1 The EIC Accelerator Project

Overview of the EIC Accelerator Program

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program is a key initiative designed to support innovative startups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Europe, particularly those engaged in deep tech and high-risk projects. The program aims to bridge the financing gap faced by early-stage companies, facilitating their development and scaling through a combination of grant funding and equity investments.

Funding Structure

The EIC Accelerator employs a blended finance approach, which includes two main types of funding:

Purpose in the European Deep Tech Ecosystem

The EIC Accelerator serves a vital role in the European deep tech and startup ecosystem by fostering innovation, enhancing competitiveness, and promoting sustainability. It targets disruptive technologies and groundbreaking solutions that can significantly impact industries and society. By providing both financial support and mentorship, the program accelerates the transition of innovative ideas from concept to market-ready solutions.

Facilitating Scaling and Private Sector Funding

The EIC Accelerator not only provides direct funding but also plays a crucial role in preparing companies to attract private sector investment. Through rigorous evaluation processes and expert guidance, it helps businesses refine their value propositions, develop robust business models, and establish credible go-to-market strategies. This preparation increases the likelihood of obtaining further financing from venture capitalists, private equity firms, and other investors, thereby enhancing the overall investment landscape in Europe.

Case Study: Sakowin SAS and the South Beach Project

Company Overview: Sakowin SAS, a French startup, has emerged as a winner of the EIC Accelerator program with its innovative project titled "South Beach." The project focuses on the CO2-free, on-demand, on-site production of low-cost green hydrogen utilizing microwave plasma technology.

Project Description: The South Beach project aims to revolutionize hydrogen production by harnessing microwave plasma, a method that promises to deliver clean hydrogen efficiently and sustainably. This production method is particularly significant given the increasing need for hydrogen as a clean energy carrier in various applications, including transportation, energy storage, and industrial processes.

Technology Background

Microwave Plasma Technology: The core technology behind the South Beach project revolves around the use of microwave plasma for hydrogen production. This innovative approach involves generating a high-energy plasma state using microwave radiation, which can efficiently dissociate water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen without generating carbon emissions.

The process operates at lower temperatures compared to traditional methods, such as steam methane reforming, which not only reduces energy consumption but also eliminates CO2 emissions associated with fossil fuel usage. The on-site and on-demand nature of the production system allows for localized hydrogen generation, minimizing transportation costs and enhancing supply chain flexibility.

Environmental Impact: The adoption of green hydrogen produced through microwave plasma could significantly contribute to decarbonizing various sectors, aligning with the European Union's climate goals. By providing a sustainable alternative to conventional hydrogen production methods, the South Beach project aligns with global efforts to transition towards greener energy solutions.

Conclusion

The EIC Accelerator program stands as a cornerstone of support for innovative companies like Sakowin SAS, facilitating their journey from concept to market. By offering a blend of grant funding and equity investment, the program empowers startups to scale their operations while attracting further private sector investment. The success of the South Beach project exemplifies the potential of advanced technologies in driving sustainable solutions within the energy sector. As the landscape of innovation continues to evolve, initiatives like the EIC Accelerator will be crucial in fostering the next generation of groundbreaking ideas and solutions in Europe.

2 The Funding Rounds

Financing Raised

Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022, Sakowin SAS has raised multiple rounds of financing, including grants, debt, seed investments, and a Series A round. Total reported funding amounts to approximately $10.1 million to $14.33 million (estimates vary by source), not including potential undisclosed or recently completed rounds.

Funding Rounds: Timing and Amount

Below is a structured overview of Sakowin's key funding rounds since 2022:

Date	Round/Type	Amount	Investor(s)/Notes
Mar 2022	Debt	€1.4m	Bpifrance
Mar 2022	Grant	€2.5m	European Innovation Council
Jun 2022	Debt	€600k	Bpifrance
Jun 2022	Grant	€600k	Bpifrance
Undated	Convertible	€1.0m	Not specified
Undated	Seed	€1.1m	Not specified
Undated	Series A	€4.0m	Not specified

</em>Some dates are not precisely listed in available sources but occurred after the EIC Accelerator win.

