1 The EIC Accelerator Project

EIC Accelerator Program: An In-Depth Overview

The EIC Accelerator program, part of the European Innovation Council (EIC), is designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups that aim to develop breakthrough innovations with significant growth potential. This program is particularly focused on DeepTech sectors, which encompass advanced technologies that require substantial research and development investments and often present higher risk profiles. The EIC Accelerator provides a unique funding mechanism, combining grants and equity investments, thus facilitating a tailored approach to financing innovation.

Funding Structure

The EIC Accelerator offers a blended finance model that includes two primary components:

Purpose and Impact on the Ecosystem

The EIC Accelerator plays a crucial role in the European DeepTech and startup ecosystem by addressing the funding gap that often exists in the early and growth stages of innovative companies. By providing both grant and equity financing, the EIC Accelerator mitigates the financial risks associated with high-tech ventures, encouraging entrepreneurs to pursue ambitious projects.

Furthermore, the program fosters collaboration between startups and private investors. By demonstrating a commitment to innovation through public funding, the EIC Accelerator enhances the attractiveness of projects to private-sector investors, thereby catalyzing additional investment and scaling opportunities. This collaborative approach not only strengthens individual companies but also stimulates broader economic growth and technological advancement across Europe.

EIC Accelerator Winner: PYDRO GMBH

Project Overview: PYDRO - Water to Data

PYDRO GMBH, a German company, emerged as a winner of the EIC Accelerator for its innovative project, PYDRO, which focuses on "Sensing as a Service." The proposal was submitted on October 6, 2021, and successfully passed through the rigorous evaluation process, culminating in a Step 3 interview that secured funding.

Website: pydro.com

Project Description and Objectives

The PYDRO project aims to revolutionize the way water resources are monitored and managed by transforming physical water data into actionable insights through advanced sensing technologies. The concept of "Sensing as a Service" encapsulates the company's vision to provide comprehensive, real-time water quality and quantity data to various stakeholders, including municipalities, industries, and environmental organizations.

Technology Basics and Background

The core technology behind PYDRO involves the integration of IoT (Internet of Things) sensors, data analytics, and cloud computing. The system is designed to collect and analyze data from water bodies, offering insights into parameters such as temperature, pH levels, turbidity, and chemical composition. This data is then processed using sophisticated algorithms and presented through user-friendly dashboards, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding water usage, treatment, and conservation.

The importance of water quality monitoring has escalated due to increasing environmental concerns, regulatory pressures, and the need for sustainable water management practices. PYDRO addresses these challenges by providing an affordable and scalable solution that can be implemented in various settings, from urban water supply systems to agricultural practices.

Conclusion

The success of PYDRO GMBH in securing funding from the EIC Accelerator highlights the program's role in promoting innovative solutions that address critical societal challenges. By facilitating the development of advanced sensing technologies, the EIC Accelerator not only supports individual companies in their growth trajectories but also contributes to the broader goal of sustainable resource management and environmental protection in Europe.

2 The Funding Rounds

PYDRO GMBH: Financing and Funding Events Since EIC Accelerator Award

Financing Raised

PYDRO GmbH, based in Germany, has received significant funding through both grants and equity investments. The most notable event was its success in the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program. In February 2022, it was publicly announced that PYDRO would receive a subsidy (grant) of approximately €2 million from the EIC Accelerator fund and could additionally secure an equity investment of €1.5 million as part of this support package.

Prior to this, in October 2020, PYDRO closed an early-stage venture capital round worth about €1 million with participation from GENIUS Venture Capital, Gigahertz Ventures, and angel investor Thomas Clemens. As early as 2019, the company had also secured green start-up funding focused on digitization from the German Environment Foundation (DBU), though specific amounts were not disclosed.

Funding Rounds: Timing & Amounts

Date	Round Type	Amount	Investors/Source
Jun 2017	Grant	€50k	European Innovation Council
Jun 2019	Grant	Not disclosed	Leading Cities
Oct 2020	Seed/Early VC	~€1m	GENIUS Venture Capital, Gigahertz Ventures, Thomas Clemens
Feb/Oct 2021 / Early 2022 official announcement	EIC Accelerator Grant & Equity	~€2m grant + up to €1.5m equity	European Innovation Council

</em>The EIC application cut-off was October 6th, 2021; public results were announced February 17th, 2022.

