1 The EIC Accelerator Project

The EIC Accelerator program is a pivotal component of the European Innovation Council's (EIC) efforts to support innovative startups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the potential for high growth. Designed to bolster the European DeepTech ecosystem, the program aims to facilitate the scaling of groundbreaking technologies and the commercialization of innovative solutions. The EIC Accelerator provides a unique financial blend of grants and equity financing to alleviate some of the most significant barriers faced by emerging companies.

Funding Structure of the EIC Accelerator

The EIC Accelerator offers a combination of grant funding and equity investment, catering to the diverse needs of innovative enterprises. Under this program, eligible companies can receive a grant of up to €2.5 million, which can be used for research and development activities, prototype development, and market entry strategies. This non-repayable grant is particularly beneficial in the early stages of product development, allowing companies to validate their concepts without the immediate pressure of financial returns.

In addition to grants, the EIC Accelerator provides equity financing, which has evolved over time. Until 2024, companies can secure equity investments of up to €15 million, enabling them to scale operations and enhance their competitive edge. Starting in 2025, this equity cap will be adjusted to a maximum of €10 million. This dual funding mechanism not only mitigates financial risks for startups but also attracts additional private sector investment, as the EIC's involvement often signals a higher level of validation and support for a project.

Purpose of the EIC Accelerator

The overarching goal of the EIC Accelerator is to foster innovation in Europe by empowering startups and SMEs to bring novel technologies to market. By supporting companies in the DeepTech sector, the program contributes to Europe's strategic autonomy and competitiveness on a global scale. The EIC Accelerator aims to bridge the funding gap that many innovative companies face, especially in their nascent stages. By enabling access to significant financial resources, the program enhances the ability of companies to attract further private sector investment, thus creating a robust ecosystem for innovation.

Role in Scaling and Private Sector Funding

The EIC Accelerator plays a critical role in helping companies scale by providing not only financial resources but also strategic guidance and mentorship. This support is paramount for startups looking to transition from the development phase to full market entry. The program also encourages collaboration and networking within the European innovation landscape, facilitating partnerships that can enhance the scalability of projects. The endorsement from the EIC often serves as a catalyst for attracting additional investments from private investors, venture capitalists, and other funding entities, thereby amplifying the financial backing available to promising startups.

iOnctura BV and the CURE-PDAC Project

Company Overview

iOnctura BV is a Netherlands-based biotechnology company that focuses on developing innovative therapies for cancer treatment. The company has gained recognition for its cutting-edge research in the field of oncology, particularly in the development of new drugs that target solid tumors.

Project Overview: CURE-PDAC

The EIC Accelerator project, CURE-PDAC, aims to address a critical need in the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), one of the most aggressive forms of cancer. The CURE-PDAC project seeks to develop a novel therapeutic approach that enhances the efficacy of existing treatments while minimizing adverse effects on patients.

Technology Basics and Background

The technology underpinning CURE-PDAC is based on a targeted drug delivery system that utilizes nanotechnology to improve the specificity and effectiveness of anticancer agents. Traditional therapies for PDAC often suffer from poor patient outcomes due to the tumor's ability to resist treatment and its aggressive nature. By employing advanced drug delivery mechanisms, CURE-PDAC aims to increase the concentration of therapeutic agents directly at the tumor site, thereby improving treatment efficacy while reducing systemic toxicity.

The scientific foundation of CURE-PDAC leverages the latest advancements in molecular biology and nanotechnology, offering a promising solution to one of the most challenging areas in oncology. The project not only represents a significant step forward in cancer treatment but also exemplifies the potential of innovative biotechnology companies like iOnctura to transform healthcare through targeted and effective therapies.

The successful funding through the EIC Accelerator will enable iOnctura to advance the CURE-PDAC project into clinical trials, ultimately paving the way for new treatment options that could significantly improve patient outcomes in the fight against pancreatic cancer.

2 The Funding Rounds

# iOnctura BV: Growth Journey and Funding History

iOnctura BV is a Netherlands-based clinical-stage biotech company developing novel cancer therapies. The company has built a strong portfolio focused on selective cancer therapies targeting critical roles in multiple tumor survival pathways, including cellular proliferation, immune detection escape, and drug resistance.

EIC Accelerator Funding

In December 2022, iOnctura was awarded €17.5 million from the European Investment Council's (EIC) Accelerator Program. This significant funding package consisted of:

• A €2.5 million grant
• €15 million in equity investment

The funding was designated to support the clinical development of IOA-289, a first-in-class autotaxin inhibitor for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. iOnctura received the maximum allowed funding amount, highlighting the significant potential of their innovative treatment approach.

