1 The EIC Accelerator Project

The EIC Accelerator Program: A Comprehensive Overview

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator is a pivotal funding mechanism designed to support innovative startups and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) across Europe. With a primary focus on deep technology and advanced innovation, the program aims to foster breakthrough innovations and enhance Europe’s competitiveness in the global marketplace. The EIC Accelerator provides a combination of grants and equity funding to ensure that high-potential companies can develop and scale their technologies efficiently.

Funding Structure of the EIC Accelerator

The EIC Accelerator offers two main types of funding: grants and equity investments.

Purpose of the EIC Accelerator in the European DeepTech Ecosystem

The EIC Accelerator plays a crucial role in enhancing the European DeepTech and startup ecosystem. It addresses the challenges that innovative companies face, such as access to capital, market entry barriers, and scaling hurdles. By providing financial support and fostering connections with private investors, the EIC Accelerator not only helps startups to bring their innovations to market but also strengthens Europe's position as a hub for technological advancements.

Role in Scaling and Funding

The EIC Accelerator is instrumental in helping companies scale by facilitating access to necessary funding. By blending grants and equity, the program mitigates financial risks, encouraging private investors to co-finance projects alongside the EIC. This collaborative approach ensures that startups have the resources needed for research, development, and commercialization, thus accelerating their path to market.

Case Study: ROKA FURADADA SL and the SMART UV Project

Company Overview: ROKA FURADADA SL, based in Spain, is an innovative startup recognized as an EIC Accelerator winner for their project titled SMART UV.

Project Description: The SMART UV project focuses on the development of Smart Ultraviolet Radiation Filters. This technology aims to provide effective and efficient solutions for managing ultraviolet radiation exposure, which is crucial in various sectors including healthcare, agriculture, and environmental monitoring.

Funding Type: Under the EIC Accelerator, ROKA FURADADA SL secured a grant to facilitate the advancement of their SMART UV technology. The funding will support the company in refining its product and scaling its market reach.

Submission Timeline: ROKA FURADADA SL submitted their Step 2 proposal on June 16, 2021, and successfully navigated the competitive Step 3 interview process to win the funding.

Technology Basics and Background

The SMART UV technology offers innovative solutions for filtering and managing ultraviolet radiation. Ultraviolet radiation has various applications, from sterilization in medical environments to enhancing plant growth in agriculture. However, excessive exposure can be harmful to both human health and the environment.

The SMART UV filters are designed to selectively manage UV exposure by blocking harmful wavelengths while allowing beneficial light to pass through. This dual capability not only ensures safety but also optimizes applications in sectors where UV light plays a crucial role. The technology is grounded in advanced materials science, incorporating photonic structures that can adapt to varying environmental conditions.

By developing these smart filters, ROKA FURADADA SL addresses significant challenges associated with UV radiation, positioning itself at the forefront of a critical area of innovation. The support from the EIC Accelerator not only enhances the company’s credibility but also provides the necessary resources to bring this groundbreaking technology to market, thereby contributing to the broader goals of sustainability and public health.

In summary, the EIC Accelerator serves as a vital instrument in catalyzing innovation within Europe, exemplified by the achievements of ROKA FURADADA SL and their SMART UV project, which stands to make a significant impact across multiple industries.

2 The Funding Rounds

Roka Furadada S.L., a Barcelona-based biotechnology startup founded in 2019 by Judit Camargo, specializes in developing active ingredients and medical devices aimed at reducing the incidence of skin cancer and other skin diseases related to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. (eu-startups.com)

Funding History:

Since receiving the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021, Roka Furadada has secured additional funding through various rounds:

• April 14, 2021: The company completed a Series A financing round, raising €1.5 million (approximately $1.8 million). This round was led by the Spanish investment group O Financial Club and included participation from Klinea Ingeniería Farmacéutica, the angel network "Women Angels for Steam," and existing partners such as Menadiona. The funds were allocated to accelerate the registration process of new molecules in different markets, expand the research team, boost sales activities, and continue developing environmentally friendly products that protect the skin from UV radiation. (nordic9.com)
• December 18, 2019: Roka Furadada secured an angel investment of $177,000, marking the company's initial funding round. (pitchbook.com)

Investor Information:

The investors involved in Roka Furadada's funding rounds include:

• O Financial Club: A Spanish investment group that led the Series A financing round in April 2021. (nordic9.com)
• Klinea Ingeniería Farmacéutica: Acted as a technological partner in the Series A round. (nordic9.com)
• Women Angels for Steam: An angel network supporting female entrepreneurs in the STEAM sectors, participated in the Series A round. (nordic9.com)
• Menadiona: An existing partner that participated in the Series A round. (nordic9.com)

Company Valuations and Exit Events:

As of the latest available data, Roka Furadada has not publicly disclosed specific valuations for its funding rounds or any exit events. The company remains privately held, and detailed financial metrics such as valuations are not readily accessible in public sources.

