1 The EIC Accelerator Project

EIC Accelerator Program Overview

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program is a cornerstone of the European Union's strategy to support innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups, particularly those involved in deep technology (DeepTech) sectors. As part of the EIC, the Accelerator aims to promote breakthrough innovations that can significantly impact society and the economy. The program focuses on high-risk, high-potential startups that are developing groundbreaking technologies or solutions in sectors such as health, energy, and digital transformation.

Funding Structure

The EIC Accelerator provides blended finance, which includes both grants and equity investments to support the scaling of innovative companies. The financial support can take the following forms:

Purpose of the EIC Accelerator

The EIC Accelerator is designed to bridge the gap between the early-stage development of innovative ideas and their successful market entry. By providing substantial financial resources, the program empowers startups to overcome common barriers such as high development costs and limited access to venture capital. In doing so, it plays a vital role in fostering the European deep tech ecosystem, encouraging collaboration among innovators, investors, and researchers to drive economic growth and technological advancement.

Role in Scaling Companies

By offering both grants and equity, the EIC Accelerator serves as a catalyst for scaling companies. The blended finance approach enables startups to secure necessary funds without solely relying on private investors, which can be challenging in the early stages. This facilitates the development of a minimum viable product (MVP), testing in real markets, and scaling operations. Moreover, the program can enhance a startup's credibility, making it more attractive to private investors and venture capitalists, which can lead to further funding opportunities.

Case Study: UniverCell Holding GmbH and Project C2C-CSA

Company Overview: UniverCell Holding GmbH, based in Germany, is a pioneering company that specializes in advanced battery technologies. The firm has recently gained recognition as an EIC Accelerator winner for its innovative project titled C2C-CSA (Customized 21700 Cylindrical Cells for Special Applications).

Project Description: The C2C-CSA project focuses on developing customized 21700 cylindrical lithium-ion battery cells tailored for specific applications, particularly in sectors that require high-performance energy solutions. These cylindrical cells are increasingly used in electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and portable electronics due to their higher energy density and efficiency compared to traditional battery formats.

Technology Background: The 21700 cell format is a modern iteration of lithium-ion battery technology, designed to provide superior performance in terms of energy density, thermal stability, and overall efficiency. By customizing these cells, UniverCell aims to meet the unique requirements of various industries, which often face challenges in finding battery solutions that can effectively support their specific operational needs.

The C2C-CSA project is positioned to leverage advanced materials science and engineering techniques to enhance the battery's performance metrics, such as charge/discharge rates, lifecycle longevity, and safety features. This innovation not only addresses the growing demand for efficient battery solutions but also aligns with broader sustainability goals by potentially reducing waste and improving resource utilization.

Conclusion

The EIC Accelerator program plays a pivotal role in supporting innovative companies like UniverCell Holding GmbH, enabling them to bring transformative technologies to market. Through its blended finance model, the program provides essential funding that encourages deep tech startups to scale effectively and attract private investments. The success of projects like C2C-CSA underscores the importance of targeted support in driving technological advancements and fostering a vibrant European startup ecosystem.

2 The Funding Rounds

# UniverCell Holding GmbH: EIC Accelerator Winner (November 2023)

UniverCell Holding GmbH, a German cell manufacturer based in Flintbek, North Germany, received €2.4 million in funding from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator in November 2023. The company specializes in producing electrodes and cells based on lithium-ion technology, focusing on high-quality, high-performance energy storage systems with customized solutions.

Company Overview

UniverCell Holding is a German company that produces electrodes and cells based on Li-ion technology. The company has established itself as a significant player in the European battery manufacturing landscape, with a production capacity of over 1.5 GWh per year. UniverCell focuses on developing energy storage systems that challenge the status quo, prioritizing quality, performance, innovative technology, and customized solutions. Their production emphasizes a low CO2 footprint combined with a unique recycling concept.

The company operates a manufacturing facility in Flintbek, Germany, where they coat electrode foils according to individual desired formulations and materials, tailored to specific applications. UniverCell's product range includes various cell types, from button cells and prototype cells to larger pouch cells and 21700 cylindrical cells, designed to deliver maximum energy output for diverse applications.

Funding History

EIC Accelerator Funding

In November 2023, UniverCell Holding secured €2.4 million from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program. This funding represents a significant milestone for the company's growth and development in the European battery manufacturing sector.

Other Funding Sources

Prior to the EIC Accelerator funding, UniverCell Holding received support from the state program for the economy (LPW) 2014-2020, with funds from the community task "Improvement of the regional economic structure" (GRW). This funding contributed to the establishment of their operating facility in Flintbek, Germany.

