1 The EIC Accelerator Project

EIC Accelerator Program Overview

The EIC Accelerator program is an integral part of the European Innovation Council (EIC) aimed at promoting innovation and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups with high-risk, high-impact projects. The program is particularly focused on DeepTech ventures, encompassing sectors such as biotechnology, artificial intelligence, advanced materials, and sustainable energy. The EIC Accelerator provides both grant funding and equity investments to enable companies to scale their innovations and facilitate their entry into the market.

Funding Structure

The EIC Accelerator offers a dual funding approach, consisting of grants and equity investments. The grant component can fund up to €2.5 million, which is typically allocated for research and development activities, prototyping, and initial market validation. This grant structure is designed to reduce the financial burden on startups, allowing them to focus on developing their technologies without immediate pressure to generate revenue.

On the equity side, the program offers investments that can reach up to €15 million until 2024, and this cap is set to decrease to €10 million starting in 2025. The equity investment is intended to help companies scale rapidly by attracting additional private-sector funding, thus allowing them to leverage the EIC's resources to achieve a more substantial market presence.

Purpose in the European Ecosystem

The EIC Accelerator plays a pivotal role in the European DeepTech and startup ecosystem by providing vital financial support and guidance. It aims to bridge the gap between innovative ideas and marketable products, addressing the common challenges that startups face in securing funding and scaling their operations. By offering a combination of grants and equity, the program encourages entrepreneurs to take calculated risks while ensuring that they have the necessary resources to bring their innovations to fruition.

The EIC Accelerator fosters collaboration across various stakeholders, including researchers, investors, and industry leaders, which enhances the likelihood of successful commercialization of advanced technologies. Additionally, the program aligns with the European Union’s goals of enhancing competitiveness, sustainability, and innovation across member states.

Role in Scaling Companies

The EIC Accelerator serves as a catalyst for the growth of innovative companies by providing not only financial resources but also strategic support in business development, market access, and networking opportunities. By facilitating connections with potential investors and partners, the program aids startups in attracting private-sector funding, which is crucial for their long-term sustainability and growth.

Moreover, the program offers mentoring and coaching, helping entrepreneurs refine their business models and strategies, thereby increasing their chances of success in a competitive marketplace. This holistic approach significantly enhances the potential for startups to scale effectively and establish a robust foothold in their respective industries.

Case Study: N-FIX NV and the N-Spire Project

Company Overview
N-FIX NV, based in Belgium, is a notable winner of the EIC Accelerator in 2023. The company focuses on developing innovative microbial products aimed at regenerative agriculture, which is increasingly becoming vital for sustainable farming practices.

Project Details
The project, acronymed N-Spire, emphasizes the creation of novel and scalable microbial products that enhance soil health and crop productivity. This initiative aligns with global efforts to shift towards sustainable agricultural practices that not only increase yields but also restore ecological balance.

Technology Background
The N-Spire project leverages cutting-edge microbiological research to develop microbial inoculants that can improve nutrient availability, promote plant growth, and enhance soil structure. These products are designed to restore the natural microbiome of the soil, which is often disrupted by conventional farming practices that rely heavily on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

N-FIX NV's microbial products aim to provide an eco-friendly alternative that supports regenerative agriculture principles. By utilizing naturally occurring microbes, the company seeks to create a sustainable solution that not only enhances agricultural productivity but also contributes to soil regeneration and biodiversity.

The project is grounded in extensive scientific research that demonstrates the role of soil microbiota in nutrient cycling, plant health, and ecosystem resilience. By harnessing these natural processes, N-FIX NV aims to offer farmers a viable path toward sustainable agriculture that can adapt to the challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation.

Conclusion

The EIC Accelerator program is a significant driver of innovation in the European ecosystem, particularly for DeepTech startups like N-FIX NV. By providing essential funding and support, the EIC Accelerator enables companies to realize their potential and contribute to a more sustainable future. The N-Spire project exemplifies the transformative possibilities within the agricultural sector, showcasing how innovative microbial products can lead to regenerative outcomes for both the environment and farming communities.

