1 The EIC Accelerator Project

EIC Accelerator Program Overview

The EIC Accelerator program, part of the European Innovation Council (EIC), aims to support innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups in Europe, particularly those operating in the DeepTech sector. This initiative is designed to propel high-risk, high-potential companies towards market readiness and scale, enhancing their capacity to innovate and compete on a global scale. The program provides a combination of grant funding and equity investment to help these companies bridge the gap between research and market launch.

Funding Details

The EIC Accelerator offers funding through two primary avenues: grants and equity investments.

Purpose in the European Ecosystem

The EIC Accelerator plays a vital role in the European DeepTech and startup ecosystem by fostering innovation and enhancing competitiveness. It provides the necessary financial support and guidance for startups to develop groundbreaking technologies that can address significant societal challenges. By bridging the funding gap between early-stage research and commercial viability, the EIC Accelerator helps de-risk investments for private investors, thus catalyzing additional funding and support from the venture capital community.

Role in Scaling Companies

The EIC Accelerator not only offers financial resources but also provides access to a network of strategic partners, mentors, and experts. This holistic approach empowers companies to refine their business models, enhance their technological capabilities, and ultimately scale their operations effectively. The program's emphasis on mentorship and strategic guidance ensures that participating companies are well-equipped to navigate market challenges and attract further investments.

Case Study: Seventh Sense and the 7Sense Project

Company Profile: Seventh Sense is an innovative Estonian startup focused on developing technologies that enhance the quality of life for individuals with visual impairments. The company’s project, known as 7Sense, aims to provide independent mobility solutions for the blind and visually impaired through wearable remote touch sensing technology.

Project Overview: The 7Sense project received funding from the EIC Accelerator through the grant-only pathway. The proposal was submitted on March 23, 2022, during the Step 2 phase, and the project later advanced through the Step 3 interview process, ultimately securing funding from the program.

Project Goals and Technology: The objective of the 7Sense project is to create a wearable device that enables users to navigate their environment independently and safely. The technology leverages advanced remote touch sensing capabilities, allowing users to receive tactile feedback about their surroundings. This innovative approach not only enhances mobility but also empowers individuals with visual impairments to engage more fully with their environment.

Technical Background: The core technology behind 7Sense involves a combination of sensors and haptic feedback mechanisms that translate environmental information into tactile signals. This technology enables users to perceive obstacles, changes in terrain, and other critical navigational cues without relying solely on auditory guidance. By providing real-time information through touch, the 7Sense device aims to create a more intuitive and user-friendly experience for individuals with visual impairments.

Through the EIC Accelerator funding, Seventh Sense is positioned to advance its technology, conduct user testing, and refine its product for market readiness. The project exemplifies the potential of DeepTech innovations to create significant societal impact, demonstrating how the EIC Accelerator can facilitate transformative solutions for pressing challenges in accessibility and mobility.

Conclusion

The EIC Accelerator program represents a crucial mechanism for fostering innovation within Europe’s DeepTech landscape. By providing grants and equity funding, along with strategic support, it enables startups like Seventh Sense to develop groundbreaking technologies that improve lives and promote independence. The 7Sense project stands as a testament to the power of innovation in addressing the needs of underserved communities, showcasing the potential of the EIC Accelerator to drive positive change and economic growth.

2 The Funding Rounds

Seventh Sense (7sense.ee): Financing and Funding Overview Since EIC Accelerator Win

Seventh Sense, based in Estonia, received EIC Accelerator funding following the March 23, 2022 cut-off. Since then, the company has pursued additional rounds of financing to fuel its development of telehaptic technology for the visually impaired.

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Financing Raised and Funding Rounds

EIC Accelerator Grant (2022):

Seventh Sense was selected as a winner in one of Europe's most competitive EIC Accelerator rounds, which included grant support up to €2.5 million and potential equity investment ranging from €0.5 million to €15 million per company. The precise amount allocated specifically to Seventh Sense is not listed publicly but falls within these framework figures.