Additional Information:

Roka Furadada's mission is to reduce the incidence of skin cancer through the research, development, and production of active ingredients and medical devices with high efficiency and low toxicological and environmental impact. The company has developed patented solar filters that are environmentally friendly and have no side effects on humans. Their business model is B2B, targeting sun cream manufacturers and solar filter producers and distributors. (nordic9.com)

For more detailed information, you can visit Roka Furadada's official website at rokafuradada.com.

3 The Press Releases

Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021, Roka Furadada SL, a Barcelona-based startup specializing in innovative sun protection solutions, has made significant strides in both technological advancements and community engagement.

Technological Advancements and Product Launches

In the first half of 2024, Roka Furadada celebrated the market introduction of several sun protection products incorporating their patented ROKA Smart UV® technology. This technology offers adaptive photoprotection by activating in response to solar radiation, providing tailored protection when most needed. Notably, the ROKA Smart UV® PvB 360 ingredient extends UVA protection, mitigating photoaging and pigmentation issues. Products featuring this technology were launched by brands such as SeventyOne Percent, Valetudo's Histomer, and Salerm, marking a significant milestone in Roka Furadada's commercialization efforts. (industriacosmetica.net)

Community Engagement and Social Responsibility

Demonstrating a strong commitment to social responsibility, Roka Furadada donated a batch of their SPF 30 sunscreen containing ROKA Smart UV® technology to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients at Hospital del Mar in Barcelona. This initiative supports therapeutic outings to the sea, part of the hospital's ICU humanization program, ensuring patients can enjoy sun exposure safely. The donation was personally overseen by CEO Judit Camargo and Scientific Project Manager Judit Bigas, highlighting the company's dedication to community welfare. (industriacosmetica.net)

Financial Milestones

In April 2021, prior to the EIC Accelerator funding, Roka Furadada secured €1.5 million in a Series A financing round led by O Financial Club. This funding aimed to accelerate the registration of new molecules across various markets, expand the research team, and advance the development of environmentally friendly products. The investment also included participation from Klinea Ingeniería Farmacéutica as a technological partner and the "Women Angels for Steam" network, supporting female entrepreneurs in STEAM sectors. (nordic9.com)

Patents and Intellectual Property

Roka Furadada holds a portfolio of 20 patents, reflecting its commitment to innovation in the field of sun protection. These patents encompass the development of SMART UV filters, which adapt to ambient UV radiation levels, offering enhanced protection against skin conditions caused by UV exposure. The company's focus on non-toxic and environmentally friendly solutions aligns with growing consumer and regulatory demands for sustainable products. (discovery.patsnap.com)

Company Overview

Founded in 2019, Roka Furadada is a deep-tech startup dedicated to reducing the incidence of skin cancer and other skin diseases related to UV radiation. The company specializes in the research, development, production, and sale of highly efficient active ingredients with low toxicological and environmental impact. Their flagship product, ROKA Smart UV®, represents a new generation of UV filters that adapt to varying levels of UV radiation, providing personalized protection. (startupshub.catalonia.com)

Through strategic partnerships, technological innovations, and a strong commitment to social responsibility, Roka Furadada continues to advance in the field of sun protection, contributing to both public health and environmental sustainability.

4 The Technology Advancements

Roka Furadada SL, a Spanish deep-tech startup founded in 2019, specializes in developing innovative solar active ingredients aimed at preventing skin diseases associated with ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The company has made significant advancements since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021.

