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 with innovative ideas and technologies. The program aims to foster the development of breakthrough innovations that can drive economic growth and create jobs in Europe.

Key Features of the EIC Accelerator

• Funding Structure: The EIC Accelerator offers both grants and equity investments, providing a financial framework that accommodates various stages of startup development.
• Support for High-risk Projects: It is particularly focused on high-risk, high-potential projects, especially in the DeepTech sector, which includes areas such as biotechnology, advanced materials, and artificial intelligence.
• Phased Approach: The funding is distributed in phases, encouraging projects to achieve specific milestones before receiving further support.

Funding Breakdown

• The EIC Accelerator provides grants of up to €2.5 million. This funding is intended to cover the costs associated with developing an innovative product or service, including R&D, prototyping, and testing.
• Grants are non-repayable and provide a financial cushion for startups to validate their technologies without immediate pressure of returns.

• The program offers equity investments up to €15 million until 2024 and €10 million starting from 2025.
• This equity option allows the EIC to take a stake in the company, ensuring that both parties have aligned interests in the success of the innovation. The equity funding helps startups scale their operations, expand market reach, and further develop their technologies.

Purpose in the European DeepTech and Startup Ecosystem

The EIC Accelerator's primary objective is to bolster the European startup ecosystem, particularly in the DeepTech domain, which is characterized by complex and sophisticated technologies that require significant investment and expertise.

• Driving Innovation: By targeting high-impact innovations, the program seeks to position Europe as a leader in technological advancements, enhancing its competitiveness on a global scale.
• Economic Growth: Supporting startups not only creates new jobs but also stimulates economic growth through innovation and the commercialization of new technologies.
• Bridging Funding Gaps: The EIC Accelerator helps bridge the funding gap often faced by startups, especially in the early stages where private investors may be hesitant to invest due to perceived risks.

Role in Scaling Companies and Attracting Private Funding

The EIC Accelerator plays a crucial role in helping companies scale by:

• Providing Initial Capital: The funding provided allows startups to reach critical development milestones, making them more attractive to private investors.
• Validation of Business Models: Winning the EIC Accelerator funding can serve as a stamp of approval for the startup's business model and technology, thereby increasing investor confidence.
• Networking and Mentorship: Through the EIC’s extensive network and resources, companies gain access to mentorship and connections that can facilitate further investment opportunities.

EIC Accelerator Winner: enGenome srl

Company: enGenome srl
Project Acronym: eVai
Website: engenome.com
Country: Italy
Cut-off Date: June 16, 2021

Project Description: eVai

The eVai project involves the development of a novel bioinformatics Software as a Service (SaaS) platform aimed at identifying and classifying the pathogenicity of single genomic variants and oligogenic variant combinations. This is critical for the diagnosis and treatment of genetic diseases, addressing a significant need in the healthcare sector.

• Innovative Approach: eVai utilizes advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques to analyze genetic data, providing healthcare professionals with valuable insights into genetic disorders.
• Impact on Healthcare: By improving the accuracy and efficiency of genetic diagnosis, eVai aims to enhance patient outcomes and facilitate personalized medicine.

Technology Basics and Background

The technology behind eVai is rooted in bioinformatics, a field that combines biology, computer science, and mathematics to analyze and interpret biological data.

• Genomic Variants: The platform focuses on genomic variants, which are alterations in the DNA sequence that can lead to diseases. Understanding these variants is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment.
• Pathogenicity Classification: The ability to classify variants as benign, likely benign, pathogenic, or likely pathogenic is essential for clinicians to make informed decisions about patient care.
• Oligogenic Variants: The platform also addresses oligogenic variant combinations, where multiple genetic variations contribute to disease, further complicating diagnosis and treatment.

Machine Learning and Algorithms: The eVai platform employs sophisticated algorithms to sift through large datasets, identify patterns, and provide predictive analytics on the potential impact of genomic variants.

By leveraging cutting-edge technology in bioinformatics, enGenome's eVai project has the potential to revolutionize the field of genetic diagnostics, offering more precise tools for healthcare providers and improving the quality of patient care.