Convertible Note Round (September 2023):

In September 2023, Seventh Sense raised $100K via a convertible note. This funding was part of an undisclosed round with verified status.

Other Grants:

The company also secured a grant from the Estonian Business and Innovation Agency amounting to €34,562.50 for business development activities.

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Timing and Amounts of Major Funding Rounds

Date	Type	Amount	Details/Terms
March-June 2022	EIC Accelerator Grant & Equity	Up to €2.5M grant + up to €15M equity	Awarded after March cut-off; exact breakdown not specified
September 2023	Convertible Note	$100K	Undisclosed round; verified status
Unknown	National Grant	€34,562.50	Estonian Business & Innovation Agency

</em>Total awarded per project can vary within this range across all winners.

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Investors

While individual investor names from private or angel rounds are not publicly disclosed in available sources since the EIC win:

• The primary institutional backer post-March 2022 is the European Innovation Council Fund via the European Commission's accelerator program.
• National innovation agencies (e.g., Estonian Business and Innovation Agency) have provided additional support.
• No major venture capital firms or strategic investors have been listed as leading recent funding rounds related directly to their core technology since their EIC selection.

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Company Valuation

Estimates place Seventh Sense’s valuation between $9.5 million and $18.2 million as referenced around their September 2023 convertible note round. These figures represent market benchmarks rather than official disclosed valuations by management or external auditors.

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Exit Events: IPOs, Buyouts, Acquisitions

As of April 24, 2025:

• There have been no public exit events such as an Initial Public Offering (IPO), acquisition by another firm, or management buyout reported for Seventh Sense.
• The company remains privately held with ongoing product development focused on accessibility solutions for visually impaired individuals using telehaptics technology.

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Summary Table: Key Recent Funding Events for Seventh Sense OÜ

Event	Date	Amount
EIC Accelerator Selection	Mar-Jun 2022	Up to ~€17.5M total possible (€2.5M grant + up to €15M equity)
Convertible Note Round	Sep 2023	$100K
Estonian Development Grant	Not specified	€34,562.50

No exits reported; latest valuation estimate: $9.5–$18.2M.

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Sources

• Seventh Sense company information – Startup Estonia
• Most competitive EIC Accelerator cut-off awards major funding round
• 7Sense homepage
• Seventh Sense Company Profile – MAGNiTT

3 The Press Releases

Seventh Sense: EIC Accelerator Winner from Estonia

Seventh Sense, a company from Estonia, was selected as one of the winners in the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program during the March 2022 cut-off. The company specializes in providing independent mobility to the blind and visually impaired using wearable remote touch sensing technology.

Technology and Impact

Seventh Sense's innovative technology aims to enhance the lives of individuals with visual impairments by offering them greater independence and mobility. Their wearable technology uses telehaptics, which could significantly improve the quality of life for those who are blind or visually impaired.

Funding and Support

As part of the EIC Accelerator program, Seventh Sense received funding to support the development and commercialization of its technology. The EIC Accelerator offers a combination of grants and equity investments, providing successful applicants with up to €17.5 million in blended finance. Seventh Sense specifically received grant funding for its project.

Press Releases and Updates

There are no recent press releases or updates available on Seventh Sense's website or social media accounts regarding new partnerships, technology advancements, or team updates since their EIC Accelerator win. However, their selection for the EIC Accelerator highlights their potential for innovation and impact in assistive technology.

Website and Contact

For more information on Seventh Sense, one can visit their website at 7sense.ee.

Sources

• Most competitive EIC Accelerator cut-off awards major funding round
• EIC Accelerator winners March 2022
• EIC Accelerator 23 March cut-off

4 The Technology Advancements

Current Capabilities of Seventh Sense

Seventh Sense, an Estonian company, is known for developing a high-resolution telehaptic sight. This technology allows visually impaired individuals to perceive their surroundings through touch, enabling them to sense objects, motion, speed, and distance. The system provides situational awareness, facilitating everyday activities and enhancing social interaction for those with severe visual impairments.

