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) and startups in Europe, particularly those working on innovative technologies. This initiative aims to bridge the funding gap for high-risk, high-potential companies, especially in the DeepTech sector, which includes advanced technologies such as AI, biotechnology, and renewable energy. The EIC Accelerator provides both grants and equity investment, facilitating the scaling of these companies and enabling them to bring their groundbreaking ideas to market.
Funding Structure
The EIC Accelerator funding is structured as blended finance, which includes a combination of grants and equity investments. The grant component can reach up to €2.5 million, aimed at covering the costs associated with developing a product or service. This grant is non-repayable, making it an attractive option for startups that require initial capital to prove their concepts.
In addition to the grant, the equity investment can provide up to €15 million until 2024, which is aimed at helping businesses scale operations and expand market reach. From 2025 onwards, this equity investment will be capped at €10 million. This flexible funding structure allows companies to choose the right mix of both components according to their specific needs and growth stages.
Purpose of the EIC Accelerator
The EIC Accelerator plays a pivotal role in the European startup ecosystem by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. It aims to support companies that are developing cutting-edge technologies with the potential for significant economic and societal impact. By providing financial backing and strategic support, the EIC Accelerator helps these companies navigate the challenges of scaling and accessing private sector funding.
Moreover, the program emphasizes the importance of private investments, encouraging companies to leverage EIC funding to attract additional funding from venture capitalists and other private investors. This approach not only enhances the overall sustainability of funded projects but also strengthens the European innovation landscape by fostering collaboration between public and private sectors.
Case Study: WOOPTIX S.L. and the WARM Project
Company Overview: WOOPTIX S.L.
WOOPTIX S.L., based in Spain, is a distinguished winner of the EIC Accelerator funding with its project titled WARM (Wide Angle and Resolution Metrology). The company is focused on developing advanced optical technologies that push the boundaries of metrology and imaging.
Project Description: WARM
The WARM project aims to revolutionize metrology by providing a wide-angle and high-resolution imaging solution. This innovative technology is designed to enhance measurement accuracy and efficiency across various applications, including industrial manufacturing and quality control. By integrating advanced optical components with cutting-edge software, WOOPTIX seeks to offer a comprehensive solution that meets the growing demands for precision and reliability in measurement processes.
Technology Basics and Background
WOOPTIX’s technology is grounded in sophisticated optical engineering principles, leveraging advanced algorithms and innovative hardware designs. The core of the WARM project involves the development of a wide-angle imaging system that can capture high-resolution images while maintaining a broad field of view. This capability is particularly beneficial for applications requiring detailed inspections and measurements over large areas, such as semiconductor manufacturing and automotive industries.
The optical system employs state-of-the-art lens designs and sensor technologies, enabling it to achieve unprecedented levels of detail and accuracy. The integration of these components allows for real-time data processing and analysis, significantly reducing measurement times and enhancing productivity.
Furthermore, the software component of the WARM project plays a crucial role in interpreting the captured data, employing machine learning algorithms to optimize measurement processes and results. This innovative approach not only improves the efficiency of traditional metrology but also opens new possibilities for applications in emerging fields such as augmented reality and autonomous systems.
Conclusion
The EIC Accelerator program serves as a vital catalyst for innovation within the European startup ecosystem, providing essential funding and support for high-potential companies like WOOPTIX S.L. and their WARM project. By facilitating access to both grants and equity investments, the EIC Accelerator empowers startups to scale their operations, attract private investments, and contribute meaningfully to technological advancements in DeepTech and beyond.
2 The Funding Rounds
Financing Raised and Funding Rounds
Since submitting its EIC Accelerator proposal in October 2021, WOOPTIX S.L., headquartered in Spain, has raised significant venture capital through several funding rounds:
- Series B Round (Announced July/August 2023)
- Amount: €10 million (approximately $11 million)
- Timing: Announced July 21, 2023; confirmed by multiple sources through August 2023
- Investors:
- Bullnet Capital
- CDTI (Centre for the Development of Technology and Innovation)
- Danobatgroup
- European Innovation Council Fund (EIC Fund)
- Fagor Automation
- Intel Capital
- Mondragón Promotion Fund / MONDRAGON Corporation
- TEL Venture Capital, Inc.