2 The Funding Rounds

N-Fix NV (Now Zymofix) - EIC Accelerator Winner

N-Fix NV, now rebranded as Zymofix, is a Belgian company that was an EIC Accelerator winner. The company submitted its Step 2 proposal on June 21, 2023, and subsequently won in the Step 3 interview.

Company Overview

Zymofix is a pioneer in industrial biotechnology, particularly known for its innovative approach to producing microorganisms. The company's technology focuses on using biomass residues, such as agricultural waste, to cultivate beneficial microorganisms through a novel solid-state fermentation process. These microbes can enhance plant health, degrade pollutants, and replace traditional chemical processes in various industries.

Financing and Funding Rounds

As of November 2024, Zymofix secured a €2 million seed funding round led by High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF), with The Nest Family Office and VP Capital as co-investors. This strategic investment aims to scale Zymofix's proprietary fermentation technology, supporting its rapid growth and expansion into sustainable agricultural and industrial applications.

Investor Information

The key investors in Zymofix's recent funding round include:

• High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF): The lead investor, which has been instrumental in supporting early-stage technology companies.
• The Nest Family Office: A co-investor that brings additional resources and expertise.
• VP Capital: Another co-investor participating in the funding round.

Timing and Amount of Funding Rounds

• Date: November 12, 2024
• Amount: €2 million

Company Valuation and Exit Events

Currently, there is no publicly available information regarding Zymofix's company valuation or any exit events such as IPOs, buyouts, or acquisitions.

Sources

• Micro-organisms, macro solutions - VP Capital
• Zymofix–SEVERAL: investment, 202411 financing round €2m led by HTGF
• N-Fix (SA) - Gent (9032) - BE0788847055 - Companyweb

3 The Press Releases

N-FIX NV: A Belgian EIC Accelerator Winner

N-FIX NV, a Belgian company, received funding from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator in June 2023. This funding supports innovative startups and SMEs in Europe, particularly those with groundbreaking technologies.

Company Overview

N-FIX NV is part of the Belgian startup ecosystem, and its inclusion in the EIC Accelerator highlights its potential in the field of novel and scalable microbial products. The company's focus aligns with the challenge call for novel technology in resilient agriculture, indicating its commitment to sustainable innovations.

Funding and Program Participation

In the June 2023 cut-off, N-FIX NV was among the successful applicants who received funding. The EIC Accelerator provides a combination of grants and equity investments, known as blended finance, which is designed to support long-term scalability and innovation. This funding model is preferred by the EIC to ensure that startups have the necessary financial resources to bring their innovations to market.

Geographical Impact

Belgium, particularly the region of Flanders, has been making strides in innovation with companies like N-FIX NV. The selection of N-FIX NV demonstrates the growing momentum of Belgian startups in securing EIC funding, with Flanders hosting several funded companies in the same cut-off period.

Technology and Innovation

Although specific details on N-FIX NV's technology advancements or partnerships are not widely disclosed, its participation in the EIC Accelerator suggests that it is developing innovative solutions, possibly in microbial products for agriculture. The EIC's focus on supporting deep-tech and high-impact ventures implies that N-FIX NV's work is aligned with these goals.

Press Releases and Updates

As of the latest available information, there are no specific press releases or updates on N-FIX NV's website (n-fix.be) regarding their EIC funding or subsequent developments. However, their inclusion in EIC Accelerator funding announcements and Belgian innovation news highlights their role in the European startup landscape.

Conclusion

N-FIX NV's success in securing EIC Accelerator funding underscores its potential as a leader in innovative agricultural technologies. As the company continues to grow and develop its products, it is likely to contribute significantly to the European deep-tech sector.

Sources: - EIC Accelerator winners and statistics June 2023: 47 European deeptech startups awarded 349€ million

• EIC Accelerator June '23 results - Nanotech
• EIC Accelerator - selected companies June 2023 cut-off

4 The Technology Advancements

Overview of N-Fix NV

N-Fix NV, based in Gent, Belgium, is a company focused on research and development in other physical and natural sciences. Established on July 25, 2022, it operates as a micro enterprise with a limited workforce. However, specific details about its current capabilities, advancements, or technological developments since receiving potential funding are not readily available in the public domain.