This award came as part of the October 5, 2022 cut-off of the EIC Accelerator program, which was highly competitive with 1,092 applications submitted. Only 78 companies (7.14%) were selected for funding, with iOnctura being among the successful applicants receiving blended finance (combined grant and equity).

Complete Funding History

Since its founding in 2017, iOnctura has successfully raised over €100 million in private financing to advance its pipeline of precision oral small molecules. The company's funding journey includes:

• 2017: Seed funding of €2.1 million at company foundation
• 2020: Series A round of €20.1 million
• 2022: €17.5 million from the EIC Accelerator Fund
• 2024: Series B round of €80 million

Clinical Development Progress

The EIC Accelerator funding has been instrumental in supporting iOnctura's clinical program for IOA-289. On December 8, 2022, the company announced that the first patient had been dosed in the Phase Ib clinical trial (AION-02 study, NCT05586516) of IOA-289 in metastatic pancreatic cancer.

This study is investigating IOA-289 in combination with standard-of-care gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel chemotherapy in first-line metastatic pancreatic cancer patients.

Key Therapeutic Programs

iOnctura has progressed two therapeutic candidates into mid-stage clinical development:

• Completed dose escalation and started expansion in uveal melanoma in 2021
• Received ILAP Passport from the UK MHRA in 2023
• Gained IND clearance in the US in 2023

• Completed healthy volunteer study in 2021
• Started Phase 1b study in pancreatic cancer in 2022
• Received Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) from US FDA for pancreatic cancer in 2024

Company Leadership

Catherine Pickering serves as the CEO and Co-Founder of iOnctura. With a PhD in Medicinal Chemistry from the UK's Institute of Cancer Research and an MBA from Henley Business School, Pickering has built iOnctura as a lean but highly efficient drug development company. Prior to founding iOnctura, she led the global oncology and immuno-oncology licensing and business development function at Merck KGaA.

Under her leadership, iOnctura has built a team of more than 15 members including research scientists, medical professionals, and business leaders, successfully advancing multiple programs into clinical development.

Market Impact and Potential

The funding from the EIC Accelerator was granted in recognition of IOA-289's potential to transform pancreatic cancer treatment. Pancreatic cancer represents a significant unmet medical need as it's the 3rd largest cause of death by cancer in the US and the 4th in Europe, with mortality rising in both sexes.

IOA-289's unique approach addresses three hallmarks of cancer simultaneously: fibrosis, immune suppression, and tumor cell proliferation, offering a novel therapeutic strategy for this difficult-to-treat cancer.

Sources: - iOnctura awarded EUR17.5 million funding from the EIC accelerator for clinical development of novel pancreatic cancer therapy

• iOnctura awarded EUR17.5 million funding from the EIC Accelerator for clinical development of novel pancreatic cancer therapy
• iOnctura Receives €17.5M Funding from the EIC Accelerator
• EIC Accelerator 5 October cut-off - European Innovation Council
• EIC Accelerator winners and statistics October 2022
• About - iOnctura

3 The Press Releases

Overview of iOnctura BV

iOnctura BV, a clinical-stage biotech company based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, specializes in developing novel cancer therapies. The company gained significant recognition by receiving EUR 17.5 million in funding from the European Innovation Council's (EIC) Accelerator Program in December 2022. This funding supports the clinical development of IOA-289, a first-in-class autotaxin inhibitor for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.

EIC Accelerator Funding and IOA-289

The EIC funding consists of a EUR 2.5 million grant and EUR 15 million in equity investment, aiming to advance iOnctura's clinical program for IOA-289. IOA-289 is designed to address three critical hallmarks of cancer: fibrosis, immune suppression, and tumor cell proliferation. The company initiated a Phase Ib clinical trial for IOA-289 in metastatic pancreatic cancer, marking a significant milestone in its clinical development pipeline.

Team and Leadership

iOnctura is led by CEO Catherine Pickering, who has been instrumental in driving the company's strategic growth and securing crucial funding. Other key team members include Lars van der Veen, Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer, and Michael Lahn, Chief Medical Officer. Elizabeth Holt serves as the Chief Business Officer, bringing extensive experience in strategic and operational roles within the life sciences sector.

Recent Developments

In June 2024, iOnctura announced an EUR 80 million Series B financing round, which will support further clinical trials for its cancer therapies, including roginolisib and cambritaxestat. Cambritaxestat, another autotaxin inhibitor, is being developed for highly fibrotic tumors, including metastatic pancreatic cancer. This financing round demonstrates the company's progress in advancing its pipeline of precision cancer treatments.

Press Releases and Updates

iOnctura regularly updates its website with news, including press releases about funding, clinical trials, and strategic partnerships. Recent updates highlight the company's Series B financing and ongoing clinical trials for its lead assets. The company's website provides insights into its research and development efforts, showcasing its commitment to innovative cancer therapies.