Advancements Since EIC Accelerator Funding

As of the latest available information, Seventh Sense has not publicly detailed specific advancements directly linked to the EIC Accelerator funding received in March 2022. However, the company has been working closely with significant partners like Deutsche Telekom and Nvidia, which suggests ongoing development and potential integration of their technology with broader technological ecosystems.

Improvement and New Features

While there is no explicit mention of new features or improvements since the funding, Seventh Sense's collaboration with major technology companies implies that they are likely refining their technology to align with industry standards and advancements. Their focus remains on enhancing the haptic experience for visually impaired individuals.

Market Demonstration

There is no specific information on recent market demonstrations, pilots, or clinical trials conducted by Seventh Sense since receiving the EIC funding. However, their technology has been highlighted as highly effective in providing situational awareness and enhancing user interaction with the environment.

Patents and Scientific Publications

There is no recent information available regarding new patents filed or scientific studies published by Seventh Sense specifically since the EIC Accelerator funding in 2022.

Conclusion

Seventh Sense continues to innovate in the field of telehaptic technology, aiming to improve the lives of visually impaired individuals. While specific advancements or new features are not detailed in recent publications, their partnerships are likely driving further development and integration within the tech industry.

Sources

• 7Sense: Homepage
• An Estonian startup captures Deutsche Telekom and Nvidia's attention with groundbreaking technology
• Press - 7Sense

5 The Partnerships and Customers

Seventh Sense's Strategic Partnerships and Market Positioning Estonian assistive technology company Seventh Sense (7Sense) has cultivated key partnerships with industry leaders to advance its mission of enhancing mobility for the visually impaired. The company’s primary collaborators include Deutsche Telekom and Nvidia, both of which have expressed strong interest in its telehaptic wearable technology.

• Deutsche Telekom: The collaboration focuses on exploring telehaptics applications beyond assistive devices, including potential use cases in remote operations or augmented reality. This partnership aids market entry strategies and validates 7Sense’s credibility.
• Nvidia: Access to Nvidia’s pre-release hardware accelerates 7Sense’s ability to integrate cutting-edge AI chipsets into its wearable devices, improving real-time object detection and haptic feedback precision.
• Manufacturing partners: Local Estonian firms like Balti Trafo and Incap support hardware production, ensuring scalability for European markets.

Market Strategy:
Targeting Spain, Germany, and the UK—countries with well-funded programs for visual impairment aids—7Sense leverages Spain’s ONCE association as a critical gateway due to its centralized procurement system for assistive technologies. Strategic distribution partners in these regions help educate stakeholders about the device’s capabilities, addressing market fragmentation challenges.

Technology Advancement & Scaling:
By collaborating with Nvidia, 7Sense gains early access to AI advancements that enhance sensor processing speeds. Meanwhile, Deutsche Telekom’s infrastructure expertise could enable cloud-based haptic data sharing or IoT integration. State support from Estonia’s Enterprise and Innovation Foundation (EIS) further facilitates R&D and export initiatives.

These relationships position 7Sense as a pioneer in telehaptic navigation tools while enabling rapid scaling through established global networks. As partnerships mature, they may unlock cross-industry applications in robotics or autonomous systems beyond assistive technology niches.

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Sources used:

• 7Sense captures Deutsche Telekom and Nvidia's attention
• Official website: 7sense.ee

6 The Hiring and Company Growth

Seventh Sense (7Sense) Team Growth and Structure Post-EIC Accelerator Funding As of July 2024, Estonian haptic technology startup Seventh Sense OÜ (7Sense) employs 10 full-time staff, with a technical team of seven engineers and three business development specialists. The company has not disclosed specific hiring campaigns or recent key hires, but its lean structure emphasizes cross-functional collaboration to advance its flagship product, the SuperBrain 1—a head-mounted device that translates visual data into tactile signals for visually impaired users.

While explicit growth metrics post-2022 EIC Accelerator win are unavailable, partnerships with Deutsche Telekom and Nvidia suggest scaling efforts through R&D collaboration and market-entry strategies. The technical team’s focus remains on miniaturizing the device for mass production, indicating potential future hires in engineering and manufacturing roles. No management changes have been reported since the founders—engineers Johannes Väänänen and Raido Kislov—launched the company.