Current Capabilities and Technological Advancements

Roka Furadada has developed a proprietary technology known as ROKA Smart UV®, which involves photochemical precursors that absorb UV radiation and transform into protective molecules. This technology offers tailored photoprotection by adapting to the intensity of solar radiation, providing long-lasting and dose-dependent protection. The company has expanded its product line to include ROKA Smart UV® ITM 330, an encapsulated UV absorber that enhances stability and minimizes skin interaction, and ROKA Cirkle® Sotabosk, a bio-based ingredient derived from lignin, contributing to the circular economy. (pcb.ub.edu, pcb.ub.edu)

Market Demonstrations and Collaborations

Roka Furadada has actively demonstrated its technology in the market through strategic collaborations. In July 2024, the company began exporting its intelligent solar protection active ingredient to France, partnering with the French company SeventyOne Percent to launch a new line of sunscreen products. This expansion was supported by the Catalan Government's Agency for Business Competitiveness (ACCIÓ) and its Office of Trade and Investment in Paris. (govern.cat)

Intellectual Property and Publications

The company has secured three patent families covering 44 countries worldwide, protecting its ROKA Smart UV® technology and related innovations. Additionally, Roka Furadada has been recognized for its technological innovation, receiving the DeepTech Award for the most disruptive technological innovation in Spain and Portugal in 2022. (rokafuradada.com)

These developments underscore Roka Furadada's commitment to advancing solar protection technologies and its growing presence in the global market.

5 The Partnerships and Customers

Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021, Roka Furadada SL, a Barcelona-based startup specializing in innovative UV protection technologies, has established several strategic partnerships and expanded its customer base.

New Partnerships:

• LEHVOSS Italia S.r.l.: In August 2023, Roka Furadada announced a strategic partnership with LEHVOSS Italia S.r.l., aiming to introduce their ROKA Smart UV® technology to the Italian market. This collaboration is set to develop a new generation of cosmetic products offering on-demand and long-lasting photoprotection, leveraging Roka Furadada's patented dose-dependent progressive UV active ingredients.
• Klinea Ingeniería Farmacéutica: In April 2021, Roka Furadada secured a €1.5 million Series A financing round led by O Financial Club, with participation from Klinea Ingeniería Farmacéutica, which agreed to act as a technological partner. (capital-riesgo.es)
• Women Angels for Steam: The same financing round included the network of business angels "Women Angels for Steam," supporting female entrepreneurs in the STEAM sectors. (capital-riesgo.es)
• Menadiona: Menadiona, the project's industrial partner, also participated in the financing round, contributing to the development and commercialization of Roka Furadada's products. (capital-riesgo.es)

New Customers:

Specific details about new customers acquired since the EIC Accelerator funding are not publicly disclosed. However, Roka Furadada's business model is B2B, targeting sun cream manufacturers and solar filter producers and distributors. The partnerships with Klinea Ingeniería Farmacéutica and Menadiona suggest a focus on expanding their customer base within the pharmaceutical and industrial sectors. (capital-riesgo.es)

Nature and Purpose of New Relationships:

• LEHVOSS Italia S.r.l.: The partnership aims to introduce Roka Furadada's innovative UV protection technologies to the Italian market, facilitating the development of new cosmetic products with enhanced photoprotection.
• Klinea Ingeniería Farmacéutica: As a technological partner, Klinea is expected to collaborate on the research and development of new UV filters, leveraging their expertise to accelerate product innovation. (capital-riesgo.es)
• Women Angels for Steam: This network's involvement provides financial support and mentorship, particularly emphasizing the promotion of female entrepreneurship in the STEAM fields. (capital-riesgo.es)
• Menadiona: Serving as an industrial partner, Menadiona contributes to the scaling and commercialization of Roka Furadada's products, facilitating their integration into the market. (capital-riesgo.es)

Market Positioning:

These strategic partnerships position Roka Furadada to expand its market presence, particularly in Italy, and enhance its product offerings through technological advancements. Collaborations with established entities like Klinea Ingeniería Farmacéutica and Menadiona strengthen the company's credibility and operational capabilities, enabling it to better meet the needs of its B2B customers.

Technology Advancements and Scaling:

The partnership with Klinea Ingeniería Farmacéutica is expected to accelerate the development of new UV filters, enhancing Roka Furadada's technological portfolio. The collaboration with Menadiona facilitates the scaling of production and distribution, ensuring that Roka Furadada can meet increasing demand and expand its market reach. Additionally, the partnership with LEHVOSS Italia S.r.l. opens avenues for international expansion, allowing the company to introduce its innovative products to new markets.

These strategic collaborations collectively contribute to Roka Furadada's growth, technological innovation, and market expansion, reinforcing its position as a leader in the UV protection industry.

