, and other environmental factors. By enhancing these properties, the technology enables plastic materials to be used in a more sustainable manner, reducing the need for multilayer packaging and thus minimizing waste.

The IonKraftCoating project will utilize this plasma technology to develop coatings that can be applied to various types of plastic, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional packaging solutions. This approach not only aligns with the growing demand for sustainable practices in the packaging industry but also positions IonKraft as a leader in innovation.

Funding and Impact

IonKraft GmbH submitted its Step 2 proposal for the EIC Accelerator on October 5, 2022, and subsequently participated in a Step 3 interview, securing funding to further advance its IonKraftCoating project. The initial grant funding will allow the company to accelerate its research and development efforts, while the equity investment will provide the necessary capital for scaling operations and bringing the technology to market.

By leveraging the EIC Accelerator's support, IonKraft GmbH is poised to make a significant impact on the sustainable packaging landscape, promoting environmentally friendly practices and contributing to the circular economy.

Conclusion

The EIC Accelerator program is crucial for supporting innovative companies like IonKraft GmbH, providing them with the financial resources and expert guidance needed to scale their groundbreaking technologies. As the program continues to evolve, it remains a pivotal element in fostering innovation and sustainability within the European startup ecosystem.

2 The Funding Rounds

# IonKraft GmbH: Funding Journey and Financial Development

IonKraft GmbH, a German startup spun off from the Institute for Plastics Processing (IKV) at RWTH Aachen University, has been making significant strides in the packaging industry with its innovative plasma-based barrier coating technology. The company's financial journey showcases strategic funding rounds that have supported its growth and development.

Funding Rounds Timeline

IonKraft has secured multiple funding rounds since its founding: Initial Support (Pre-2022) The company was initially supported by the EXIST Research Transfer program from the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) of Germany. This early funding helped the team develop their machine technology and validate applications with industry partners.

EIC Accelerator Grant (October 2022) IonKraft was selected for funding in the October 5, 2022 cut-off of the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program. The company received a grant of €2.5 million to develop its industrial machine technology and prepare for market launch.

Equity Funding Round (November 2024) On November 18, 2024, IonKraft successfully closed its first equity financing round of €3.5 million. This round was co-led by M Ventures (the strategic investment fund of Merck KGaA) and TechVision Fund (TVF), with participation from High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF).

Total Funding

Based on the available information, IonKraft has raised approximately €6 million in total funding:

  • €2.5 million grant from the EIC Accelerator program
  • €3.5 million in equity funding from its first investment round

Investor Information

IonKraft's investors include:

M Ventures The strategic investment fund of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, which co-led the November 2024 equity funding round.

TechVision Fund (TVF) A venture capital fund that co-led the November 2024 equity funding round alongside M Ventures.

High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF) A seed investor that participated in the November 2024 equity funding round.

Use of Funds

The company has strategically allocated its funding for specific purposes: EIC Accelerator Grant (2022-2023) This funding enabled IonKraft to develop its industrial machine and prepare for market launch. The company used this grant to advance its technology to a commercially viable stage.

Equity Funding (2024) The €3.5 million raised in November 2024 will be used to:

  • Scale up the production of coating machines
  • Prepare for market entry
  • Expand the team
  • Support the market launch of products with IonKraft coatings scheduled for 2025

Company Valuation and Exit Events

There is no publicly available information regarding IonKraft's current valuation or any exit events such as IPOs, buyouts, or acquisitions. As of May 2025, the company appears to be focusing on scaling its operations and preparing for its commercial launch rather than pursuing exit strategies.

Business Development Milestones

IonKraft has achieved several key business milestones tied to its funding:

  • By the end of 2024, the company plans to deploy its first industrial coating system to customers
  • The market launch of the first products with IonKraft coatings is scheduled for 2025
  • The company has already validated its coating technology across various applications with industry partners

IonKraft's funding journey demonstrates a progression from public grant funding to private equity investment, reflecting the company's transition from early-stage technology development to commercial readiness. The company's focus on sustainable packaging solutions addressing circular economy challenges has attracted both public funding agencies and private investors interested in environmental innovation.

Sources: - EIC Accelerator 5 October cut-off - European Innovation Council

3 The Press Releases

IonKraft GmbH: Advancements in Sustainable Packaging Since EIC Accelerator Funding IonKraft GmbH, a German spin-off from RWTH Aachen University’s Institute for Plastics Processing (IKV), has leveraged its 2022 EIC Accelerator funding to accelerate the development of plasma-based barrier coatings for recyclable packaging. Co-founded by Dr. Montgomery Jaritz and Benedikt Heuer, the company addresses critical sustainability challenges by replacing non-recyclable multilayer plastics and PFAS-containing materials with eco-friendly alternatives.