EIC Accelerator Funding

There is no publicly available information indicating that N-Fix NV received EIC Accelerator funding in June 2023. The company's activities and achievements since this date, including any improvements in technology or market demonstrations, cannot be determined from the current data.

Technological Advancements and Market Presence

Without specific updates or press releases from N-Fix NV, it is challenging to assess whether the company has enhanced its technology, presented new features, or demonstrated its technology in the market through customers, demonstrators, pilots, or clinical trials.

Patents, Studies, and Publications

There are no published details on new patents, scientific studies, clinical trials, or whitepapers from N-Fix NV that would suggest recent advancements or contributions to their field.

Conclusion

Given the limited publicly available information, it is difficult to provide a comprehensive overview of N-Fix NV's advancements and activities. The company's research focus and small size suggest a potentially innovative approach, but more detailed insights are not currently accessible.

Sources

• N-Fix (SA) - Gent (9032) - BE0788847055 - Companyweb
• EIC Accelerator: June cut-off results - Horizon Europe NCP Portal
• EIC Accelerator – 71 companies selected in the most competitive funding round so far - European Innovation Council

5 The Partnerships and Customers

N-FIX NV (Now Zymofix): Enhancing Partnerships and Market Position

N-FIX NV, now known as Zymofix, received the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding in June 2023. This funding supports Zymofix's N-Spire project, which focuses on scaling its microbial manufacturing platform to produce bioactive biostimulants. These biostimulants are aimed at reducing chemical inputs in agriculture, improving soil health, and supporting regenerative practices.

Partnerships and Associations

Zymofix is actively forming partnerships with agrochemical distributors and agricultural cooperatives to facilitate the commercialization of its products. These partnerships are crucial for expanding its market reach and ensuring the effective distribution of its bio-based solutions.

New Partners and Customers

While specific names of new partners or customers are not detailed in available information, Zymofix's partnerships are likely to involve entities within the agricultural and agrochemical sectors. The focus on establishing these relationships underscores a strategic approach to market expansion and technology advancement.

Nature of New Relationships

The partnerships established by Zymofix are centered around advancing sustainable agricultural practices. These relationships are expected to enhance the company's ability to scale its technology and expand its market presence. By collaborating with key players in the agricultural sector, Zymofix aims to accelerate the adoption of its innovative biostimulants.

Purpose and Market Positioning

The purpose of these partnerships is to leverage synergies between Zymofix's technological capabilities and the distribution networks of its partners. This collaboration will position Zymofix as a leader in sustainable agriculture solutions, enhancing its market presence and contributing to a shift towards more environmentally friendly farming practices.

Technology Advancements and Scaling

The partnerships will facilitate technology advancements by allowing Zymofix to refine its products based on market feedback and to scale its production capabilities. By integrating feedback from partners and customers, Zymofix can improve its microbial manufacturing processes, leading to more efficient and effective biostimulant production.

Conclusion

Zymofix's partnerships, supported by the EIC Accelerator funding, are pivotal in its mission to transform agricultural practices. By strengthening its market position through strategic collaborations, Zymofix is poised to make significant contributions to regenerative agriculture and sustainable development.

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Sources: - N-Spire Project - ZYMOFIX

• Fluidda and Materialise announce partnership (General context on partnerships in Belgium)
• Euroclear Delivers Strong Performance in 2023 (General context on business partnerships and performance)

6 The Hiring and Company Growth

N-FIX NV: Growth and Team Development Post EIC Accelerator Funding

N-FIX NV, an EIC Accelerator winner from Belgium, received funding in June 2023. However, specific details regarding their hiring practices, current headcount, or team size are not readily available in public sources. This section will outline general strategies that companies like N-FIX NV might employ to leverage their funding and accelerate growth.

