1 The EIC Accelerator Project
The EIC Accelerator program, part of the European Innovation Council (EIC), is designed to support innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups in Europe, particularly those operating within the deep tech sector. This program provides funding and resources to help these companies develop and scale their breakthrough innovations, ultimately aiming to foster technological advancements that can have a significant impact on society and the economy.Funding Structure
The EIC Accelerator employs a blended finance model, combining grants and equity investments to support eligible projects. Companies can receive grants of up to €2.5 million to facilitate the development and prototyping of innovative products, processes, or services. Additionally, the program offers equity investments of up to €15 million until 2024, and this amount will be reduced to a maximum of €10 million starting in 2025. This dual funding approach enables companies to secure the necessary capital for both research and development as well as market entry, reducing reliance on traditional financing methods.
Purpose in the Ecosystem
The EIC Accelerator aims to bolster the European deep tech and startup ecosystem by enabling companies to scale their operations and bring their innovations to market. It acts as a catalyst for attracting private sector investment by demonstrating the viability of projects supported under its umbrella. This is particularly important in the deep tech space, where innovations often require significant upfront investment and long development timelines. The EIC Accelerator helps bridge the funding gap by providing early-stage financial backing, thereby increasing the likelihood of private investors participating in subsequent funding rounds.
Case Study: FIMUSKRAFT and the FKBP Project
FIMUSKRAFT, a Finnish company, is a notable winner of the EIC Accelerator program. Their project, the Fimuskraft Biogas Plant (FKBP), represents a groundbreaking approach to managing biowaste through a novel biotechnological method. The project focuses on the treatment and valorization of biowaste, converting it into valuable energy and resources.
Technology Overview
The FKBP project utilizes advanced biotechnology to process organic waste materials, including food waste, agricultural residues, and other biodegradable materials. The process involves anaerobic digestion, where microorganisms break down organic matter in the absence of oxygen. This results in the production of biogas, a renewable energy source, which can be used for electricity generation, heating, or as a vehicle fuel.
The technology behind FKBP is distinguished by its cost-effectiveness and efficiency. Traditional biogas plants often face challenges related to operational costs and efficiency rates. FIMUSKRAFT's approach leverages innovative microbial strains and optimized digestion conditions to enhance the breakdown of organic material, thereby increasing biogas yield and reducing processing time. This not only makes the biogas production more economically viable but also opens up new possibilities for waste management, contributing to a circular economy by turning waste into a resource.
Conclusion
The EIC Accelerator program plays a crucial role in supporting innovative companies like FIMUSKRAFT in their efforts to revolutionize technology and processes that address pressing environmental challenges. By providing substantial grant and equity funding, the program facilitates the transition from concept to commercialization, thereby enhancing the overall competitiveness of the European deep tech landscape. FIMUSKRAFT's FKBP project exemplifies the potential of biotechnological innovations in transforming biowaste into valuable energy solutions, underscoring the importance of such initiatives in achieving sustainability goals.
2 The Funding Rounds
Financing Raised by FIMUSKRAFT Since EIC Accelerator Funding
EIC Accelerator Funding and Subsequent Rounds
FIMUSKRAFT, a Finnish cleantech company specializing in modular bioenergy plants, has secured notable funding through the European Innovation Council (EIC) programs:
- In September 2019, FIMUSKRAFT received a €50,000 grant from the European Innovation Council.
- In October 2021, aligning with their EIC Accelerator application cut-off date (October 6, 2021), FIMUSKRAFT was awarded a significantly larger sum—€2.4 million—from the EIC.
The total publicly disclosed funding raised by FIMUSKRAFT is approximately €2.5 million as of early 2025.
Funding Rounds: Timing and Amounts
Date | Investor | Amount | Round Type |
---|---|---|---|
Sep 2019 | European Innovation Council | €50,000 | Grant |
Oct 2021 | European Innovation Council | €2.4 million | Grant/Equity Blend |
Note: The October 2021 round aligns with the EIC Accelerator's blended finance model: it includes both a non-dilutive grant component and an equity or equity-like capital investment component.
Investors
Both disclosed rounds were funded solely by the European Innovation Council (EIC), which operates under Horizon Europe and provides competitive grants as well as potential direct investments for highly innovative startups.
Details on Funding Structure
The EIC Accelerator program typically offers up to €2.5 million in grants per company; there is also an optional equity investment component ranging from €0.5–15 million per company facilitated via the European Investment Bank. For FIMUSKRAFT’s October 2021 round (€2.4M), this likely included both grant financing and potential equity support subject to further due diligence post-selection.
Company Valuation
There are no public disclosures indicating explicit pre-money or post-money valuations for FIMUSKRAFT at any of its funding events up to April 24, 2025.
Exit Events (IPO/Buyout/Acquisition)
As of the current date: - There are no records or credible reports of any exit events involving FIMUSKRAFT.
