1 The EIC Accelerator Project
Overview of the EIC Accelerator Program
The EIC Accelerator program, part of the European Innovation Council (EIC), is designed to support innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups in Europe, particularly those involved in deep tech and high-risk projects. The primary objective of the EIC Accelerator is to foster innovation that can lead to significant societal impact and economic growth. By providing financial support, mentorship, and access to a network of investors, the program aims to bridge the gap between initial innovation and commercialization, enabling companies to scale effectively.
Funding Structure
The EIC Accelerator offers a blended finance model, combining grants and equity funding. Under this model, companies can receive:
- Grants: Up to €2.5 million are available to cover costs associated with the development of innovative products, processes, or services. This funding is primarily aimed at supporting prototyping, testing, and market entry.
- Equity Funding: Up to €15 million was available until 2024, which is intended for companies seeking substantial investments to scale their operations. From 2025, this amount will be reduced to €10 million. The equity component is particularly beneficial for startups that require significant capital to accelerate their growth and reach markets successfully.
Purpose in the Ecosystem
The EIC Accelerator plays a vital role in the European deep tech and startup ecosystem by enabling companies to push the boundaries of innovation. It specifically targets high-risk sectors where private investment may be scarce or hesitant. By providing financial resources and strategic support, the EIC Accelerator helps startups navigate complex development phases, facilitating connections with private investors and industry experts. This support increases the likelihood of successful scaling and market penetration, which is crucial for sustaining innovation and economic vitality in Europe.
Role in Scaling Companies
The EIC Accelerator not only provides funding but also offers mentorship and access to a network of potential investors and partners. This dual approach allows companies to refine their business models, enhance their market strategies, and ultimately attract additional private sector funding. By de-risking the investment for private investors, the EIC Accelerator creates a more favorable environment for startups to thrive and expand.
Case Study: TENSIVE SRL and the REGNERA Project
Company Overview
TENSIVE SRL, an innovative company based in Italy, is dedicated to developing advanced medical solutions. The company’s commitment to improving health outcomes is exemplified by its recent project, REGNERA.
Project REGNERA
The REGNERA project focuses on creating a natural breast implant designed specifically for cancer survivors. This resorbable implant is engineered to support tissue regeneration, addressing a critical need for patients who have undergone mastectomy or other breast surgeries due to cancer.
Technology Background
The REGNERA implant utilizes advanced biomaterials that promote natural tissue regeneration. Traditional breast implants often pose risks of complications and do not integrate well with the body’s own tissues. In contrast, the REGNERA implant is designed to be resorbable, meaning that it gradually dissolves in the body over time, allowing for the natural growth of new tissue to take its place. This innovative approach not only provides a temporary solution for aesthetic reconstruction but also supports the healing process and enhances overall patient outcomes.
The technology behind REGNERA involves a combination of biocompatibility and bioactivity, ensuring that the implant not only serves as a physical support structure but also actively contributes to tissue healing. This is achieved through the incorporation of bioactive compounds that stimulate cellular activity and promote regeneration.
Impact and Future Prospects
By winning the EIC Accelerator funding, TENSIVE SRL is positioned to further develop and commercialize the REGNERA project. The combined grant and equity funding will allow the company to conduct essential clinical trials, refine the product design, and ultimately bring a revolutionary solution to market for cancer survivors. This initiative not only exemplifies the transformative potential of the EIC Accelerator program but also underscores the importance of innovation in healthcare, particularly for underserved patient populations.
In summary, the EIC Accelerator is a crucial element in advancing Europe’s deep tech landscape, providing the necessary support for companies like TENSIVE SRL to innovate and scale effectively. The REGNERA project represents a significant step forward in medical technology, aiming to improve the quality of life for cancer survivors through groundbreaking solutions.
2 The Funding Rounds
TENSIVE SRL: Financing and Funding Overview Since EIC Accelerator Win (October 2022)
Financing Raised
- In April 2025, Tensive SRL announced a major funding milestone, securing €54 million to accelerate their work in regenerative medicine and biomaterials for reconstructive surgery, particularly focused on breast cancer survivors. This is the company’s largest disclosed funding round to date and represents significant investor confidence in its technology and growth trajectory.
- Prior to this, in January 2025, Tensive closed a €14 million Series A financing round led by Panakès Partners SGR. This round was pivotal for scaling clinical trials of their lead product REGENERA for post-lumpectomy breast reconstruction.
Funding Rounds: Timing & Amount
| Date | Funding Round | Amount Raised | Lead Investor(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 2025 | Major Funding (Round undisclosed) | €54 million | Not publicly disclosed |
| January 2025 | Series A | €14 million | Panakès Partners SGR |
| May 2016 | Seed/Early | $561,120 (~€500K) | CDP Venture Capital |
Investor Information
- The Series A (€14M) was led by Panakès Partners SGR, with support from both existing and new investors. Additional detailed investor lists were not publicly available for subsequent rounds as of early May 2025.
