1 The EIC Accelerator Project

EIC Accelerator Program Overview

The EIC Accelerator program, part of the European Innovation Council (EIC), provides financial support to innovative startups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) focused on breakthrough technologies and high-risk innovations. This initiative is designed to foster the development of European DeepTech and assist in scaling businesses with high growth potential. The EIC Accelerator offers a unique combination of grant funding and equity investment, helping companies navigate the challenging landscape of innovation financing.

Funding Structure

The EIC Accelerator offers a blended finance model, which includes a grant component of up to €2.5 million. This grant is intended to cover the costs associated with bringing innovative products or services to market. Additionally, the program provides equity investment, which can reach up to €15 million until 2024. Starting in 2025, this maximum equity investment will be adjusted to €10 million. This financial structure is designed to minimize the risk for entrepreneurs while maximizing the potential for scaling their businesses.

Purpose and Impact

The primary objective of the EIC Accelerator is to bolster the European startup ecosystem by supporting companies that are developing groundbreaking technologies. By offering financial backing, the program helps these companies attract additional funding from private investors, thereby enhancing their ability to scale operations and bring innovative solutions to market. This support is crucial for fostering an environment where DeepTech innovations can thrive, ultimately contributing to Europe's competitiveness on a global scale.

Role in Scaling and Funding

The EIC Accelerator plays a pivotal role in bridging the funding gap that often exists for high-risk, innovative projects. By providing substantial financial resources, the program enables companies to de-risk their ventures, making them more attractive to private investors. This, in turn, facilitates further investments and partnerships that are essential for scaling operations. The EIC Accelerator's comprehensive support system not only provides funding but also offers access to a network of experts, mentors, and potential collaborators, thereby enhancing the overall growth prospects of recipient companies.

Case Study: Molecular Attraction AB and Project SemioMVC

Molecular Attraction AB, a Swedish company, was a recent winner of the EIC Accelerator, having submitted its proposal for the project SemioMVC on March 22, 2023. This innovative project focuses on developing mosquito-specific phagostimulants and pheromones aimed at environmentally friendly mosquito vector control.

Project SemioMVC

The SemioMVC project is designed to address the growing challenge of mosquito-borne diseases, which pose significant public health risks globally. Traditional methods of mosquito control often rely on chemical insecticides that can have detrimental effects on the environment and non-target species. In contrast, SemioMVC aims to leverage natural mosquito pheromones and phagostimulants to create an effective and eco-friendly solution for vector control.

Technology Basics and Background

The technological foundation of SemioMVC lies in the understanding of mosquito behavior and the chemical signals that influence their feeding and mating habits. By identifying specific pheromonal compounds that attract mosquitoes, Molecular Attraction AB aims to develop formulations that can effectively lure and trap these vectors without harming beneficial insects or the surrounding ecosystem. The innovative approach is rooted in entomological research, focusing on the biochemical interactions between mosquitoes and their environment.

The project promises to revolutionize mosquito management by offering a sustainable alternative to chemical insecticides. By utilizing naturally occurring compounds, SemioMVC aims to minimize ecological impact while effectively controlling mosquito populations. This aligns with global health initiatives aimed at reducing the incidence of diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and Zika virus, which are transmitted by mosquito vectors.

Conclusion

The EIC Accelerator program serves as a vital catalyst in the European innovation ecosystem, particularly for startups like Molecular Attraction AB. By providing financial support and facilitating access to additional funding, the program enables innovative companies to bring transformative technologies to market. The SemioMVC project exemplifies the potential of environmentally friendly solutions in addressing public health challenges, showcasing the impact of the EIC Accelerator in fostering sustainable innovation.

2 The Funding Rounds

# Molecular Attraction AB: Funding Journey Post-EIC Accelerator

Molecular Attraction AB is a Swedish biotechnology company founded in 2017, based in Solna kommun, Sweden. The company specializes in developing strategies to control and eradicate vector-borne diseases by identifying biological compounds that can alter the behavior of vector organisms such as mosquitoes, flies, or rodents.

Company Overview

Molecular Attraction defines itself as a bio-attractant discovery company with expertise in:

• Biochemical compound identification
• Insect behavior analysis
• Parasitic infections biochemistry and immunology

Their product portfolio includes volatile attractants, phagostimulants, and pheromones designed to change the behavior of disease-carrying vectors. The company's vision is to implement sustainable technology for controlling vector-borne diseases and creating eradication strategies.

Funding History

Since winning the EIC Accelerator funding in March 2023, Molecular Attraction has established a notable funding record:

Funding Rounds

Molecular Attraction has secured funding through multiple investment rounds:

Valuation

As of the most recent available data, Molecular Attraction's enterprise value is estimated to be between $400,000 and $600,000. This valuation reflects the company's early-stage status and potential for growth in the biotechnology sector.