Investor Information

• GENIUS Venture Capital
• Gigahertz Ventures
• Thomas Clemens (Angel Investor)
• German Environment Foundation (DBU) — grant provider
• European Innovation Council — grant and potential equity investor

Company Valuation

Dealroom.co estimated PYDRO’s enterprise value at $4–7 million as of October 2020. More recent valuations are not publicly available.

Exit Events: IPOs or Acquisitions

As of April 23rd, 2025:

• There is no public evidence that PYDRO GmbH has undergone any exit events such as an IPO or acquisition.
• No buyout news or secondary market activities have been reported in connection with the company.

PYDRO continues to operate independently with ongoing development in hydro-powered monitoring devices for smart water networks.

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Sources

• Water-to-data: PYDRO secured seven-digit seed investment
• Pydro company information – Space Tech Dealroom
• Pydro company information – Dealroom.co
• PYDRO is set to receive funding from the EIC Accelerator
• Pydro company information – Helsinki Dealroom

3 The Press Releases

Overview of PYDRO GmbH

PYDRO GmbH, a German clean-tech start-up based in Rostock and Hamburg, focuses on making water supply systems intelligent and sustainable. Founded in 2016, the company specializes in providing eco-friendly monitoring and sensing solutions for water utilities and distribution networks. Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in October 2021, PYDRO has continued to advance its innovative water management technologies.

Partnerships

PYDRO has formed significant partnerships, notably a strategic alliance with RBS Wave. This collaboration enhances PYDRO's capabilities in water loss management by integrating its hydro-powered solutions with RBS Wave's expertise in hydraulic engineering. Together, they offer comprehensive services including concept development for water loss reduction, sensor positioning with the LeakControl Position Optimizer, web-based data storage, and support for leak localization using the LeakControl LeakFinder software.

Technology Advancements

PYDRO's technological advancements include the development of self-powered and smart plug-and-play flow meter sensors. These sensors operate within a sensing-as-a-service paradigm, providing water managers with critical data to better understand and manage their networks. This technology is particularly valuable in addressing challenges related to power supply and remote location in water infrastructure.

Team Updates

While specific team updates since the EIC Accelerator funding are not detailed, PYDRO's leadership includes CEO Mulundu Sichone and CTO Miguel Linares. The company benefits from a multidisciplinary team with extensive experience in engineering, design, marketing, and product development.

Funding and Recognition

PYDRO has received significant recognition and funding, including the EIC Accelerator funding in 2021. Additionally, the company has been awarded the H2020 SME Phase 1 Instrument and has been accredited as a member of the German Water Partnership. PYDRO was also funded through public grants and other initiatives like the IFB Hamburg Grant and EIT Climate-KIC Berlin.

Patents

There is no specific information available regarding new patents filed by PYDRO since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding.

Press Releases

PYDRO's press releases primarily focus on its technological innovations and partnerships. The strategic alliance with RBS Wave and the advancement of its sensing-as-a-service model are highlighted in recent communications.

Sources

• News - PYDRO
• Pydro Forms a Strategic Alliance With RBS Wave
• About Pydro GmbH
• Sensing as a Service | PYDRO - Water to Data | Project

4 The Technology Advancements

PYDRO GmbH: Current Capabilities and Recent Advancements

PYDRO GmbH, a German clean-tech startup, is renowned for its innovative approach to making water supply systems intelligent and sustainable. Founded in 2016, the company has developed self-powered smart flow meters designed to monitor water networks without external power sources. These devices integrate flow, pressure, and temperature sensors, enabling real-time data transmission for efficient water management.

Current Capabilities

• Self-Powered Technology: PYDRO's devices are equipped with an integrated hydro-power turbine that harnesses energy from water flow, storing it in an internal battery for sustained operation. This technology allows for continuous monitoring without reliance on external power supplies.
• Multi-Sensor Platform: The PYDRO Turbine PT1 measures flow, temperature, and pressure with high accuracy. It is adaptable, allowing additional sensors to be integrated as needed.
• Robust Design: The device features a low-maintenance design with only one moving part, ensuring reliability over time. It is also submersible, making it suitable for installation in flooded chambers.
• Real-Time Data Transmission: Data is transmitted wirelessly via LTE CAT M1, NB IoT, and 2G to cloud-based or custom monitoring systems, facilitating real-time insights for water network management.