Conclusion

Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in October 2022, iOnctura has made significant strides in advancing its clinical programs, particularly for IOA-289. The company continues to expand its pipeline with innovative cancer therapies, marking it as a promising player in the biotech industry.

Sources:

• iOnctura Awarded EUR17.5 Million Funding from the EIC Accelerator for Clinical Development of Novel Pancreatic Cancer Therapy
• iOnctura Receives €17.5M Funding from the EIC Accelerator
• iOnctura Awarded EUR17.5 Million Funding From The EIC Accelerator For Clinical Development Of Novel Pancreatic Cancer Therapy
• About - iOnctura
• iOnctura announces €80m Series B financing to progress pipeline
• iOnctura raises nearly $86m in Series B to fund Phase II cancer trials

4 The Technology Advancements

iOnctura BV's Post-EIC Accelerator Progress: Advancing Oncology Innovations

Since receiving €17.5 million in EIC Accelerator funding in December 2022 to develop its autotaxin inhibitor IOA-289 (cambritaxestat) for pancreatic cancer, iOnctura has achieved significant milestones across clinical development, pipeline expansion, and corporate growth.

Clinical Advancements

• Phase Ib Trial for IOA-289: The company dosed the first patient in its Phase Ib AION-02 study (NCT05586516), evaluating IOA-289 combined with chemotherapy (gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel) in first-line metastatic pancreatic cancer.
• Orphan Drug Designation: The FDA granted Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) for cambritaxestat in metastatic pancreatic cancer, recognizing its potential to address fibrosis, immune suppression, and tumor proliferation.
• Roginolisib Expansion: Beyond IOA-289, iOnctura’s PI3Kδ inhibitor roginolisib (IOA-244) advanced into randomized Phase II trials for metastatic uveal melanoma (UM), non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and myelofibrosis. The OCULE-01 trial for UM aims to assess overall survival across 85 patients.

Technological and Pipeline Developments

iOnctura’s pipeline now includes three clinical-stage assets:

The company has emphasized novel combinations to overcome resistance mechanisms while maintaining low-toxicity profiles.

Corporate Growth and Funding

In June 2024, iOnctura secured an additional €86 million Series B financing led by Syncona to fund Phase II trials for roginolisib and cambritaxestat. This followed strategic collaborations with GSK to explore roginolisib’s efficacy in NSCLC.

Publications and Intellectual Property

While specific patent filings are not detailed publicly, iOnctura has released preclinical data on roginolisib’s mechanism of action in UM at conferences or publications referenced on their website. Clinical trial results from the DIONE-01 study highlighted prolonged survival benefits compared to historical controls.

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Sources
iOnctura Awarded EUR17.5 Million Funding From The EIC Accelerator
iOnctura Doses First Patient in Uveal Melanoma Phase II Trial
iOnctura CEO Reflections on 2024 Milestones
iOncturia Pipeline Overview
iOincturi News & Views Portal

5 The Partnerships and Customers

iOnctura BV’s Strategic Partnerships and Market Positioning Post-EIC Accelerator Funding

Since securing a €17.5 million EIC Accelerator grant in 2022[^history], iOnctura BV has expanded its investor base and clinical pipeline, positioning itself as a leader in precision oncology for neglected cancers. Key partnerships and developments include:

Investor Partnerships:

• Syncona: Led the €80 million Series B round (June 2024), bringing expertise in late-stage clinical development[^seriesb][^followon].
• EIC Fund: Joined Syncona as a new investor, reinforcing EU-backed innovation in hard-to-treat cancers[^seriesb].
• Existing Investors: M Ventures, Inkef Capital, VI Partners, Schroders Capital, and 3B Future Health Fund continued support across funding rounds[^seriesb][^followon].

Clinical Collaborations:
While specific customer names remain undisclosed due to trial confidentiality, iOnctura’s lead assets target collaborations with academic institutions and healthcare providers specializing in oncology:

• Roginolisib (IOA-244): Advancing Phase Ib trials for uveal melanoma (UM), with data showing sustained efficacy[^followon]. The UK MHRA granted an ILAP Passport (2023) to accelerate regulatory pathways[^history].
• Cambritaxestat (IOA-289): Ongoing Phase Ib study in metastatic pancreatic cancer focuses on fibrotic tumors overexpressing autotaxin[^seriesb][^followon].

Market Impact of New Relationships:
The Series B funding enables mid-to-late-stage trials for both assets. Syncona’s involvement enhances iOnctura’s capacity to refine clinical strategies across multiple cancer indications[^seriesb], while EIC Fund participation aligns with broader EU objectives to commercialize breakthrough therapies. These relationships provide financial stability for scaling operations and advancing technology through targeted patient stratification and combination therapy exploration.