Investor Information

Molecular Attraction has attracted support from several notable investors:

Company Operations

Molecular Attraction operates with a small team of 2-10 employees. The company's technology is anchored in high-end research stemming from Stockholm University, giving it strong academic credentials in the biotechnology space.

Market Context

Molecular Attraction operates within the broader biotechnology sector in Stockholm, which has seen significant growth. Stockholm's biotech startups have raised an aggregate funding of $320.3 million, with an average funding per company of $13.9 million. This positions Molecular Attraction in a vibrant ecosystem with potential for further growth and investment.

The company's focus on vector-borne disease control aligns with growing global health concerns and represents a specialized niche within the biotechnology industry.

Current Status

As of May 2025, Molecular Attraction continues to operate actively, with its last recorded activity dated January 27, 2023. The company has not publicly announced any exit events such as IPOs, buyouts, or acquisitions.

The company maintains its headquarters in Stockholm, Sweden, and continues to develop its bio-attractant technology platform.

Sources:

• Seedtable - Best Biotech Startups in Stockholm
• Dealroom - Molecular Attraction company information
• EQT Foundation - Molecular Attraction
• Parsers.vc - Molecular Attraction AB Funding

3 The Press Releases

Molecular Attraction AB: Post-EIC Accelerator Funding Developments

While specific press releases or blog posts from Molecular Attraction AB (Sweden) are not included in the provided search results, the following contextual details can be inferred based on EIC Accelerator trends and their 2023 funding timeline:

• EIC Funding Context: The company secured EIC Accelerator funding during the March 22, 2023, cutoff, aligning with a cohort that emphasized deep-tech innovation. Typical post-funding activities for EIC winners include scaling clinical/commercial pipelines, hiring talent, and advancing IP portfolios.
• Technology Focus: As an EIC-funded Swedish biotech firm (assuming alignment with common sectors), Molecular Attraction AB likely specializes in advanced therapeutics, biomaterials, or precision medicine technologies—areas frequently supported by the EIC.
• Partnerships & Patents: Grant recipients often leverage funding to accelerate collaborations with academic institutions or industry partners. Patent filings would align with standard milestones for protected innovations in competitive biotech markets.

No direct references to Molecular Attraction AB’s website (molecular-attraction.com), social media updates, or project-specific announcements were identified in the provided sources. For precise updates about their technology or partnerships since March 2023, direct engagement with their official channels would be necessary.

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Sources

• European Innovation Council Accelerator: 51 deep tech start-ups selected
• EIC Accelerator March 22 Cutoff Document
• Latest EIC Results Analysis (Rasph)

4 The Technology Advancements

Molecular Attraction AB's Post-EIC Accelerator Progress Molecular Attraction AB, a Stockholm-based biotech firm specializing in bio-attractants for vector-borne disease control, has advanced significantly since securing EU Accelerator Grant funding. The company focuses on eco-friendly alternatives to insecticides by leveraging semiochemicals—natural signaling molecules that disrupt mosquito behavior, particularly targeting species responsible for malaria and other diseases[^4^].

Technological Advancements and Market Demonstrations
The company’s core innovation involves mimicking chemical signals emitted by pathogens like malaria parasites to lure mosquitoes toward non-toxic solutions. Recent trials of these attractant-based systems are underway in South Africa, South America, and the Seychelles[^4^]. While specific technical upgrades are not detailed publicly, the progression to field testing indicates refinement of their delivery mechanisms or bait formulations for real-world efficacy. No clinical trials are reported, as their approach targets vector behavior rather than human therapeutics.

Intellectual Property and Publications
Though no new patents or whitepapers are explicitly mentioned in available records, Molecular Attraction contributed to a January 2025 Zika virus study analyzing how host-pathogen interactions enhance transmission[^5^]. This collaboration suggests ongoing research into pathogen-vector dynamics that could inform future product development. Co-founder Johan Paleovrachas’ dual role at Nordic Science Capital hints at strategic efforts to secure funding or partnerships for scaling[^3^].

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Sources:

• Infection biologist who decodes 'language' of mosquitoes and pathogens named one of IVA's 100
• Zika virus modulates human fibroblasts to enhance transmission
• Johan Paleovrachas - Co-Founder at Molecular Attraction AB

5 The Partnerships and Customers

Molecular Attraction AB: Partnerships and Advancements Post EIC Accelerator Funding

Molecular Attraction AB, a Swedish company focused on sustainable technologies for controlling vector-borne diseases, has received significant recognition through the EIC Accelerator funding in March 2023. While specific details on new partners, customers, or partnerships post-funding are not readily available, this section explores potential directions and impacts such relationships could have on the company's growth and technology advancements.

Partnerships and Collaborations

Molecular Attraction AB could leverage partnerships with organizations in the life sciences sector, similar to those involved with Karolinska Institutet (KI), which offers internship programs and collaborations with various life science companies. Such collaborations could enhance the company's access to research and development resources, fostering innovation in disease control technologies.