2 The Funding Rounds

Since receiving the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021, enGenome srl, an Italian bioinformatics company, has secured additional funding through the following rounds:

As of the latest available information, there are no publicly disclosed records of additional funding rounds or investments beyond the EIC Accelerator grant in October 2021. The company's valuation and specific investor details for these funding events are not publicly available.

In summary, since the EIC Accelerator funding in June 2021, enGenome has secured a seed investment from G-factor in February 2019 and a €1.7 million grant from the EIC Accelerator in October 2021. No further funding rounds or investor information have been publicly disclosed since then.

3 The Press Releases

Since receiving the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021, enGenome srl, an Italian company specializing in genomic variant interpretation, has published several press releases detailing their advancements, partnerships, and certifications. Below is a summary of these developments:

1. VarChat Integrated on the UCSC Genome Browser (February 25, 2025): enGenome announced the integration of their VarChat tool into the UCSC Genome Browser. VarChat is an AI-driven chatbot designed to assist researchers and clinicians in interpreting genomic variants, enhancing the user experience by providing interactive conversations for better insights. (engenome.com)

2. AI’s Role in Making Rare Disease Diagnosis More Efficient (January 29, 2025): A press release highlighted the impact of artificial intelligence in streamlining the diagnosis of rare diseases. enGenome emphasized how their AI-driven solutions, such as eVai, contribute to more efficient and accurate variant interpretation, thereby accelerating the diagnostic process for rare genetic disorders. (engenome.com)

3. Run for Rare 2025: Let’s Make Every Step Count! (January 17, 2025): enGenome announced their participation in the "Run for Rare 2025" event, aiming to raise awareness and funds for rare diseases. The initiative underscores the company's commitment to supporting the rare disease community and promoting research into these conditions. (engenome.com)

4. enGenome Attending SPGH 2024 in Porto, Portugal (November 27, 2024): enGenome participated in the SPGH 2024 conference held in Porto, Portugal. The event provided a platform for the company to showcase their latest advancements in genomic variant interpretation and to engage with professionals in the field. (engenome.com)

5. New VarChat Chatbot: Interactive Conversations for Better Insights (November 4, 2024): The company introduced an enhanced version of their VarChat chatbot, offering more interactive and insightful conversations. This development aims to further assist users in understanding and interpreting complex genomic data. (engenome.com)

6. enGenome to Showcase New Breakthrough VarChat Feature at ASHG 2024 in Denver (October 28, 2024): enGenome announced their participation in the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) 2024 conference in Denver, where they planned to showcase a new breakthrough feature of their VarChat tool. This feature was designed to enhance the interpretation of genomic variants, reflecting enGenome's ongoing commitment to innovation in the field. (engenome.com)

7. enGenome in Palermo for Insights on AI in Variant Interpretation (October 8, 2024): The company attended an event in Palermo focused on the application of artificial intelligence in variant interpretation. enGenome shared their expertise and insights, contributing to the broader discussion on integrating AI into genomic research and diagnostics. (engenome.com)

8. enGenome to Present at SIGU 2024 in Padova: AI Innovations for More Efficient Analysis (September 25, 2024): enGenome announced their participation in the SIGU 2024 conference in Padova, where they planned to present their latest AI innovations aimed at improving the efficiency of genomic data analysis. This presentation highlighted the company's dedication to advancing genomic research through technological innovation. (engenome.com)

9. enGenome Achieves ISO/IEC 27001:2022 Certification for Information Security, Cybersecurity, and Privacy Protection (July 4, 2024): enGenome achieved ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification, demonstrating their commitment to information security, cybersecurity, and privacy protection. This certification reflects the company's adherence to international standards in managing sensitive data, ensuring the security and confidentiality of their clients' information. (engenome.com)

These press releases collectively highlight enGenome's ongoing efforts in technological innovation, strategic partnerships, and commitment to quality and security in the field of genomic variant interpretation.