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Sources

iOnctura expands pipeline and receives development grant | Follow-on investment announcement | Series B financing details

6 The Hiring and Company Growth

iOnctura BV: Growth and Development Since EIC Accelerator Funding

Introduction

iOnctura BV, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in the Netherlands, focuses on developing innovative treatments for neglected and hard-to-treat cancers. Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in October 2022, iOnctura has experienced significant growth and milestones in team expansion, strategic hires, and financial developments.

Hiring and Team Growth

iOnctura has strengthened its leadership team with key appointments, including Elizabeth Holt as Chief Business Officer and a new Board Chair, which indicates strategic growth in both business and governance aspects. However, specific details about the current headcount or team size are not publicly available.

The company is not explicitly mentioned to be currently hiring, but the recent leadership appointments suggest ongoing efforts to bolster its capabilities. The addition of key personnel like Elizabeth Holt, with her extensive experience in life sciences, signifies a focus on strategic development and fundraising.

Financial Growth

In June 2024, iOnctura secured an €80 million Series B financing round, which was led by Syncona and included participation from the EIC Fund and existing investors. This funding supports the advancement of its pipeline through Phase II trials, demonstrating substantial financial growth and investor confidence.

Key Positions and Management Changes

Recent key hires include Elizabeth Holt as the Chief Business Officer, bringing significant strategic and operational experience to the company. There are no major changes reported in the founding team, but the appointments of new leadership roles indicate strategic adjustments aimed at supporting the company's growth objectives.

Impact of New Team Members

The addition of experienced professionals like Elizabeth Holt and the continued leadership of Lars van Der Veen and Michael Lahn will be crucial in scaling the company. These hires are expected to help iOnctura navigate complex biopharmaceutical development processes, enhance business strategies, and secure future funding opportunities. The expertise brought by these new team members will be essential in advancing the company's pipeline of precision cancer treatments, particularly in areas like uveal melanoma and other neglected cancers.

Future Outlook

The growth and strategic appointments at iOnctura position the company for significant advancements in oncology research and treatment development. With its focus on innovative therapies for hard-to-treat cancers, iOnctura is poised to make a meaningful impact on patient outcomes. The recent funding and leadership additions will be pivotal in expanding its clinical trials and further establishing itself as a leader in precision cancer treatments.

Sources

• Home • iOnctura
• Reflections from our CEO - iOnctura
• Press releases - iOnctura
• €80 million Series B financing to progress pipeline through Phase II trials - iOnctura
• iOnctura announces EUR80 million Series B financing to progress pipeline through Phase II trials
• Osborne Clarke advises iOnctura on its EUR 80 Million Series B Financing

7 The Media Features and Publications

iOnctura BV: A Pioneer in Cancer Therapies

Overview

iOnctura BV, headquartered in Amsterdam with a subsidiary in Geneva, is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing innovative cancer treatments. Founded in 2017, it focuses on creating high-impact therapies with minimal disruption, emphasizing precision oral small molecules to combat neglected cancers. The company received significant funding, including an €80 million Series B financing in 2024, to advance its pipeline through Phase II trials.

Media Features and Publications

iOnctura has been featured in several publications for its innovative approach to cancer treatment:

• Endpoints News highlighted iOnctura's €80 million funding to advance treatments for rare eye cancer.
• FirstWord Pharma discussed the company's PI3K path with fresh funding.
• MedNous covered iOnctura's pursuit of drug resistance solutions.
• Drug Target Review featured the company as a leader in targeted cancer treatments.

Interviews and Podcasts

Catherine Pickering, CEO of iOnctura, has been interviewed by Scrip, discussing the company's business model and approach to cancer R&D. These interviews provide insights into iOnctura's strategic vision and pipeline development.

Conference and Fair Participations

While specific conference participations are not detailed, iOnctura is actively involved in scientific research collaborations, such as with Cancer Research UK, indicating a strong presence in oncology forums.

Events and Involvement

iOnctura was shortlisted for several prestigious awards in 2024, including the European Lifestars Awards and Scrip Awards, reflecting its growing reputation in the biotech sector. This recognition underscores the company's commitment to groundbreaking cancer therapies.

Conclusion

Since receiving EIC Accelerator funding in October 2022, iOnctura has made significant strides in advancing its cancer treatment pipeline. The company's innovative approach to targeting cancer mechanisms and its strong investor backing position it as a leader in the oncology sector.

Sources

• iOnctura
• About - iOnctura
• Our Pipeline - iOnctura
• Ionctura BV
• iOnctura announces EUR80 million Series B financing
• Reflections from our CEO - iOnctura
• IOnctura CEO On Pipeline Strategy And Funding Goals
• iOnctura - Products, Competitors, Financials, Employees
• News & views - iOnctura