- Series C Round (Announced February 18, 2025)
- Amount: Over €10 million
- Timing: Announced February 18, 2025
- Lead Investors:
Grant and Additional Funding
Investor Information
WOOPTIX’s investor base includes a blend of prominent venture capital firms specializing in deep tech and semiconductor technologies as well as European public innovation funds:
- Samsung Venture Investment Corporation
- SETT – Spanish Society for Technological Transformation
- Bullnet Capital
- CDTI – Centre for the Development of Technology and Innovation
- Danobatgroup
- European Innovation Council Fund
- Fagor Automation
- Intel Capital
- Mondragón Promotion/MONDRAGON Corporation
- TEL Venture Capital Inc.
These investors have consistently participated across multiple funding rounds.
Company Valuations
Reported valuation data is limited. However: In October 2020 Wooptix completed an earlier round with a reported valuation of approximately $16.5 million. No explicit valuations are publicly available for Series B or C; however the increased amounts raised (€10M+ per round) suggest substantial growth since then.
Exit Events
As of April 23rd 2025: There are no reports or announcements regarding an IPO or major buyout/acquisition event involving WOOPTIX S.L. The company remains private but pre‑IPO shares are available on secondary trading platforms such as EquityZen—indicating ongoing investor interest but not an official liquidity event at this time.
Summary Table — Major Funding Rounds Since Late 2021
| Date | Round | Amount Raised | Key Investors |
|---|---|---|---|
| July/August 23 | Series B | €10M ($11M) | Bullnet Cap., CDTI, Danobatgroup, EIC Fund, Intel Cap., etc. |
| Feb 18th 25 | Series C | >€10M | Samsung Ventures (lead), SETT + all major prior investors |
WOOPTIX has continued to attract top-tier institutional backing post-EIC Accelerator win—fueling rapid international expansion in semiconductor metrology technology with no exit event having occurred thus far.
Sources
Wooptix Secures Over €10 Million in Series C Funding Wooptix closes $11 million Series B financing round – SEMI.org Wooptix closes €10 million Series B financing round Wooptix Closes $11M Series B Financing Round – Semiconductor Digest Tenerife-based Wooptix closes €10m series-B to automate its semiconductor metrology business Observatoire Deeptech — Wooptix company information & funding history Invest In wooptix Stock — EquityZen pre‑IPO platform
3 The Press Releases
Overview of Wooptix S.L. Since EIC Accelerator Funding in 2021
Wooptix S.L., a Spanish company specializing in semiconductor metrology using wavefront phase imaging technology, received funding from the EIC Accelerator in October 2021. Since then, the company has continued to innovate and expand its presence in the semiconductor industry.
Recent Developments and Achievements
- Series C Funding: Wooptix secured over €10 million in a Series C funding round led by Samsung Venture Investment Corporation and SETT (Spanish Society for Technological Transformation) in February 2025. This investment aims to accelerate the development of its flagship product, Phemet®, and expand its global reach.
- Pollen Strategic Partnership: Wooptix partnered with Pollen, a French software company, to integrate Smart3 AI-powered process control into its metrology equipment. This collaboration enhances wafer analysis and quality control processes in semiconductor manufacturing.
- SEBI RT1000 Camera Collaboration: Wooptix collaborated with poLight ASA on the SEBI RT1000 Wavefront Phase Camera, which is designed for high-resolution wavefront phase imaging. This camera is aimed at laboratories for various applications.
- Recognition and Participation: Wooptix was recognized as a Top Semiconductor Solutions Provider in 2024 by Semiconductor Review. The company has participated in significant industry events such as SEMICON Europa and MNC 2024, showcasing its innovative metrology solutions.
Technology and Products
- Phemet® Metrology Tool: Wooptix's Phemet® delivers high lateral resolution and fast measurement capabilities, making it a leading tool in semiconductor metrology. It collects over 16 million data points with sub-nanometer height resolution, enhancing production efficiency and reducing energy waste.
- Wavefront Phase Imaging Technology: Derived from research in adaptive optics for astronomy, this technology allows for precise measurement of wafer topography, critical for optimizing semiconductor manufacturing processes.
Team and Leadership
Future Prospects
The company continues to focus on developing its metrology solutions to meet the increasing demand for precision and efficiency in semiconductor manufacturing. With its innovative technology and strategic partnerships, Wooptix is well-positioned for further growth in the global semiconductor industry.