Sources
- Fimuskraft company information, funding & investors – Opportunity Austin
- Fimuskraft company information & investors – Dealroom Israel
- Fimuskraft – Turin Tech Map
- Two Turku-based companies receive multi-million funding from EU Commission – BusinessTurku
3 The Press Releases
FimusKraft: An Overview
FimusKraft, a Finnish cleantech company based in Finland, has been making significant strides in the biogas and bioenergy sector. Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in October 2021, the company has continued to innovate and expand its operations.
Technology and Innovations
FimusKraft utilizes a revolutionary horizontal bio-fermentation process that enhances biogas production efficiency. Their modular bioenergy plants are designed to convert biowaste into electricity, heat, and organic fertilizer, offering a cost-effective solution for various industries such as agriculture, food and beverage, and wastewater treatment. The company's technology allows for fast fermentation times of 22-26 days, producing high-quality biomethane with up to 70% methane content.
Partnerships and Projects
Recently, FimusKraft has been developing a container-based biogas plant, with the first installation set to take place in Lahti, Finland. This project highlights the company's focus on modular and efficient solutions for distributed power generation and wastewater treatment. Additionally, FimusKraft's technology can be integrated into existing biogas plants to upgrade them with its advanced bio-fermentation process.
Awards and Recognition
FimusKraft has received the prestigious "Seal of Excellence" from the European Innovation Committee, acknowledging its innovative approach to biotechnology and circular economy. This recognition underscores the company's commitment to reducing carbon footprints and promoting sustainable energy solutions.
Press Releases and Updates
While specific recent press releases or blog posts are not detailed on FimusKraft's website, their updates often focus on technological advancements, partnerships, and project developments. The company's emphasis on continuous training and education ensures that its personnel remain competent and up-to-date in the industry.
Social Media and Website
FimusKraft maintains a professional website but does not seem to have an active blog section or detailed press releases listed. For the most current information, visitors would need to contact the company directly or look for updates in industry publications.
Sources
- News & Articles | FimusKraft
- FimusKraft | Electrifying Biowaste
- FimusKraft Bio-gas Plant (FKBP): Is bio-waste a cost or an income
- Low Carbon References Project
- FIMUSKRAFT FOR BUILDING COMMUNITY RESILIENCE
- How it works? - FimusKraft
- FimusKraft | Vesi.fi
- Company | FimusKraft
4 The Technology Advancements
FimusKraft: Current Capabilities and Advancements
FimusKraft, a Finnish cleantech start-up, specializes in bioenergy solutions, leveraging a revolutionary horizontal bio-fermentation process to convert biowaste into energy. Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding on October 6, 2021, the company has continued to develop its technology and expand its market presence.
Current Capabilities
FimusKraft's bioenergy plants are modular, scalable, and fully automated, allowing for efficient conversion of biowaste into electricity, heat, and organic fertilizer. This technology is designed to be cost-effective and highly efficient, catering to various sectors such as agriculture, food, and beverage industries, as well as wastewater treatment plants. The company's solution utilizes a patented horizontal bio-fermentation process that optimizes biogas production by ensuring consistent fermentation times for all particles, thereby maximizing energy output and reducing operational costs.
Advancements and Improvements
While specific advancements since the EIC funding are not detailed in the available information, FimusKraft's technology has been recognized for its innovation, earning the "Seal of Excellence" from the European Innovation Committee. The company's focus on modular and scalable solutions allows it to adapt to different customer needs, from small-scale operations to large industrial settings.
Market Demonstration and Customer Engagement
FimusKraft's technology has been demonstrated through field testing, which highlights its practical application and readiness for market deployment. However, specific details about ongoing pilot projects or customer demonstrations since the funding are not publicly available.
Patents and Scientific Publications
FimusKraft has secured patents for its bio-fermentation technology, reflecting the company's commitment to innovation. There is no publicly available information on new scientific studies or whitepapers published by FimusKraft since receiving the EIC funding.
Sources:
Note: There is no direct information available regarding FimusKraft's specific advancements or publications post-EIC funding. The provided details are based on its general capabilities and technology.5 The Partnerships and Customers
FimusKraft: Partnerships and Market Positioning
FimusKraft, a Finnish cleantech company specializing in modular biogas plants, has established significant partnerships and customer relationships since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in October 2021. The company's innovative approach to converting biowaste into energy has attracted various stakeholders, including animal keepers, wastewater treatment plants, and entities from the food and beverage industry.
Partnerships and Customers
- LADEC (Lahti Region Development): FimusKraft collaborated with LADEC to establish a strong presence in Lahti, Finland, where the company's first container-based biogas plant was installed. This partnership facilitated premises acquisition and network building.
- SansOx: Although not a direct partnership with FimusKraft, SansOx, another company founded by Mikael Seppälä, shares a similar focus on water treatment technology. This connection underscores FimusKraft’s broader network within environmental solutions.
- Alien Technology Transfer: FimusKraft is listed as a client, indicating a potential strategic partnership or innovation support collaboration.