Key Developments Post-EIC Accelerator

  • Funding Milestones: In November 2024, IonKraft closed a €3.5 million equity financing round co-led by M Ventures and joined by High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF) and TechVision Fonds (TVF). This capital supports scaling production and deploying industrial coating systems.
  • Technology Validation: IonKraft’s plasma coatings have been certified by RecyClass as fully recyclable, enabling manufacturers to incorporate recycled materials into food-grade packaging while maintaining glass-like barrier properties.
  • Market Launch Plans: The first industrial coating system is slated for customer deployment in late 2024, with commercial products expected to launch in 2025.

Strategic Partnerships

IonKraft collaborates with major industry players to validate applications across cosmetics, food, and pharmaceutical packaging. Their technology has been tested on diverse container types, demonstrating compatibility with existing manufacturing processes.

Environmental Impact

The EIC’s GHG Tool supports IonKraft’s mission to reduce carbon footprints in packaging. By eliminating PFAS and non-recyclable materials, the company aims to establish a new standard for circular economy-compliant packaging.

Sources

4 The Technology Advancements

IonKraft GmbH: Advancements and Developments

IonKraft GmbH, a German startup based in Aachen, has made significant strides in developing sustainable packaging solutions since receiving funding from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator in October 2022. The company specializes in plasma-based barrier coatings designed to replace non-recyclable materials, thereby supporting a circular economy in packaging.

Current Capabilities

IonKraft's technology offers chemically resistant and fully recyclable coatings with barrier properties comparable to glass. This innovation allows manufacturers to replace non-recyclable, multi-layer, or fluorinated (PFAS) packaging materials, which cannot be recycled. The coatings can be integrated into existing production lines and are suitable for sensitive products such as food and cosmetics.

Advancements Since EIC Funding

Since receiving the EIC funding, IonKraft has achieved several advancements:

  • Industrial Plant Development: In 2023, IonKraft utilized EU funding to establish an industrial plant, marking a crucial step toward its market launch.
  • Equity Financing Round: In November 2024, IonKraft secured €3.5 million in a first equity financing round co-led by M Ventures and TechVision Fund, with participation from High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF). This funding will support the market launch and scale up production.
  • Market Launch Preparations: The company plans to deploy its first industrial coating system by the end of 2024, with product launches scheduled for 2025.

Technology Improvements and New Features

IonKraft has refined its plasma-based barrier coating technology, enhancing its market readiness and ease of integration into existing production lines. The technology is designed to maximize the use of recycled materials in packaging solutions, providing an alternative to PFAS and glass.

Market Demonstration

While there are no specific details on clinical trials or large-scale pilots, IonKraft has validated various applications with industry partners and is preparing to demonstrate its technology through the deployment of the first industrial coating system at a customer site by the end of 2024.

Patents and Scientific Studies

There is no recent information available on new patents filed or scientific studies published by IonKraft since the EIC funding. However, the company's technology has been recognized for its potential to replace non-recyclable barrier solutions, and its coatings have been certified for recyclability by RecyClass.

Sources

5 The Partnerships and Customers

IonKraft GmbH: Advancing Circular Economy in Packaging

IonKraft GmbH, a spin-off from RWTH Aachen University in Germany, has been making significant strides in the packaging industry since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in October 2022. The company specializes in plasma-based barrier coatings designed to replace non-recyclable materials, thus supporting a circular economy in packaging.

Partnerships and Collaborations

One of IonKraft's notable partnerships is with Greif, a global leader in packaging. This collaboration aims to revolutionize the recyclability and sustainability challenges in plastic jerrycan packaging by utilizing IonKraft's plasma-enhanced vapor deposition coating technology. This technology creates a barrier that is non-reactive, chemically inert, and 100% recyclable, offering a sustainable alternative to fluorination.

Investors and Funding

In November 2024, IonKraft secured €3.5 million in a first equity funding round. This round was co-led by M Ventures (the strategic investment fund of Merck) and TechVision Fund (TVF), with participation from High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF). The funding will be used to scale up the production and sales of IonKraft's coating machines, preparing for market entry and future scaling.

Impact of Relationships on Market Position and Technology Advancements

The partnerships and funding will significantly position IonKraft GmbH in the market as a leader in sustainable packaging solutions. IonKraft's technology is poised to replace millions of tons of non-recyclable multilayer or fluorinated (PFAS) packaging, enabling manufacturers to create fully recyclable products while reducing environmental impact and carbon footprint. The funding and partnerships will help IonKraft advance its technology by expanding its team and scaling the production of coating machines, thereby supporting its mission to transform the global packaging industry towards a circular economy.

New Relationships and Purpose

IonKraft's new relationships, particularly with investors like M Ventures and TVF, indicate a strong strategic alignment towards achieving a circular economy in packaging. These partnerships not only provide financial support but also leverage the expertise and networks of the investors, helping IonKraft navigate market challenges and scale its operations effectively.