Sources
- Press Releases - Wooptix
- Press Release Archives - Wooptix
- Wooptix secures €10 million for phase imaging technology and its Fabtool Phemet
- Tenerife-based Wooptix closes €10 million Series B to automate its semiconductor metrology business
- Resource Library | SEMI
- Pollen Strategic Partnership - Wooptix
- Spain's Wooptix gets €10M to advance wavefront metrology tool
- Wooptix collaborates with poLight ASA on their Phase RT1000 Camera
4 The Technology Advancements
WOOPTIX S.L.: Current Capabilities and Advancements
Overview of WOOPTIX S.L.
WOOPTIX S.L., based in Spain, is a leader in semiconductor metrology, leveraging wavefront phase imaging technology derived from adaptive optics research in astronomy. The company has been focusing on developing innovative metrology tools for the semiconductor industry, with a flagship product named Phemet® .
Current Capabilities
WOOPTIX's Phemet® delivers high lateral resolution and near real-time process capability, significantly reducing production times and increasing supply chain efficiency. This technology allows for the collection of over 16 million data points with sub-nanometer height resolution, enabling semiconductor manufacturers to detect nanoscale defects rapidly and accurately . This capability is crucial for reducing energy waste during production and enhancing overall manufacturing efficiency.
Advancements Since EIC Accelerator Funding (October 6, 2021)
Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding, WOOPTIX has made significant advancements. The company secured additional funding rounds, including a €10 million Series B financing round in 2023 and over €10 million in a Series C funding round in 2025 . These investments have been instrumental in accelerating product development, expanding international reach, and scaling the company's team to meet growing industry demands.
Technology Improvements and New Features
WOOPTIX's continued innovation has led to improvements in its semiconductor metrology tools. Phemet® is on track for full automation and factory floor deployment for in-line testing, which will further enhance its efficiency and reliability in detecting defects at the nanoscale . The company's technology has been recognized as a significant advancement in the industry, offering higher resolution and faster measurement capabilities compared to traditional tools.
Market Demonstration
Phemet® has been adopted by major semiconductor manufacturers, demonstrating WOOPTIX's ability to integrate its technology into real-world manufacturing environments. The company is expanding its presence across Europe, the United States, and Asia, showcasing its technology through various deployments and customer engagements .
New Patents, Scientific Studies, and Trials
While there is no specific mention of new patents or scientific studies directly linked to the EIC Accelerator funding, WOOPTIX's advancements in wavefront phase imaging technology have been recognized as a significant innovation in the semiconductor metrology field. The focus has been on commercializing and improving existing technologies rather than publishing new scientific studies or clinical trials.
Sources
Wooptix - The ultimate image solutions Wooptix 2023 Wooptix secures €10 million for phase imaging technology and its Fabtool Phemet Tenerife-based Wooptix closes €10 million Series B to automate its semiconductor metrology business Spain's Wooptix gets €10M to advance wavefront metrology tool Wooptix Secures Over €10 Million in Series C Funding Wooptix closes $11 million Series B financing round Wooptix Raises Over €10M in Series C Funding Portfolio | TEL Venture Capital, Inc.5 The Partnerships and Customers
WOOPTIX S.L. Partnerships and Market Positioning Post-EIC Accelerator Funding Since securing EIC Accelerator funding in October 2021, WOOPTIX S.L. has forged strategic partnerships and customer relationships to advance its semiconductor metrology technology and global market presence.Key Partnerships and Customers
- Prodrive Technologies: A declaration of intent for a strategic partnership was signed to collaborate on integrating WOOPTIX’s wavefront phase imaging systems into industrial manufacturing processes.
- Investor Consortium: Recent Series B (2023) and Series C (2025) funding rounds included participation from Samsung Venture Investment, Intel Capital, Bullnet Capital, the European Innovation Council Fund (EIC Fund), TEL Venture Capital, MONDRAGÓN Corporation, and the Spanish Society for Technological Transformation (SETT). These investors provide financial backing, technological validation, and market access.
- Global Semiconductor Manufacturers: Major manufacturers have adopted WOOPTIX’s flagship product, Phemet®, though specific customer names remain undisclosed.
Nature of Relationships and Strategic Purpose
The partnerships aim to:Market Positioning Impact
WOOPTIX is positioned as a leader in semiconductor metrology due to:- Patented Wavefront Technology: Derived from astronomical adaptive optics, enabling sub-nanometer resolution measurements critical for AI-driven chip miniaturization.