Recent minor accelerator-related fundings include:

• May 17, 2024: Incubator/Accelerator round for $30K
• Corporate Minority investment in January 2024 (amount undisclosed)

Investor Information

Key investors and grantors include: - European Innovation Council (EIC) — grant provider

• Bpifrance — multiple debt instruments and grants
• Other investors involved in convertible notes and Series A are not specifically disclosed in public databases.

Company Valuations

Sakowin’s company valuation has evolved as follows:

• January 2022: Valued at approximately $5.5 million.
• February 2024: Estimated enterprise valuation between $18–26 million according to Dealroom.co.

Exit Events

As of April 24, 2025:

There are no publicly reported exit events such as an IPO or acquisition/buyout involving Sakowin SAS.

Available information shows ongoing fundraising activity with no indication that the company has been acquired or gone public.

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Sources

• SAKOWIN company information, funding & investors – Impact Tech
• Sakowin Stock Price, Funding, Valuation – CB Insights
• SAKOWIN company information – French Tech
• SAKOWIN company information – South Moravia Ecosystem

3 The Press Releases

Sakowin SAS: A Pioneer in Decarbonized Hydrogen Production

Sakowin SAS, a French deeptech company, has been making strides in the energy sector since its founding in 2017. The company specializes in producing decarbonized hydrogen through methane plasmalysis, a process that offers significant environmental benefits by producing CO(_2)-free hydrogen and solid carbon.

Technology and Advancements

Sakowin's technology involves using plasma to decompose methane into hydrogen and solid carbon without emitting CO(_2). This process is notable for its energy efficiency, using five times less electricity than traditional electrolysis and not requiring water, a vital resource in the fight against climate change. The modular design allows for on-site, on-demand production, making it highly adaptable for various industrial applications.

The company's recent advancements include scaling up its plasma methane pyrolysis technology to deliver low-cost, low-carbon hydrogen for industries. Sakowin aims for an energy consumption of 10 to 15 kilowatt-hours per kilogram of hydrogen produced, with the goal of producing hydrogen for less than three euros per kilogram in Europe without subsidies.

Partnerships and Funding

Sakowin has secured notable funding and partnerships. In March 2022, it was awarded the Deeptech label by Bpifrance, receiving €2.5 million to support its R&D phases. Additionally, Sakowin was selected for the EIC Accelerator program, securing €6.5 million in funding through a combination of grants and investments.

The company has formed several industrial partnerships, including EMPA in Switzerland, Ponticelli Frères, the ADF Group, AES DANA, and Saint-Gobain. Sakowin aims to expand these partnerships to fifteen by 2025. The company has raised over €10 million to further develop its technology and achieve its energy transition goals.

Press Releases and Updates

Recent press releases highlight Sakowin's progress in industrializing its technology. The company is set to deliver its first industrial pilot to V-ZUG by the end of May 2025, marking a significant step in transitioning its technology from the lab to full-scale industrial production. Sakowin is also planning to build its first full-scale factory in southern France, targeting a production capacity of 600 machines per year by 2027.

Team and Leadership

Sakowin is led by CEO Gérard Gatt, who has been instrumental in driving the company's mission to contribute to Net Zero emission objectives through sustainable hydrogen production solutions. The company's leadership emphasizes the importance of energy efficiency, circularity, and sustainability in its operations and partnerships.

Conclusion

Since receiving EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022, Sakowin has made significant strides in advancing its technology, securing partnerships, and expanding its presence in the global energy transition landscape. Its commitment to decarbonized hydrogen production positions Sakowin as a leading player in the move towards sustainable energy solutions.

Sources

• Sakowin Launches Its Industrial Platform
• This French Startup Is Using Plasma to Create CO\(_2\)-free Hydrogen from Methane
• Sakowin: Home
• Sakowin SAS
• Interview with Sakowin
• Sakowin SAS
• Sakowin Green Energy

4 The Technology Advancements

Sakowin SAS Current Capabilities and Advancements

Sakowin SAS, a French deeptech company founded in 2017, specializes in producing decarbonized hydrogen through methane plasmalysis. Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding on March 23, 2022, the company has made significant advancements in its technology and market deployment.

Technology and Capabilities

Sakowin's technology uses microwave-excited plasma to decompose methane into hydrogen and solid carbon without oxygen, resulting in a CO2-free process. This method consumes five times less electricity than traditional electrolysis and does not require water, making it highly efficient and sustainable. The equipment is compact, modular, and stackable, allowing for on-site and on-demand hydrogen production, which can be easily integrated into existing industrial infrastructures.