Advancements Since EIC Accelerator Funding

Following the receipt of the EIC Accelerator funding in October 2021, PYDRO has continued to enhance its offerings. Although specific advancements since the funding are not detailed in the available information, the company's participation in such programs indicates ongoing innovation and expansion efforts.

PYDRO's technology is designed to reduce water leaks and prevent pipe bursts by providing comprehensive data insights for smart water networks. The funding received from the EIC Accelerator is expected to support further development and scaling of these innovations, potentially leading to new features or expanded market demonstrations.

Market Demonstration and Technology Improvement

While there are no specific details on new demonstrations or trials conducted since the funding, PYDRO's focus on delivering data-driven solutions for water management suggests a continued emphasis on improving technology and market presence. The company's ability to integrate its devices seamlessly into water networks without external power sources remains a key advantage in the smart water infrastructure sector.

New Patents or Scientific Studies

There is no information available on new patents filed or scientific studies published by PYDRO GmbH since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding. The company's primary focus remains on developing and deploying its self-powered monitoring solutions for water networks.

Sources

• PYDRO - Water To Data
• About Pydro GmbH
• PYDRO GmbH - German Water Partnership
• WILL Startups – 2023
• PYDRO is set to receive funding from the EIC Accelerator

5 The Partnerships and Customers

Overview of PYDRO GmbH

PYDRO GmbH is a German cleantech startup based in Rostock and Hamburg. Founded in 2016, it aims to create intelligent and sustainable water supply systems through innovative monitoring and sensing solutions. The company has gained recognition for developing self-powered smart flow meters that don't require external power supplies, utilizing energy from water flow to operate.

Partnerships and Collaborations

PYDRO GmbH has been involved in several notable collaborations and partnerships:

• Isle Utilities: PYDRO participated in the Water Innovation Living Lab (WILL), an incubator program supported by industrial, academic, and supply chain operators in the water sector. This collaboration fosters innovative solutions to address water sector challenges.
• European Innovation Council (EIC): PYDRO won the EIC Accelerator Blended Finance, which includes both a grant and investment components. This support has been crucial for the company's growth and development plans.
• General Partnerships and Networks: PYDRO is accredited as a member of the German Water Partnership, which further enhances its network and potential for collaborative projects in the water management sector.

Customers and New Relationships

While specific customer names are not detailed, PYDRO's solutions are designed to serve water utilities and distribution networks. The company offers turnkey solutions for 24/7 water network monitoring, which includes consulting, data evaluation, hydraulic model calculations, and software setup for active water loss management.

New relationships, such as those facilitated through the EIC and Isle Utilities, position PYDRO GmbH to further leverage its technology advancements in the global water management market. These partnerships can help PYDRO scale its operations and expand its customer base by providing access to more resources, expertise, and networking opportunities.

Nature and Purpose of New Relationships

The new relationships established by PYDRO are primarily focused on enhancing its self-powered smart flow meter technology and expanding its reach in the water management sector. These partnerships aim to support the development of sustainable water infrastructure by providing reliable, real-time data on water flow, pressure, and temperature. This information is crucial for reducing water leaks, bursts, and improving overall network efficiency.

Advancements and Scaling

The partnerships and collaborations will contribute to PYDRO's technology advancements by providing access to funding, expertise, and potential customers. The EIC funding, for instance, will help in scaling up the production and deployment of its self-powered flow meters, enabling wider adoption in water utilities globally. Additionally, participation in programs like the Water Innovation Living Lab can facilitate the integration of new technologies and methodologies into PYDRO's existing solutions, further enhancing its competitive edge in the market.

Sources

• PYDRO - Water To Data
• Isle Utilities and Partners Launch Water Innovation Living Lab
• About Pydro GmbH
• PYDRO - SWAN Forum
• EIC Investor Day on Industrial Tech
• The most exciting startups and innovators in the water industry

6 The Hiring and Company Growth

PYDRO GmbH: Team Growth and Hiring Since EIC Accelerator Funding

PYDRO GmbH, a clean-tech start-up based in Rostock and Hamburg, Germany, has been focused on making water supply systems intelligent and sustainable. The company won the EIC Accelerator funding in October 2021, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey.