- Global Reach: Offices in Tenerife, Madrid, San Francisco, Asia, Europe, supported by cross-border investor alliances like Samsung Ventures.
Technology Advancements Through Collaborations
Sources
6 The Hiring and Company Growth
Wooptix S.L., a Spanish semiconductor metrology company that won the EIC Accelerator funding in October 2021, has demonstrated notable growth and team expansion since receiving this support.Current Team Size and Growth
- As of recent data, Wooptix has approximately 48 employees.
- The company grew its employee count by about 14% in the last year, indicating steady team expansion aligned with business scaling.
Hiring Status and Key Positions
- Following a significant Series C funding round of over €10 million in early 2025, which included participation from the European Innovation Council Fund among other investors, Wooptix announced plans to scale its team to meet growing industry demand. This implies active or imminent hiring efforts.
- While specific new hires are not listed in detail beyond existing key personnel such as Ricardo García (Computer Vision Manager), Daniel Paz (Software Developer), and Alex Roqué (Mechanical Engineer), the emphasis on multidisciplinary expertise suggests recruitment across software development, hardware engineering, optical sciences, and production tool automation.
Impact of New Team Members on Future Growth
- The influx of new talent is intended to accelerate product development—especially their flagship semiconductor metrology tool Phemet®—expand international reach, and enhance manufacturing automation capabilities.
- These additions are crucial for scaling up production capacity and sustaining innovation to address surging global demands driven by AI advancements requiring more complex semiconductors.
- The company’s CEO José Manuel Rodriguez Ramos highlighted that this investment enables pushing boundaries in resolution quality within semiconductor technology landscape while preparing for fully automated factory-floor deployment planned for 2025.
Management or Founding Team Changes
In summary, Wooptix S.L. has leveraged its EIC Accelerator funding along with additional investments to grow from an estimated ~42 employees (implied by a 14% increase leading to current ~48) into a larger multidisciplinary team focused on advancing their high-resolution semiconductor metrology solutions. Their ongoing hiring supports rapid product innovation and global market scaling without reported disruptions at executive levels.
Sources:
- About Us - Wooptix
- Wooptix - TEL Venture Capital Portfolio
- Growjo: Wooptix S.L.
- Eu-startups: Wooptix secures €10 million
7 The Media Features and Publications
Overview of Wooptix S.L.
Wooptix S.L., a Spanish company specializing in semiconductor metrology, has made significant strides since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in October 2021. Founded in 2014 by Javier Elizalde, Wooptix leverages wavefront phase imaging technology derived from adaptive optics research in astronomy to enhance precision in semiconductor manufacturing.
Media Features and Publications
Wooptix has been highlighted in several publications for its innovative approach to semiconductor metrology. Notably, eu-startups and AFP have covered Wooptix's successful Series C funding round, where it secured over €10 million led by Samsung Venture Investment Corporation and the Spanish Society for Technological Transformation (SETT). These investments have positioned Wooptix as a leader in the field, particularly with its flagship product, Phemet®.
Content from Publications
Publications emphasize Wooptix's role in addressing the semiconductor industry's need for precision and efficiency. Phemet®, Wooptix's semiconductor metrology Fabtool, offers high lateral resolution and near real-time process capabilities, significantly reducing production times and increasing supply chain efficiency. The company's technology allows for the collection of over 16 million data points with sub-nanometer height resolution, enabling semiconductor manufacturers to reduce energy waste during production.
Podcasts or Interviews
There is no publicly available information on specific podcasts or interviews featuring the Wooptix team. However, the company's CEO, José Manuel Rodriguez Ramos, has been quoted in several articles discussing Wooptix's advancements and strategic partnerships.
Conference and Fair Visits
While specific conference participations are not detailed, Wooptix is actively involved in the photonics and semiconductor industries. The company has delivered its wavefront phase sensor to institutions like the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, indicating engagement with educational and research communities.
Involvement in Events
Wooptix is positioned for global growth with an international presence across Europe, the United States, and Asia. The company's participation in industry events likely aligns with its strategic expansion plans, though specific event details are not publicly highlighted.
Sources:
- Wooptix - The ultimate image solutions
- Wooptix secures €10 million for phase imaging technology and its Fabtool Phemet
- Wooptix Secures Over €10 Million in Series C Funding Led by Samsung Venture Investment Corporation
- Relativity Networks, Wooptix, Lumotive and Hyperlume raise over $70m to drive optical communications
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