Market and Demonstrations

The company has successfully demonstrated its technology with several industrial partnerships, including EMPA in Switzerland, Ponticelli Frères, the ADF Group, AES DANA, and Saint-Gobain. Recently, Sakowin launched its first industrial hydrogen pilot project in Switzerland, marking a crucial step in commercializing its technology. Plans are underway to install 10 to 15 industrial pilot units before releasing a standardized product by 2026.

Technological Improvements and New Features

Sakowin's technology has evolved significantly, with advancements in scalability and modularity. The process allows for rapid start-up and shutdown, making it compatible with intermittent renewable energy sources. The company aims to deliver a 100 kW industrial demonstrator by 2024 and a multimodular system capable of handling large volumes by 2026.

Patents and Scientific Studies

While specific details on new patents or scientific studies published since the EIC funding are not available, Sakowin has continued to develop and refine its patented plasmalysis technology. The company's focus remains on innovation and industrialization to achieve scalable and sustainable hydrogen production.

Future Plans

Sakowin is raising funds to build its first full-scale factory in southern France, targeting a production capacity of 600 machines per year by 2027. The company aims to expand its partnerships, reaching around 15 by 2025, and is exploring new markets, including Canada for mobility applications.

Sources

• Sakowin launches its industrial platform
• sakowin sas - Horizon-europe.gouv.fr
• Sakowin: Home
• Project information - Horizon-europe.gouv.fr
• South Beach (CO2-free, on-demand, on-site production of low-cost ...
• Sakowin Unveils Its First Industrial Pilot Project in Switzerland
• Press Kit_Q1 2024_EN - Sakowin
• Sakowin's Methane Plasmolysis: Clean Hydrogen Breakthrough
• Sakowin - Saint-Gobain NOVA

5 The Partnerships and Customers

Sakowin SAS: Partnerships, Customers, and Market Positioning

Background

Sakowin SAS, a French deeptech company, specializes in producing decarbonized hydrogen through methane plasmalysis. Since receiving EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022, Sakowin has been actively developing its technology and expanding its partnerships.

Partnerships

Sakowin has established several key partnerships to accelerate the development of its solution. The company has formed partnerships with EMPA in Switzerland, Ponticelli Frères, the ADF Group, AES DANA, and Saint-Gobain. These collaborations are aimed at integrating Sakowin's technology into various industrial applications, enhancing its market presence and scalability.

Customers and New Relationships

While specific new customers are not detailed, Sakowin's focus on industrial processes, oil and gas, mobility, and solid carbon usage indicates a broad customer base across these sectors. The company is positioned to capitalize on growing demand for sustainable hydrogen solutions, particularly in regions like Europe and the U.S., where decarbonization efforts are prominent.

Nature and Purpose of Relationships

The partnerships and customer relationships are strategic, designed to support Sakowin's mission of contributing to net-zero emissions through cost-competitive and sustainable hydrogen production. These alliances facilitate the integration of Sakowin's technology into existing industrial infrastructures, enabling on-site and on-demand hydrogen production.

Market Positioning

Sakowin's new relationships will enhance its market presence by:

• Scaling Technology: Partnerships will accelerate the deployment of Sakowin's plasmalysis technology across various industries, increasing its market share in the green hydrogen sector.
• Regulatory Influence: Participation in initiatives like the EIC Scaling Club helps Sakowin influence regulatory frameworks that support sustainable energy technologies.
• Talent Acquisition: Recognition as a leading scale-up in the EIC community aids in attracting skilled talent, essential for technology advancements.

Technology Advancements and Scaling

Through these partnerships and customer acquisitions, Sakowin aims to:

• Refine Technology: Collaborations will support further development and optimization of plasmalysis, enhancing its efficiency and competitiveness compared to traditional electrolysis methods.
• Expand Infrastructure: Integrating Sakowin's modular equipment into existing industrial setups will expand the company's reach and capabilities, driving green hydrogen adoption across multiple sectors.

Conclusion

Sakowin SAS is leveraging its partnerships and customer base to strengthen its position in the sustainable hydrogen market. By advancing its technology and expanding its market reach, Sakowin is poised to contribute significantly to global decarbonization efforts.