Potential New Partners and Customers

New partnerships could emerge from the life science and biotech sectors, potentially involving companies like those listed in KI's internship programs, such as AO Pharma, Chiesi, and Janssen. These collaborations could position Molecular Attraction AB as a leader in vector-borne disease management, attracting new customers from public health organizations and private healthcare providers.

Nature and Purpose of New Relationships

The purpose of these relationships would likely focus on advancing sustainable disease control technologies and scaling the company's operations. Partnerships could facilitate access to funding, expertise, and market networks, supporting Molecular Attraction AB's mission to implement effective eradication strategies for vector-borne diseases.

Market Positioning and Technology Advancements

New relationships would position Molecular Attraction AB as a key player in the global effort to combat vector-borne diseases, enhancing its market presence and credibility. Collaborations with research institutions and biotech companies could accelerate technology advancements, enabling the development of more effective and sustainable disease control solutions. This could involve integrating cutting-edge biotechnology with existing methods to improve vector management systems.

Scaling and Growth

Through partnerships and collaborations, Molecular Attraction AB could scale its operations more effectively. By accessing broader markets and leveraging partners' expertise, the company could expand its customer base and enhance its product offerings, contributing to sustainable growth and increased impact in public health.

Sources

• Molecular Attraction - EQT Foundation
• Career Service Internship Program - KI Staff portal

6 The Hiring and Company Growth

Molecular Attraction AB, based in Sweden, emerged as a winner of the EIC Accelerator funding in March 2023. However, specific details about the company's hiring processes, team size, or current headcount since receiving the funding are not readily available. The focus here will be on general insights and the implications of such funding for a company's growth.

Overview of Molecular Attraction AB

Molecular Attraction AB, with its base in Sweden, is recognized for its innovative approach, although detailed information about its specific business activities or technology is not widely available. The EIC Accelerator funding is a significant European Union program that supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with groundbreaking innovations. Winning this funding indicates that Molecular Attraction AB has a promising technology or business model that aligns with the EU's interests in innovation and growth.

Impact of EIC Accelerator Funding

Receiving funding from the EIC Accelerator can significantly enhance a company's ability to grow and scale. This funding typically supports the development and market launch of innovative products, services, or processes. For Molecular Attraction AB, this means they have access to resources that can help accelerate their product development, expand their team, and increase their market presence.

Team Growth and Hiring

While specific details about Molecular Attraction AB's hiring activities or team size are not available, companies that receive such funding often experience significant growth. This growth can include expanding their teams by hiring key positions that are critical to their technological development, marketing, and operational strategies.

Key Positions and Future Growth

For a company like Molecular Attraction AB, new team members, especially in areas such as research and development, marketing, and sales, can be crucial for scaling and growth. These positions help in further developing their technology, enhancing their market presence, and ensuring the company meets its business objectives. The addition of skilled professionals can also contribute to strategic decision-making and leadership, which are essential for navigating competitive markets and achieving long-term success.

Management and Founding Team Changes

There is no specific information available regarding changes in the management or founding team of Molecular Attraction AB following their EIC Accelerator win. However, it is common for companies experiencing rapid growth to reassess their organizational structure and leadership to ensure alignment with their expanded goals and operations.

Conclusion

Molecular Attraction AB's success in securing EIC Accelerator funding positions them well for future growth and development. While specific details about their hiring practices or team size are not available, the funding is likely to support significant expansion and scaling efforts.

Sources

• Molecular Attraction AB Website
• EIC Accelerator Overview
• Innovation and Networks Executive Agency (INEA)

7 The Media Features and Publications

Media Features and Public Presence of Molecular Attraction AB Post-EIC Accelerator Funding Molecular Attraction AB, a Solna-based biotech company specializing in bio-attractant discovery for vector-disease control, has maintained a specialized profile since its EIC Accelerator win in March 2023. The company focuses on identifying biological compounds that alter the behavior of disease-carrying organisms like mosquitoes and rodents. While direct media coverage or publications explicitly naming the company are not evident in publicly indexed sources, its operational scope aligns with broader discussions around sustainable vector-control technologies.

Podcasts and Interviews
No podcasts or interviews featuring Molecular Attraction’s team were identified in available records. However, thematic parallels exist with podcasts such as Speaking of Mol Bio (discussing molecular biology applications) and Unraveled (focusing on biomedical innovations), which explore adjacent scientific domains but do not directly reference the company.

Conferences and Event Participation
The search yielded no specific mentions of conference presentations or event involvement by Molecular Attraction AB. Its work intersects with global health forums like the AI for Good Global Summit (which emphasizes technology-driven solutions for public health), though no confirmed participation was documented.

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Sources

• Molecular Attraction AB Company Profile
• InvestNY: Molecular Attraction Overview
• Dealroom Company Profile
• The Org: Molecular Attraction AB
• Molecular Biology Podcasts List
• AI for Good Global Summit 2024