4 The Technology Advancements

enGenome srl, an Italian bioinformatics company founded in 2016, specializes in software solutions for diagnosing genetic diseases. Their flagship product, eVai, is a CE IVD cloud platform that enables accurate, fast, and intuitive interpretation of genomic variants. eVai supports target panels, whole-exome, and whole-genome analyses, classifying variants according to ACMG and ClinGen guidelines and prioritizing them using a proprietary pathogenicity score. (engenome.com)

Since receiving the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021, enGenome has made several advancements:

• VarChat Integration: In February 2025, enGenome integrated VarChat, their AI-driven chatbot, into the UCSC Genome Browser, enhancing the accessibility and utility of genomic variant information. (engenome.com)
• VarChat Launch: In November 2023, enGenome launched VarChat, the first GenAI genomic variant assistant, offering interactive conversations for better insights into genomic data. (engenome.com)
• ISO/IEC 27001:2022 Certification: In July 2024, enGenome achieved ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification for information security, cybersecurity, and privacy protection, demonstrating their commitment to data security and compliance. (engenome.com)

Regarding market demonstrations, enGenome has showcased their technology at various events:

• SPGH 2024: EnGenome attended the SPGH 2024 conference in Porto, Portugal, in November 2024, presenting their AI-driven solutions for genomic analysis. (engenome.com)
• ASHG 2024: EnGenome showcased a new breakthrough VarChat feature at the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) 2024 meeting in Denver, Colorado, in October 2024. (engenome.com)

As for intellectual property, there is no publicly available information indicating that enGenome has filed new patents or published new scientific studies, clinical trials, or whitepapers since their EIC Accelerator funding.

In summary, since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding, enGenome has enhanced their technology by integrating VarChat into the UCSC Genome Browser, launched new features like VarChat, and obtained ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification. They have actively demonstrated their technology at industry events, though there is no public record of new patents or publications in the specified period.

5 The Partnerships and Customers

Since receiving the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021, enGenome srl, an Italian bioinformatics company, has achieved several significant milestones:

New Partnerships:

• Genomenon Partnership (May 2020): Prior to the EIC funding, enGenome partnered with Genomenon to integrate the Mastermind Genomic Search Engine into their eVai Variant Interpretation platform. This collaboration enhanced eVai's capability by providing users access to a comprehensive genomic association database, thereby improving variant interpretation accuracy and speed. (genomenon.com)
• University of Pavia Collaboration (March 2021): EnGenome collaborated with the University of Pavia's Biotechnology Department to develop scientific content. This partnership aimed to advance research and development in bioinformatics and genomics. (engenome.com)

New Customers:

Specific details about new customers acquired post-EIC funding are not publicly disclosed. However, enGenome has expanded its user base beyond Italy to include countries such as Spain, Greece, Portugal, and South Africa. (genomeweb.com)

Nature and Purpose of Relationships:

• Genomenon Partnership: The integration of Mastermind into eVai aimed to provide users with access to a vast repository of genomic literature, facilitating more accurate and efficient variant interpretation.
• University of Pavia Collaboration: This collaboration focused on developing scientific content, leveraging the expertise of both institutions to advance research in bioinformatics and genomics.

Market Positioning:

These collaborations have positioned enGenome as a leader in AI-driven genomic interpretation, enhancing its credibility and reach in the global market. The partnership with Genomenon, in particular, has expanded eVai's capabilities, making it a more attractive solution for healthcare providers and researchers worldwide.

Technology Advancements and Scaling:

• Genomenon Partnership: The integration of Mastermind has significantly improved eVai's variant interpretation accuracy and speed, enabling enGenome to offer a more robust product to its users.
• University of Pavia Collaboration: Collaborating with a renowned academic institution has facilitated access to cutting-edge research and development resources, aiding in the continuous improvement and scaling of enGenome's offerings.

These strategic partnerships and collaborations have collectively contributed to enGenome's growth, technological advancement, and enhanced market presence.

6 The Hiring and Company Growth

enGenome srl, an Italian bioinformatics company founded in 2016, specializes in software solutions for diagnosing genetic diseases. In June 2021, enGenome was selected to receive €1.7 million in grant funding from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator, a program supporting innovative companies in Europe. (engenome.com)

Team Growth and Hiring Status:

Specific details about enGenome's current headcount and team size are not publicly disclosed. The company has not publicly announced any major changes in management or the founding team since the EIC Accelerator funding. Additionally, there is no publicly available information indicating whether enGenome is currently hiring or has recently hired for key positions.