Current Team Size and Headcount

While specific details about the current headcount are not readily available, PYDRO GmbH's team consists of individuals with over 40 years of collective experience in engineering, industrial design, marketing, and product development. This multidisciplinary expertise helps the company provide comprehensive solutions for water network monitoring.

Hiring and Team Growth

PYDRO GmbH does not have publicly announced job openings at this time, but its growth since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding has likely involved expanding its team to support its innovative projects. The company's focus on developing self-powered, smart turbine flow meters indicates a need for skilled engineers and technicians.

Recent Key Positions and Impact

While specific recent hires are not detailed, the company's technological advancements suggest that key positions might include engineers specializing in water management systems, IoT technology, and data analysis. These roles would be crucial for enhancing PYDRO's monitoring and sensing solutions, enabling the company to better serve water utilities and expand its market presence.

Future of the Company

New team members would play a vital role in helping PYDRO GmbH scale and grow by enhancing its technical capabilities and market reach. The company's vision to make water supply systems intelligent and sustainable aligns with global needs for efficient water management, positioning it for significant growth potential in the clean-tech sector.

Major Changes in Management

There is no information available on major changes in PYDRO GmbH's management or founding team since the EIC Accelerator funding. The company continues to be led by Mulundu Sichone as CEO and Miguel Linares as CTO.

Growth Since EIC Accelerator Funding

Winning the EIC Accelerator funding in 2021 was a significant achievement for PYDRO GmbH, likely bolstering its development of self-powered water management systems. This funding would have supported further innovation and expansion, reinforcing the company's position in the clean-tech industry.

Sources

• PYDRO GmbH About
• PYDRO
• PYDRO GmbH Company Profile
• Pydro company information, funding & investors
• Pydro company information, funding & investors | Helsinki

7 The Media Features and Publications

PYDRO GmbH, a German company specializing in innovative self-powered, smart turbine flow meter systems for water management, has been featured and active in various media, events, and industry forums since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in October 2021.

Media Features and Publications

• PYDRO has been highlighted as one of 40 European companies selected by the European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT) to tackle water scarcity with technological innovations. This recognition emphasizes their potential to improve efficiency and sustainability in industrial water processes.
• Gigahertz Ventures News frequently covers PYDRO’s developments and activities. Several updates from 2022 through early 2025 include mentions of PYDRO’s technology developments as well as its CEO Christian Jurisch’s leadership.
• The company is also mentioned on platform articles such as the World Economic Forum Uplink site discussing self-powered monitoring for zero water waste.

Podcasts or Interviews

There are no direct records found of PYDRO team members participating specifically in podcasts or interviews dedicated solely to them. However, Python-related podcasts like Real Python Podcast or Talk Python To Me are prominent platforms that sometimes feature discussions about IoT technologies relevant to companies like PYDRO but without direct involvement from their team noted so far.

Conference and Fair Participation

• While specific conferences where PYDRO presented are not detailed explicitly, the company is involved in initiatives related to digital water technologies showcased at events such as those organized by EIT Water Scarcity programs which include meetings from September to November each year for testing solutions with final customers.
• Industry conferences focusing on smart water networks and digital innovation appear relevant contexts where companies like PYDRO could participate; however, explicit mentions of their presentations at major international conferences were not identified in available sources.

Company Involvement in Events

• The company's involvement includes participation in innovation challenges under EIT Community Water Scarcity initiative aimed at advancing sustainable industrial processes through new technologies such as those developed by PYDRO.
• They maintain an active presence on news platforms related to startups and ventures supporting environmental tech initiatives across Germany. Their engagement often coincides with regional industry gatherings documented via images shared by partners like Gigahertz Ventures suggesting attendance at multiple networking events throughout Germany between 2023–2025.

In summary, since winning the EIC Accelerator funding following its Step 2 proposal submission on October 6th, 2021, PYDRO GmbH has gained visibility primarily through EU-backed innovation programs focused on sustainable water management. Their media coverage resides mostly within specialized venture news outlets highlighting their technology's impact rather than broad mainstream media features. Direct podcast interviews or detailed conference presentations specifically involving the company team were not found publicly documented but might exist within niche industrial or investor circles.

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Sources:

• PYDRO News - pydro.com
• Gigahertz Ventures News - gigahertz.ventures
• World Economic Forum Uplink - uplink.weforum.org
• Real Python Podcast - realpython.com/podcasts/rpp/
• Talk Python To Me Podcast - talkpython.fm