Hiring and Team Growth

After receiving significant funding, companies typically focus on expanding their team to enhance research and development capabilities, increase operational efficiency, and drive innovation. The EIC Accelerator funding is designed to support high-risk, high-reward projects, which often require specialized talent in areas such as technology, marketing, and business development.

Current Team Size and Headcount

While specific details about N-FIX NV's current team size or headcount are not available, it is common for funded startups to rapidly increase their workforce to meet the demands of accelerated growth and project development.

Hiring Status

N-FIX NV is likely to be actively hiring to fill key positions that can support the company's growth strategy. These roles may include scientists, engineers, product managers, and business developers who can contribute to technology development and market expansion.

Growth and Recent Hires

The company's growth trajectory would likely involve strategic hires in critical areas that align with its mission and the objectives of the EIC Accelerator funding. Key hires might include experienced professionals in research and development, marketing, and operations.

Impact of New Team Members

New team members play a crucial role in scaling and growing the company. They bring in fresh expertise, enhance the company's capacity to innovate, and contribute to the execution of strategic plans. This is particularly important for companies like N-FIX NV, as they aim to make a significant impact in their industry by leveraging the EIC Accelerator funding.

Changes in Management or Founding Team

There are no publicly available details regarding changes in N-FIX NV's management or founding team following their EIC Accelerator win. However, it is common for funded companies to strengthen their leadership as they grow and expand their operations.

Conclusion

N-FIX NV's growth post-EIC Accelerator funding likely involves strategic hiring and team expansion to support the development of innovative technologies. While specific details are not available, companies in similar positions often focus on building a strong team to drive growth and achieve strategic goals.

Sources:

• N-FIX NV
• No specific information about N-FIX NV's hiring practices or team growth was found in the search results.

7 The Media Features and Publications

N-FIX NV Overview

N-FIX NV, based in Belgium, is a company involved in the production of beneficial microorganisms from biomass residues, focusing on sustainable agriculture and biotechnology. It has gained recognition for its innovative approaches in industrial biotechnology.

Media Features and Publications

As of the latest available data, there is limited specific media coverage or publications directly mentioning N-FIX NV. However, companies in the industrial biotechnology sector often feature in industry-specific publications and events. N-FIX NV's work aligns with broader trends in sustainable biotechnology and microbial solutions.

Content from Publications

While detailed content from publications specifically about N-FIX NV is scarce, the company's focus on using biomass residues to produce microorganisms positions it within a growing field of sustainable biotechnology and agriculture. This sector often receives attention in scientific and industry-focused publications for its potential to address environmental challenges.

Podcasts and Interviews

There are no specific mentions of N-FIX NV team members participating in podcasts or interviews in the available data. However, companies in similar fields often engage in industry-specific discussions and interviews.

Conference and Fair Visits

N-FIX NV would likely participate in conferences and fairs related to biotechnology and sustainable agriculture, given its industry focus. These events provide platforms for networking and showcasing technological advancements. Specific details about N-FIX NV's participation in such events are not readily available.

Involvement in Events

The company's involvement in events would likely be centered around its role in industrial biotechnology and sustainable practices. Participation in conferences, workshops, or exhibitions focused on these themes would align with its mission to scale up microbial solutions for agriculture and beyond.

EIC Accelerator Funding

N-FIX NV was an EIC Accelerator winner, securing funding in June 2023. This recognition highlights its potential in driving innovation within the biotechnology sector, particularly in sustainable agriculture.

Company Mission and Technology

N-FIX NV, now operating as Zymofix, specializes in scaling the production of beneficial microorganisms by fermenting biomass residues. Its technology is designed to create large-scale, continuous, and fast manufacturing of microorganisms, supporting sustainable agriculture and other applications. The company has cultivated collaborations with global agrochemical leaders and integrates its technology into circular value chains.

Sources: - N-Fix N.V. - Life-Sciences-Germany.com

• N-Fix (SA)
• ZYMOFIX
• Emile Redant | CEO at N-Fix NV