Sources: - Sakowin: Home

• Legal notices - Sakowin
• SAKOWIN company information, funding & investors
• Sakowin SAS - European Commission
• Sakowin: Helping industries go net zero
• SAKOWIN company information, funding & investors
• sakowin sas - Horizon-europe.gouv.fr

6 The Hiring and Company Growth

Sakowin SAS: Overview and Team Growth

Sakowin SAS, a DeepTech startup based in France, has been actively contributing to the energy transition by developing innovative hydrogen production solutions. The company received funding from the EIC Accelerator in March 2022, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey.

Current Headcount and Team Size

As of the latest available information, Sakowin's team consists of over 30 professionals, including top-tier engineers, researchers, and specialists in their fields. This team is structured into three core departments: Technical, Sales, and Administrative/Finance.

Hiring and Team Growth

While specific details about current hiring processes are not available, the company's focus on innovation and decarbonization suggests ongoing efforts to expand its team to meet the demands of its ambitious mission. Sakowin's growth in team size reflects its commitment to developing transformative solutions in the energy sector.

Recent Key Positions and Growth

There are no specific details on recently filled key positions. However, the company's emphasis on technological excellence and operational efficiency indicates that new team members would play crucial roles in advancing its hydrogen production technology and scaling its operations.

Impact on Future Growth

New team members at Sakowin would contribute to the development and implementation of its patented plasmalysis technology, which offers a cost-effective and sustainable method for producing hydrogen. This technology uses less electricity than traditional electrolysis and does not require water, making it an attractive solution for industries seeking to reduce their carbon footprint. As Sakowin continues to grow, these additions will be vital in helping the company achieve its goal of contributing significantly to the global energy transition by 2050.

Major Changes in Management or Founding Team

There are no reported major changes in Sakowin's management or founding team since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding.

Conclusion

Sakowin SAS is poised for further growth as it continues to innovate and expand its operations in the hydrogen production sector. Its focus on sustainable energy solutions aligns with global efforts to achieve Net Zero emissions, positioning the company as a key player in the future of energy.

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Sources: - About us - Sakowin

Sakowin: Home

7 The Media Features and Publications

Sakowin SAS Overview

Sakowin SAS, a French deep tech startup, was founded in 2017 with the mission of contributing to the energy transition and decarbonization of human activities through innovative hydrogen production solutions. Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022, Sakowin has made significant strides in developing its patented methane plasmalysis technology. This process decomposes methane into hydrogen and solid carbon without CO₂ emissions, using 5 times less electricity than traditional electrolysis and no water.

Media Features and Publications

Sakowin SAS has been featured in various publications, primarily highlighting its innovative approach to hydrogen production. For instance, Hydrogen Today has covered Sakowin's progress, including the unveiling of its first industrial pilot project in Switzerland. This project marked a significant milestone in the company's journey towards scaling its technology.

Content from Publications

Publications often focus on Sakowin's unique technology and its potential to transform industrial processes by replacing natural gas with hydrogen at a competitive cost. The plasmalysis process is likened to a "carbon atom filter," allowing for CO₂-free hydrogen production.

Podcasts or Interviews

While specific podcasts or interviews involving Sakowin's team members are not widely available, the company's CEO, Gérard Gatt, has been quoted in various media outlets discussing the company's progress and future plans.

Conference and Fair Visits

Sakowin has participated in industry conferences, such as the Bio360 Expo, where it presented its microwave plasma technology for converting natural gas and biomethane into decarbonized hydrogen.

Involvement in Events

The company's participation in events like the Bio360 Expo reflects its engagement with the broader hydrogen industry. These platforms provide opportunities for Sakowin to showcase its technology and network with potential partners and clients.

Future Plans

Sakowin is set to deliver a 100kW industrial demonstrator in 2024, with plans for a commercial launch in 2025. By 2027, the company aims to establish a production plant in France, further solidifying its position in the hydrogen market.

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Sources: - Sakowin Presentation Q1 2024 Sakowin Presentation Q1 2024

• Sakowin Home Sakowin: Home
• Sakowin SAS Sakowin SAS - European Commission
• Hydrogen Production - H2Today Hydrogen Production
• Bio360 Expo Schedule Conferences 2022 - Bio360 2025