New Partners and Customers
As of the latest available information, specific new partners or customers are not detailed. However, FimusKraft’s technology and market approach are likely to attract more clients across various sectors, given its modular and scalable biogas solutions.
Nature of New Relationships
New relationships for FimusKraft are likely to be focused on expanding its biogas plant deployments across Finland and internationally. These partnerships will aim to leverage FimusKraft’s patented technology to enhance biowaste valorization and energy production.
Market Positioning
FimusKraft's innovative biogas plants position the company as a leader in the cleantech sector. By converting biowaste into bioenergy and organic fertilizers, FimusKraft contributes to sustainable practices and reduced carbon footprints. The company’s modular design allows for easy scaling and cost-effective operations, making it attractive to diverse biowaste producers.
Technology Advancements and Scaling
New relationships will enhance FimusKraft’s ability to advance its technology through collaborative research and development. Moreover, partnerships can facilitate the scaling of operations by providing access to broader markets and resources. FimusKraft’s goal to establish reference plants in Finland before expanding abroad suggests a strategic approach to growth.
Sources
- FimusKraft Biogas Plant to Lahti
- FimusKraft | Electrifying Biowaste
- FimusKraft Bioenergy Plant
- Alien Technology Transfer - Clients
- Fimuskraft - Alien Technology Transfer
6 The Hiring and Company Growth
FimusKraft: Team Growth and Development
FimusKraft, a Finnish cleantech company, received EIC Accelerator funding in October 2021. Since then, the company has been actively growing its team and operations.
Current Team Size and Headcount
The current team size and headcount of FimusKraft are not explicitly disclosed in available sources. However, the company is actively expanding its team and is open to new hires, as indicated by their careers page.Hiring and Team Growth
FimusKraft is currently hiring, with positions available as listed on their careers page. The company seeks passionate individuals to join their team in handling biowaste in environmental processes, aiming to reduce carbon footprints and accelerate growth.Recent Hires and Key Positions
Information on specific recent hires or key positions is not readily available. However, the company's focus on innovative biotechnology and circular economy suggests that new team members will be crucial in enhancing their bioenergy production capabilities and expanding their market presence.Impact of New Team Members on Company Growth
New team members will play a vital role in helping FimusKraft scale and grow. By expanding their team, the company can enhance its ability to develop and implement its modular bioenergy systems more effectively. This growth will enable FimusKraft to meet increasing demands for sustainable energy solutions and expand its presence in both domestic and international markets.Changes in Management or Founding Team
There is no information available regarding major changes in FimusKraft's management or founding team since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding.Company Growth and Development
FimusKraft's growth and development have been supported by its innovative approach to biowaste management and bioenergy production. The company's modular systems allow for efficient and cost-effective conversion of biowaste into energy, heat, and organic fertilizer, which are key factors in its rapid growth and scalability.Sources
- FimusKraft | Electrifying Biowaste
- Fimuskraft company information, funding & investors | Helsinki
- Contact us | FimusKraft
- Careers | FimusKraft
- FimusKraft | Vesi.fi
7 The Media Features and Publications
FimusKraft: Media Coverage, Publications, and Event Participation Finnish cleantech innovator FimusKraft has garnered recognition for its modular bioenergy technology following its European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator win. While direct media interviews or podcasts featuring the team are not publicly documented in available sources, the company’s activities and achievements are highlighted in several key areas:Publications and Reports
- JRC Technical Report: The European Commission’s Joint Research Centre referenced FimusKraft’s horizontal bio-fermentation process in a 2020 report, emphasizing its enzyme-driven optimization of methane production.
- HarvRESt Project Analysis: A 2024 EU-funded report on renewable energy integration in agriculture included methodologies relevant to FimusKraft’s biowaste-to-energy solutions, though not explicitly naming the company.
Awards and Recognition
- EIC Seal of Excellence: Awarded for innovations in biogas production and circular economy practices.
- Horizon Grant: Recognized by the EU Horizon program for advancing bioenergy technologies.
Conferences and Events
While specific presentations at conferences like Lebanon Sustainability Week (2020) are documented in search results, explicit mentions of FimusKraft’s participation remain unclear. However, their scalable container-based systems align with themes discussed at EU-level events focused on renewable energy integration ([HarvRESt], [SETIS]).Sources
- FimusKraft Official Website | News & Articles
- JRC Publications Repository Report (2020)
- HarvRESt Project Report on RES Integration (2024) | RAWMEC Lebanon Conference Details
Do you need EIC Accelerator support?
Here is a list of the key service options for the EIC Accelerator:
Full Writing Service
All proposal sections are written by Stephan Segler, PhD.
Advisory Service
You write in-house but receive 1-on-1 support, templates, instructions, and reviews of all documents.
AI Writer & Training
A high-quality AI writer for EIC Accelerator Step 1 and a comprehensive Training program for Steps 1 and 2 including all templates and instructions.