State support from Enterprise Estonia has enabled 7Sense to retain product development locally while accessing international advisory networks, positioning it as a rare player in telehaptics with no direct competitors offering comparable working solutions. Future growth will likely depend on partnerships to navigate fragmented European markets for assistive technologies.

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Sources

• An Estonian startup captures Deutsche Telekom and Nvidia's attention
• 7Sense captures Deutsche Telekom and Nvidia's attention
• Estonian startup 7Sense makes groundbreaking haptic tech

7 The Media Features and Publications

Seventh Sense, an Estonian company that won the EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022, has garnered attention through various media features, publications, and event participations related primarily to its innovative telehaptic technology for the visually impaired and its AI-driven email marketing optimization solutions.

Media Features and Publications

• Seventh Sense is prominently featured on its official website where it describes its core innovation: a high-resolution telehaptic sight enabling blind people to "feel" their environment via touch.
• The company has attracted attention from significant industry players such as Deutsche Telekom and Nvidia for its groundbreaking technology in sensory substitution.
• Coverage includes digital platforms like TikTok, showcasing product tests such as the SuperBrain 1 Helmet that highlights their tactile sensory technology.
• While broader Estonian media ecosystem context was highlighted in reports about Estonia's strong press freedom environment, no direct mass-media articles specifically naming Seventh Sense were found beyond specialized tech or startup coverage.
• An international profile of a different "Seventh Sense Artificial Intelligence Private Limited," based in Singapore with expertise in face recognition AI, appears unrelated to this Estonian startup’s domain but reflects some name conflation online.

Content from Publications

• Articles emphasize Seventh Sense’s revolutionary approach by reinventing "sight" through touch for blind users. This includes detailed descriptions of how the technology allows perception of objects’ motion, speed, and distance remotely via haptic feedback.
• Case studies outside Estonia detail how Seventh Sense expanded global market reach using trade show grants (such as exhibiting at HubSpot’s INBOUND conference), which increased international revenue by facilitating partnerships with marketing agencies worldwide. This also led to co-authored digital content pieces and international podcasts featuring the company’s team members discussing their SaaS AI email optimization platform aimed at personalizing email delivery times for better ROI.

Podcasts or Interviews

Following participation in international conferences like INBOUND (2017 & 2019), Seventh Sense appeared as guests on multiple international podcasts related to marketing automation and AI personalization technologies. These interviews helped extend awareness among global audiences alongside webinars conducted with partners abroad.

Conferences and Fair Participation

The company notably participated in major industry events such as HubSpot's INBOUND conference held internationally. Thanks to support from Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP), it could exhibit there twice despite budget constraints. These appearances facilitated networking leading to client acquisition across continents including Chile, Brazil, Germany, Canada etc.

Involvement at Events

Besides exhibiting at trade shows focused on marketing technologies globally since before their EIC Accelerator award date (2017 onwards), there is evidence suggesting involvement with other promotional activities including webinars linked with partner agencies internationally.

To summarize:

Aspect	Details
Media Features	Website press page; coverage by Deutsche Telekom & Nvidia interest; TikTok product demos
Publications Naming	Tech-focused articles highlighting telehaptic ‘remote sense of touch’ innovation
Content Descriptions	Reinventing sight via haptics; enhancing email marketing ROI using AI personalization
Podcasts/Interviews	International podcast guest spots post-INBOUND participation
Conferences/Fairs	Exhibited at HubSpot's INBOUND conference (2017/2019) supported by VEDP
Event Involvement	Webinars co-hosted with partners; active pursuit of global market presence

No specific mainstream news media articles or large-scale interviews have been documented publicly apart from niche tech/startup channels reflected above.

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Sources:

• 7Sense Homepage
• Press - 7Sense
• TradeWithEstonia - 7Sense captures Deutsche Telekom ...
• TikTok - Tallinn Old Town SuperBrain Test
• Export Virginia case study on Seventh Sense