- Previous seed investment came from CDP Venture Capital around May 2016.
Use of Funds & Strategic Impact
Company Valuation
Exit Events: IPOs or Acquisitions
Summary Table
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| EIC Accelerator Win | Oct. 5th, 2022 | Received EU grant/equity support; spurred further commercial/clinical progress |
| Series A | Jan. 30th 2025 €14M led by Panakès Partners SGR; focus on clinical trial expansion | |
| Major Funding Round Apr. 14th 25 €54M raised; purpose: R&D acceleration/manufacturing/partnerships | ||
| Seed/Early Stage May 21st 2016 $561K (~€500K) from CDP Venture Capital | ||
| Exit Events — None reported as of current date |
Sources
- Tensive raises €14m Series A Financing Round
- Tensive raises €14m - Panakès Partners
- TENSIVE SRL Secures €54m for Biomaterials Innovation
- TENSIVE SRL – Parsers VC company profile
3 The Press Releases
Tensive SRL: Recent Developments and Funding
Tensive SRL, an innovative medical technology company based in Italy, has made significant strides since receiving funding from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator in October 2022. The company was awarded a blended finance package consisting of a €2.5 million grant and an additional €6 million in equity investment for its groundbreaking project, REGENERA.Technology and Mission
Tensive focuses on developing innovative biomaterials for reconstructive surgery, particularly for breast cancer survivors and patients undergoing breast augmentation. Their mission is to provide natural breast reconstruction options using bio-absorbable implants that support tissue self-regeneration.Recent Funding Milestone
In April 2025, Tensive SRL announced a major funding milestone, securing €54 million to further its mission in regenerative medicine. This substantial investment underscores the confidence investors have in Tensive's vision and innovative approach. The funds will accelerate research and development, enhance R&D capabilities, and support strategic partnerships with leading medical institutions.Patents and Innovations
Tensive holds patents related to foamed polyurethane polymers used as scaffolds for connective tissue regeneration, such as adipose, osteochondral, and bone tissues. These polymers are designed to improve hydrophilia and are used in both in vitro cell cultures and in vivo implantations.Team and Leadership
The company is led by CEO Federico Martello, Chief Scientific Officer Alessandro Tocchio, and President Alberto Cantaluppi. The team's relentless efforts have been instrumental in securing funding and advancing the company's mission.Press Releases and Updates
Updates on Tensive's progress can be found on their official website, tensivemed.com, where they share news on funding achievements and technological advancements. However, specific press releases on social media platforms or additional blog posts were not detailed in the available information.Sources
- Tensive is awarded by the European Innovation Council Accelerator
- Tensive SRL
- TENSIVE SRL Secures €54M to Revolutionize Biomaterials
- Patents Assigned to TENSIVE S.R.L.
4 The Technology Advancements
Tensive Srl: Current Capabilities and Advancements
Tensive Srl, a biomedical startup based in Milan, Italy, has been at the forefront of developing innovative biomaterials for regenerative medicine, particularly focusing on breast reconstruction after lumpectomy and breast augmentation. Established in 2012, the company aims to provide natural breast reconstruction options for breast cancer survivors and superior aesthetic outcomes for patients undergoing breast augmentation.
Current Capabilities
- Product Development: Tensive's primary focus is on developing bio-absorbable implants, such as the REGENERA implant, designed to support tissue self-regeneration. This technology is pivotal for patients undergoing reconstructive surgery after lumpectomy for malignant breast lesions.
- Research and Development: The company is committed to advancing regenerative medicine through the development of advanced biomaterials. This includes foamed polyurethane polymers for connective tissue regeneration, for which Tensive holds patents.
Advancements Since EIC Accelerator Funding
In October 2022, Tensive received blended funding from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator, consisting of a €2.5 million grant and an additional €6 million in equity investment. This support has been crucial for advancing clinical trials and commercializing Tensive's technology.
- Clinical Trials: The EIC funding has enabled Tensive to initiate pivotal clinical trials for the REGENERA implant. These trials are being conducted at leading breast cancer surgery centers across Italy and Spain to evaluate the safety and performance of the implant.
- Funding and Expansion: Following the EIC funding, Tensive has secured additional significant investments. In early 2025, the company raised €14 million in a Series A financing round to further support the clinical trials of the REGENERA implant. Later in 2025, Tensive secured €54 million, further solidifying its position in regenerative medicine and allowing for expanded research and development capabilities.