Market Applications

UniverCell's battery technology serves various sectors and applications:

• Energy Storage: Solar energy, wind power, and emergency power supply systems
• Transportation: Sports cars, e-bikes, construction vehicles, drones, air taxis, and aircraft
• Industrial: Forklifts, industrial trucks, and power tools
• Specialized Sectors: Medical products, marine applications, and defense

Partnerships

In 2021, UniverCell Holding formed a strategic partnership with Akku Vision GmbH, a German e-bike battery specialist. Under this partnership, Akku Vision began using UniverCell's cells in production from the end of 2022, with plans to increase volumes in 2023 and beyond. This collaboration aligns with the growing trend of European customers turning to local supply solutions amid disruptions in global supply chains, particularly for goods manufactured in Asia.

Manufacturing Approach

UniverCell emphasizes its "Made in Germany" production as a key differentiator in the market. The company leverages years of experience and proprietary patents to deliver reliable, high-quality products. Their manufacturing capabilities include:

The company's focus on European manufacturing aligns with broader efforts to establish a more resilient and localized battery supply chain within Europe.

Sources: - UniverCell Holding company information, funding & investors

• UniverCell: Electrode and cell production Gigafactory in Europe
• AKKU VISION IN PARTNERSHIP WITH GERMAN CELL MANUFACTURER

3 The Press Releases

Overview of UniverCell Holding GmbH

UniverCell Holding GmbH, a German company, won the EIC Accelerator funding on November 8, 2023. However, specific press releases or updates directly related to UniverCell Holding GmbH are not available in the provided search results. The search results primarily focus on Univercells and Univercells Technologies, which are distinct entities involved in biotechnology and bioprocessing technologies.

Given the lack of direct information on UniverCell Holding GmbH, we will focus on the general context of the EIC Accelerator funding and what it signifies for companies in Europe.

EIC Accelerator Funding

The EIC Accelerator is part of the European Innovation Council (EIC) program, which provides substantial funding to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups in Europe. This funding is designed to support the development and commercialization of innovative technologies, helping companies bridge the gap from the development stage to market entry.

Winning the EIC Accelerator funding is a significant achievement for any company, as it indicates that the company has been recognized for its innovative ideas and potential for growth. This funding typically supports projects that address pressing societal challenges or have the potential to create new markets.

Technology Advancements and Partnerships

While there is no specific information available on UniverCell Holding GmbH, companies that receive EIC funding often engage in technological advancements and strategic partnerships to enhance their products and services. These partnerships can range from collaborations with research institutions to joint ventures with industry leaders.

Press Releases and Social Media

Typically, companies receiving significant funding like the EIC Accelerator would issue press releases to announce their achievements and outline their future plans. These releases often highlight new technologies, strategic partnerships, and team updates. However, for UniverCell Holding GmbH, no such press releases could be found in the public domain.

Univercell.group Updates

There are no updates available on univercell.group related to press releases or blog posts about UniverCell Holding GmbH. This could be due to the site not being actively updated or the lack of publicly available information.

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Sources:

• Press Releases Archives - Univercells
• Press releases - Univercells Technologies
• Press Release: Univercells expands into the United States with new offices in Andover, MA
• Newsroom - Univercells Technologies
• Univercells
• The two companies announce a worldwide strategic partnership
• Press material for our electrode and cell production Gigafactory
• We transform how biotech drugs are made
• Social Media Press Release Guide

4 The Technology Advancements

UniverCell Holding GmbH: Current Capabilities and Advancements

UniverCell Holding GmbH, based in Germany, is a leading developer and producer of high-quality battery electrodes and cells. The company is focused on providing customized solutions for various applications, including solar energy, wind power, emergency power supplies, sports cars, e-bikes, construction vehicles, drones, air taxis, aircraft, medical products, marine, defense, forklifts, industrial trucks, and power tools.

Current Capabilities

UniverCell's capabilities include coating electrode foils according to individual formulations and materials, tailored to specific applications. They offer the production of first cells, such as button cells, prototype cells, and larger pouch cells, to industrial standards. Their product lineup includes cylindrical cells like the 21700 cells, which are designed to maximize energy output for various applications.

Advancements Since EIC Accelerator Funding

As of the latest available information, there is no specific mention of advancements made by UniverCell Holding GmbH directly linked to the EIC Accelerator funding received in November 2023. However, the company has been involved in strategic partnerships and technology developments. For example, UniverCell partnered with Nanoramic Laboratories in 2021 to commercialize Neocarbonix™ electrode technology, which offers significant cost and performance improvements for Li-ion batteries.

Technology Improvements and Market Demonstrations

UniverCell's focus on innovative technologies and high-quality products is evident from their approach to optimizing production processes. While specific demonstrations or pilots since the EIC funding are not detailed, the company continues to emphasize its commitment to delivering customized battery solutions for diverse applications.

Patents, Studies, and Whitepapers

There is no recent information available regarding new patents filed or scientific studies published by UniverCell since the EIC funding. Their ongoing efforts are centered around developing and scaling up their battery production capabilities.