Company Growth and Future Outlook:

Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding, enGenome has achieved several milestones:

• Product Development: The company has developed eVai, a bioinformatics SaaS platform designed to identify and classify the pathogenicity of genomic variants for diagnosing and treating genetic diseases. (engenome.com)
• Certifications: enGenome achieved ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification for information security, cybersecurity, and privacy protection in July 2024. (engenome.com)
• Product Integration: In February 2025, enGenome's VarChat was integrated into the UCSC Genome Browser, enhancing its accessibility and utility for researchers. (engenome.com)

While specific hiring activities and team growth metrics are not publicly available, these developments suggest that enGenome is progressing in its mission to enhance healthcare through advanced genomics. The integration of VarChat into a widely used platform like the UCSC Genome Browser indicates a strategic move to expand the reach and impact of their products.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding enGenome's team size, hiring status, and organizational changes, it is recommended to contact the company directly or visit their official website.

7 The Media Features and Publications

Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021, enGenome srl from Italy has been featured in various media outlets and participated in several events. Below is a summary of their media features, publications, podcasts or interviews, conference participations, and event involvements:

Media Features:

GenomeWeb Article (August 29, 2022): EnGenome's CEO, Ettore Rizzo, discussed the company's expansion into the U.S. market and the development of its eVai software for rare disease diagnostics. (genomeweb.com)

Publications:

GenomeWeb Article (August 29, 2022): The article highlighted EnGenome's efforts to re-enter the U.S. market and its advancements in rare disease diagnostics. (genomeweb.com)

Podcasts or Interviews:

No specific podcasts or interviews featuring enGenome's team were identified in the available sources.

Conference and Fair Participations:

• Assises de Génétique Humaine et Médicale (January 9-12, 2024): EnGenome participated in this conference in Paris, showcasing how their eVai platform leverages AI to improve variant interpretation processes. (engenome.com)
• Precision Medicine World Conference (PMWC) in Silicon Valley (January 2024): EnGenome's Chief Scientific Officer, Susanna Zucca, presented VarChat, a genomic variant assistant powered by Generative AI. (engenome.com)
• Grandangolo in Genetica Medica 2023 (May 25-26, 2023): Susanna Zucca presented a session on how enGenome has integrated artificial intelligence into the diagnosis of rare diseases. (engenome.com)
• SIGU 2021 Virtual Meeting (November 17, 2021): EnGenome presented a live session on eVai and DIVAs, their platform for genomic variant interpretation and digenic variant analysis. (engenome.com)

Event Involvements:

• Run for Rare 2025 (January 17, 2025): EnGenome organized this event to raise awareness for Rare Disease Day. (engenome.com)
• SPGH 2024 in Porto, Portugal (November 27, 2024): EnGenome attended this event, focusing on AI-driven solutions in variant interpretation. (engenome.com)
• ASHG 2024 in Denver (October 28, 2024): EnGenome showcased a new breakthrough feature of VarChat at this conference. (engenome.com)
• Palermo Event on AI in Variant Interpretation (October 8, 2024): EnGenome participated in this event to share insights on AI applications in variant interpretation. (engenome.com)
• SIGU 2024 in Padova (September 25, 2024): EnGenome presented on AI innovations for more efficient analysis at this conference. (engenome.com)
• ESHG 2024 (May 20, 2024): EnGenome presented a Corporate Satellite with a guest from Twist Bioscience at this event. (engenome.com)
• GfH 2023 in Kassel, Germany (March 7, 2023): EnGenome participated in this event, focusing on genetic counseling and diagnostics. (engenome.com)
• ACMG 2023 in Salt Lake City (March 7, 2023): EnGenome attended this conference, discussing advancements in clinical genetics. (engenome.com)
• Grandangolo Roma 2022 (March 24, 2022): Susanna Zucca presented on DIVAs, enGenome's digenic variant interpreter, at this event. (engenome.com)

These engagements highlight enGenome's active participation in advancing genomic medicine and their commitment to integrating artificial intelligence into the diagnosis of rare diseases.