Sources

6 The Hiring and Company Growth

IonKraft GmbH: Team Growth and Scaling Strategy Post-EIC Accelerator Funding

Since securing EIC Accelerator funding in October 2022, IonKraft GmbH has advanced its mission to enable circularity in packaging through plasma-based barrier coatings. While specific details about current headcount or recent hires are not publicly disclosed, the November 2024 €3.5 million equity financing round—led by M Ventures, TechVision Fund, and High-Tech Gründerfonds—will directly support team expansion and production scaling.

Hiring and Team Growth

The company explicitly stated that the new capital will be used to expand its team, alongside scaling machine production and market entry preparations. This suggests active hiring across technical, operational, and sales roles to meet industrial demand. The absence of headcount figures in available materials indicates IonKraft likely operates as a small-to-midsize startup typical of early-stage hardware tech firms.

Management Stability

The founding team remains intact: Dr. Montgomery Jaritz (technical lead) and Benedikt Heuer (business strategy) continue steering the company. No management changes are reported as of November 2024, reflecting stability during this growth phase.

Strategic Hiring Focus

Given the planned market launch in 2025, critical hires likely include:
  • Process engineers: To optimize coating systems for large-scale production.
  • Sales specialists: To secure partnerships with packaging manufacturers globally.
  • Supply chain managers: To handle increased machine manufacturing demands.

These roles align with IonKraft’s need to deploy industrial coating systems by late 2024 while preparing for full commercialization. The EIC Accelerator funding previously supported R&D validation, while the recent equity round accelerates operational readiness—a transition requiring expanded human capital.

Sources

7 The Media Features and Publications

IonKraft GmbH, a German startup and spin-off from RWTH Aachen University, has garnered considerable media attention and industry recognition since receiving EIC Accelerator funding in October 2022. The company specializes in plasma-based barrier coatings that enable recyclable plastic packaging, aiming to replace non-recyclable multilayer or PFAS-containing packaging with sustainable alternatives.

Media Features and Publications

Several prominent publications have featured IonKraft's innovative technology and business developments:

  • Silicon Canals highlighted IonKraft’s recent successful €3.5 million funding round led by M Ventures (Merck’s strategic investment arm), TechVision Fund, and High-Tech Gründerfonds. The article details IonKraft’s mission to make plastic packaging fully recyclable through plasma-based coatings that provide glass-like barrier properties while being chemically resistant.
  • EU Startups covered the same financing milestone, emphasizing IonKraft's potential to advance circular economy principles in packaging by allowing high-barrier coatings suitable for sensitive products such as food and cosmetics.
  • Startbase reported on the capital raise as well, underscoring the readiness of IonKraft’s coating machines for market launch and production scaling.
  • M Ventures, one of the lead investors, published a news release about their co-leading role in the €3.5 million equity round supporting production scale-up for coating machines deploying this plasma technology.
  • Additionally, StartupSmagazine.co.uk recapped these achievements while also referencing an interview opportunity available through “The Cereal Entrepreneur” podcast where founders discuss entrepreneurship themes relevant to startups like IonKraft.

Podcasts & Interviews

The specific team members of IonKraft have not been widely documented performing direct interviews or podcasts under their own brand; however:

  • An indirect reference notes that entrepreneurial leaders connected with similar innovation ecosystems appear on podcasts such as "The Cereal Entrepreneur," which may include discussions involving founders like Benedikt Heuer or Dr. Montgomery Jaritz regarding startup growth strategies related to clean tech innovations like theirs.

    • Conference & Fair Participation

    While there are no explicit mentions of IonKraft presenting at conferences or fairs directly named after them yet publicly available in recent searches:

    • They are closely linked with RWTH Aachen University research groups active within industrial innovation circles.
    • The company operates at intersections relevant to events such as the 34th Aachen Colloquium on Sustainable Mobility (scheduled for October 2025), a prestigious conference focused on sustainable technologies including plastics processing innovations where companies like Freudenberg Sealing Technologies participate extensively alongside industry leaders from related fields—an environment ideal for networking or presentations by startups like IonKraft .

    Event Involvement & Partnerships

    IonKraft has announced significant partnerships indicating active involvement within industry ecosystems:

  • A notable collaboration with global packaging leader Greif was publicized early 2024. This pilot project focuses on applying plasma barrier coatings specifically for jerrycan plastic packaging aimed at enhancing recyclability without compromising chemical resistance—a breakthrough combining sustainability with commercial viability .

    • This partnership signals strategic event participation likely involving joint demonstrations or showcases aligned with trade fairs focused on sustainable manufacturing solutions.

    Summary

    Since winning EIC Accelerator funding in late 2022, IonKraft GmbH has been prominently featured across multiple reputable media outlets reporting its progress toward commercialization of revolutionary recyclable barrier coatings using plasma technology. Its leadership team appears engaged in entrepreneurial media channels although dedicated podcasts/interviews remain limited publicly. Collaborations with major firms such as Greif highlight active involvement in advancing sustainable industrial applications likely supported by participation at technical conferences targeting plastics innovation sectors.

    Sources

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