6 The Hiring and Company Growth

Roka Furadada SL, a Barcelona-based startup specializing in innovative sun protection solutions, has demonstrated significant growth and strategic development since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021. This funding, comprising a €1.8 million grant and €1.5 million in equity, has been pivotal in accelerating the company's expansion and technological advancements.

Current Team Size and Hiring Status

As of 2024, Roka Furadada employs approximately 26 individuals. (pitchbook.com) The company has been actively expanding its team to support its growth initiatives. In November 2022, Roka Furadada inaugurated a new laboratory at the Barcelona Science Park, focusing on formulating new applications for its products. (pcb.ub.edu) This expansion indicates a proactive approach to scaling operations and suggests ongoing recruitment efforts to bolster its workforce.

Growth and Key Hires

Since the EIC Accelerator funding, Roka Furadada has achieved several milestones:

• Product Development: The company introduced ROKA Smart UV® PvB 360, a photo-adaptive solar active ingredient designed to enhance UVA protection in sunscreens. (pcb.ub.edu)
• Strategic Partnerships: In August 2023, Roka Furadada formed a strategic partnership with LEHVOSS Italia S.r.l to introduce its ROKA Smart UV® technology to the Italian market, indicating a strategic move to expand its market presence.

While specific details about recent key hires are not publicly disclosed, the establishment of new laboratories and strategic partnerships imply the addition of professionals in research and development, business development, and regulatory affairs.

Impact of New Team Members

The expansion of Roka Furadada's team is instrumental in:

• Accelerating Product Innovation: New hires in R&D are crucial for advancing the company's product pipeline, ensuring the development of cutting-edge sun protection solutions.
• Expanding Market Reach: Business development professionals play a key role in forging partnerships and entering new markets, as evidenced by the collaboration with LEHVOSS Italia S.r.l.
• Ensuring Regulatory Compliance: Experts in regulatory affairs are essential for navigating the complex landscape of international markets, facilitating smoother product registrations and market entries.

Management and Founding Team

Dr. Judit Camargo, the founder and CEO of Roka Furadada, continues to lead the company. With over 20 years of experience in the chemical and pharmaceutical sectors, Dr. Camargo's leadership has been pivotal in driving the company's mission to reduce skin cancer incidence through innovative sun protection technologies. (pcb.ub.edu)

In summary, since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in June 2021, Roka Furadada SL has demonstrated substantial growth through strategic team expansion, product innovation, and market diversification. The company's proactive hiring and development initiatives position it well for continued success in the sun protection industry.

7 The Media Features and Publications

Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding on June 16, 2021, Roka Furadada SL, a Barcelona-based startup specializing in innovative solar filters for skincare, has garnered significant attention in various media outlets.

Media Features and Publications:

• Revista Beauty Prof: On July 24, 2023, the magazine featured Roka Furadada's launch of ROKA Cirkle® Sotabosk, the company's first biobased product with a 100% natural origin index, designed to protect the skin while contributing to the circular economy. (revistabeautyprof.com)
• Euroquity: The platform highlighted Roka Furadada's mission to prevent skin conditions caused by ultraviolet radiation, emphasizing their development of solar filters that adapt to ambient UV levels, offering tailored photoprotection. (euroquity.com)
• StartupBlink: This startup ecosystem database recognized Roka Furadada as a notable player in the Catalonia startup scene, ranking it 1,772nd in Spain and 20,648th in Western Europe. (catalonia.startupblink.com)

Content from Publications:

• Revista Beauty Prof: The article discusses Roka Furadada's commitment to sustainability and innovation in the cosmetic industry, detailing the features and benefits of their new biobased product. (revistabeautyprof.com)
• Euroquity: The profile provides an overview of Roka Furadada's technological advancements, particularly the ROKA Smart UV® technology, and its potential impact on the skincare market. (euroquity.com)
• StartupBlink: The entry offers insights into Roka Furadada's position within the broader Catalonia startup ecosystem, highlighting its focus on cleantech and its innovative approach to skincare solutions. (catalonia.startupblink.com)

Podcasts and Interviews:

As of April 18, 2025, there are no publicly available records of podcasts or interviews featuring Roka Furadada's team since June 16, 2021.

Conference and Fair Participation:

Information regarding Roka Furadada's participation in conferences, fairs, or presentations since June 16, 2021, is not readily available in the provided sources.

Event Involvement:

Details about Roka Furadada's involvement in events since June 16, 2021, are not specified in the available information.

For the most current updates on Roka Furadada's activities and media appearances, visiting their official website at rokafuradada.com is recommended.