Technology Improvements and New Features
Tensive's bio-absorbable implants are designed to improve upon traditional breast reconstruction methods by offering a more natural tissue regeneration process. The REGENERA implant is a key innovation, providing patients with a superior aesthetic outcome and supporting natural tissue growth.
Market Demonstration
While specific market demonstrations or customer deployments of Tensive's technology have not been detailed, the initiation of clinical trials marks a significant step toward bringing the technology to patients. These trials are crucial for validating the safety and efficacy of the REGENERA implant.
New Patents and Scientific Studies
There have been no recent announcements of new patents or scientific studies since the EIC funding. However, Tensive continues to refine its biomaterials and regenerative medicine solutions, building on existing patents related to foamed polyurethane polymers.
Conclusion
Tensive Srl has made significant advancements in the development of bio-absorbable implants for breast reconstruction, particularly with the support from the EIC Accelerator program. The company's focus on regenerative medicine and recent funding milestones position it well for future growth and innovation in the field.
Sources
- Tensive Srl
- Tensive raises €14M for bio-absorbable breast implant
- Tensive SRL Secures €54M to Revolutionize Biomaterials for Breast Cancer Reconstructive Surgery
- Tensive is awarded by the European Innovation Council Accelerator
- Patents Assigned to TENSIVE S.R.L
5 The Partnerships and Customers
Tensive SRL: Partnerships and Advancements Since EIC Accelerator Funding
Tensive SRL, an Italian biomedical startup, has been a recipient of the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding in October 2022. This funding consisted of a €2.5 million grant and an additional €6 million in equity investment. Since then, Tensive has made significant strides in partnerships and technological advancements.
Partnerships and Customers
- Panakès Partners SGR: Tensive recently concluded a €14 million Series A financing round led by Panakès Partners, a notable venture capital firm specializing in life sciences. This partnership is crucial for accelerating Tensive's clinical trials and global expansion.
- Leading Breast Cancer Surgery Centers: Tensive has initiated a pivotal clinical trial for its REGENERA implant, collaborating with prominent breast cancer surgery centers in Italy and Spain.
- Strategic Partnerships: The company plans to form strategic partnerships with leading medical institutions and research centers to enhance the safety and efficacy of its products.
New Partnerships
- Investors in Series A Round: Besides Panakès Partners, details about other new investors participating in the recent funding rounds are not explicitly mentioned. However, the successful funding reflects the confidence of both existing and new investors in Tensive's vision.
- EIC Accelerator Network: As part of the EIC Accelerator program, Tensive gains access to a broad network of experts, corporates, investors, and ecosystem actors.
Nature of Relationships and Purpose
Tensive's partnerships are designed to support its mission of revolutionizing regenerative medicine, particularly in breast reconstruction surgery. These collaborations are integral for:
- Clinical Trials: Funding from partners like Panakès will facilitate the completion of pivotal clinical trials for Tensive's REGENERA implant, ensuring its safety and performance.
- Technology Advancements: The infusion of capital and expertise from new partnerships will accelerate research and development, enabling the refinement of Tensive's biomaterials.
- Market Positioning: By strengthening its product pipeline and expanding its network, Tensive aims to transform the landscape of breast reconstruction, enhancing its market presence globally.
Positioning in the Market
Tensive's new relationships are poised to significantly enhance its standing in the market by:
- Scaling Operations: With increased funding, Tensive can expand its team and invest in state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, ensuring the production of high-quality biomaterials.
- Global Expansion: Strategic partnerships will facilitate Tensive's entry into new markets, making its innovative solutions accessible to a broader audience.
Technology Advancements and Scaling
The partnerships and funding Tensive has secured will drive technology advancements by: - Enhanced R&D Capabilities: The company can refine its biomaterials and conduct extensive clinical testing, ensuring the efficacy of its products.
Sources
- Tensive Srl
- Tensive raises €14,000,000 Series A Financing
- Tensive SRL Secures €54M to Revolutionize Biomaterials
- Tensive is awarded by the European Innovation Council Accelerator
6 The Hiring and Company Growth
Tensive SRL: Growth and Development Post EIC Accelerator Funding
Tensive SRL, an innovative biomedical startup based in Italy, received EIC Accelerator funding on October 5, 2022. The company is renowned for developing advanced biomaterials for regenerative medicine, particularly focusing on reconstructive surgery for breast cancer survivors.
Current Headcount and Team Size
As of recent data, Tensive SRL has approximately 31 employees, though some sources estimate around 25-31 employees. This small but specialized team indicates a focus on expertise rather than large-scale operations.
Hiring and Team Growth
Following the receipt of significant funding, Tensive SRL has been expanding its team by hiring expert scientists, engineers, and medical professionals. This expansion is crucial for accelerating research and development initiatives, refining clinical testing of their pioneering biomaterials, and enhancing manufacturing capabilities.
Recent Hiring and Key Positions
While specific key positions recently hired are not detailed in available information, the company's emphasis on R&D and clinical studies suggestsassistant
Tensive SRL: Growth and Development Post EIC Accelerator Funding
Tensive SRL, an innovative biomedical startup based in Italy, received EIC Accelerator funding on October 5, 2022. The company is renowned for developing advanced biomaterials for regenerative medicine, particularly focusing on reconstructive surgery for breast cancer survivors.
Current Headcount and Team Size
As of recent data, Tensive SRL has approximately 31 employees, though some sources estimate around 25-31 employees. This small but specialized team indicates a focus on expertise rather than large-scale operations.
Hiring and Team Growth
Following the receipt of significant funding, Tensive SRL has been expanding its team by hiring expert scientists, engineers, and medical professionals. This expansion is crucial for accelerating research and development initiatives, refining clinical testing of their pioneering biomaterials, and enhancing manufacturing capabilities.
Recent Hiring and Key Positions
While specific key positions recently hired are not detailed in available information, the company's emphasis on R&D and clinical studies suggests that they are likely recruiting professionals with expertise in these areas. A notable figure in the company is Federico Martello, who serves as the Chief Industrial Officer.
Growth and Scaling
The growth of Tensive SRL is marked by significant financial investments. In April 2025, they secured €54 million in funding to further develop their biomaterials for reconstructive surgery. This substantial investment underscores the confidence in their innovative approach and will enable the company to scale rapidly by expanding its team, investing in state-of-the-art facilities, and forming strategic partnerships with leading medical institutions.
Future Impact
The addition of new team members will be pivotal for Tensive SRL as it seeks to revolutionize regenerative medicine. By enhancing their research capabilities and collaborating with medical institutions, they aim to improve the quality of life for patients undergoing reconstructive surgery after breast cancer. This strategic growth positions the company to address unmet clinical needs more effectively and contribute significantly to the field of regenerative medicine.
Major Changes in Management or Founding Team
There is no publicly available information regarding recent changes in the management or founding team of Tensive SRL.
Sources
7 The Media Features and Publications
Overview of TENSIVE SRL
TENSIVE SRL, an Italian biomedical company founded in 2012, specializes in developing innovative scaffolds for natural breast reconstruction or augmentation. Following its win in the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program in October 2022, TENSIVE SRL has received significant attention for its groundbreaking work in regenerative medicine.
Media Features and Publications
TENSIVE SRL has been featured in several publications, including La Repubblica, which highlighted its developments in biodegradable prosthetics for breast reconstructive surgery. Additionally, the company has been recognized in international publications such as Wired and Forbes, further solidifying its reputation in the field of biotechnology.
Podcasts and Interviews
There is no specific information available on podcasts or interviews featuring TENSIVE SRL's team members. However, the company's innovative approach and achievements have likely been discussed in various industry-focused platforms and events.
Conference and Fair Participations
While specific details about TENSIVE SRL's participation in conferences or fairs are not readily available, companies in the biotechnology sector often engage in major events like the Bio-IT World Expo to present their research and innovations. Given TENSIVE SRL's focus on regenerative medicine, it is likely involved in similar conferences to showcase its advancements.
Involvement in Events
TENSIVE SRL's recent funding milestones and its involvement in the EIC Accelerator program suggest that the company is actively engaged in events and forums related to biomedical innovation and entrepreneurship. The award from the EIC Accelerator has been crucial for supporting clinical trials and commercialization efforts, indicating a strong presence in industry-related events and networking.
Recent Developments
In 2025, TENSIVE SRL secured €54 million in funding to further its mission in regenerative medicine, particularly in breast reconstructive surgery for cancer survivors. This significant investment will help accelerate research, expand its team, and establish strategic partnerships with leading medical institutions.
Conclusion
TENSIVE SRL's commitment to improving breast reconstruction techniques through innovative biomaterials has positioned it as a leader in the field of regenerative medicine. With its recent funding and recognition from the EIC Accelerator, the company is poised to make significant impacts in the healthcare sector.
Sources
- Tensive Srl
- TENSIVE SRL Information - RocketReach
- Tensive is awarded by the European Innovation Council Accelerator
- Lab Manager (Closed) - Tensive
- TENSIVE SRL Secures €54M to Revolutionize Biomaterials for Breast Cancer Reconstructive Surgery
- The Thoughtful Entrepreneur - A B2B Podcast by Josh Elledge
- International Stainless & Special Steel Conference 2024
- Speaker Biographies at Bio-IT World Expo
- Tensive S.r.l. Company Overview
- Careers - Arithmos
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