Conclusion

UniverCell Holding GmbH is a key player in the European battery industry, offering customized electrode and cell solutions. While specific advancements directly tied to the EIC Accelerator funding are not detailed, the company's continued focus on innovative technology and production optimization positions it well for future growth.

Sources

• UniverCell: Electrode and cell production Gigafactory in Europe
• UniverCell Holding GmbH and Nanoramic Laboratories Announce Partnership
• Our Gigafactory for electrodes and cells in Europe - UniverCell

5 The Partnerships and Customers

UniverCell Holding GmbH: Partnerships and Recent Developments

UniverCell Holding GmbH, a German cell manufacturer based in Flintbek, North Germany, has been actively engaged in partnerships to enhance its presence in the battery and energy storage sector. Notably, the company has partnered with Akku Vision GmbH, a specialist in e-bike batteries, to produce customized cylindrical cells for both aftermarket and OEM eMobility solutions. This collaboration highlights UniverCell's focus on technology advancements and supply chain security.

Partnerships and Customers

• Akku Vision GmbH: This partnership involves using UniverCell's 18650 and 21700 cylindrical cells in battery packs, leveraging the combined expertise to offer innovative products with high energy density.
• Other Partnerships: While specific details on new partners or customers are not available, UniverCell maintains close relationships with various technology companies, research institutions, and material manufacturers to stay updated on the latest energy storage technologies.

New Relationships and Market Positioning

Any new partnerships or relationships would likely aim to strengthen UniverCell's position in the German and European battery manufacturing market. By collaborating with technology-driven companies, UniverCell seeks to enhance its custom-made cell offerings and improve supply chain reliability.

Technology Advancements and Scaling

These partnerships are crucial for UniverCell's technological advancements, as they allow for the development of customized cells that meet diverse market demands. The collaboration with Akku Vision, for example, ensures a competitive advantage in the e-bike and eMobility sectors by offering high-quality, tailored battery solutions.

The EIC Accelerator funding received in November 2023 is expected to further support UniverCell's growth and innovation strategies, potentially leading to increased investment in research and development, and enhancing its capacity to scale production efficiently.

Sources

• AKKU VISION IN PARTNERSHIP WITH GERMAN CELL MANUFACTURER UNIVERCELL
• Partner of our electrode and cell production Gigafactory in Europe
• akku vision in partnership with german cell manufacturer univercell

6 The Hiring and Company Growth

UniverCell Holding GmbH: Post EIC Accelerator Funding

UniverCell Holding GmbH, based in Flintbek, Germany, is a prominent player in the battery technology sector, specializing in the production of high-quality, custom-made battery electrodes and cells. The company received EIC Accelerator funding on November 8, 2023, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey.

Current Headcount and Team Size

As of the latest available information, UniverCell Holding GmbH employs between 51 and 200 people, reflecting its status as a growing startup in the battery technology industry.

Hiring and Team Growth

While specific details on current hiring efforts are not available, the company's strategic focus on innovation and scaling its production capabilities suggests an ongoing need for skilled talent to support its ambitious goals. The expansion of their team is crucial for driving technological advancements and meeting the increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions.

Key Positions and Recent Hires

There is no specific information available regarding recent key hires at UniverCell Holding GmbH. However, the founders, Marius Strack and Dr. Stefan Permien, are central to the company's direction and vision, emphasizing expertise in battery technology and process optimization.

Growth and Scaling

The EIC Accelerator funding will likely accelerate UniverCell's growth, enabling the company to enhance its production capacity and further develop its Gigafactory in Europe. This investment supports their vision of a future powered by renewable energies, positioning them for significant expansion in the battery technology market.

Future Implications

New team members will play a vital role in helping UniverCell scale and grow by contributing to the optimization of production processes, the development of new technologies, and the expansion of their customer base. As the company scales, it will be better equipped to meet the rising global demand for sustainable battery solutions, further establishing itself as a leader in the European battery industry.

Management and Founding Team Changes

There are no reported major changes in the management or founding team of UniverCell Holding GmbH. The founders continue to drive the company's strategic direction, with Dr. Stefan Permien serving as a key figure in the industry.

Sources

• UniverCell: Electrode and cell production Gigafactory in Europe
• UniverCell Holding GmbH - Flintbek, Germany
• Our Gigafactory for electrodes and cells in Europe - UniverCell
• International Battery Seminar

7 The Media Features and Publications

Media Coverage and Public Presence of UniverCell Holding GmbH UniverCell Holding GmbH, a German battery technology specialist, has maintained a steady presence in industry media through strategic announcements and partnerships. In May 2021, the company partnered with Boston-based Nanoramic Laboratories to commercialize Neocarbonix™ electrode technology, aiming to deliver Li-ion batteries with 30% cost and performance improvements. While no direct mentions of EIC Accelerator-related media coverage appear in available records post-2023, earlier publications highlight their role in advancing European battery manufacturing.

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Podcasts and Interviews
Dr. Stefan Permien (CEO) actively engages in technical discussions about battery innovation:

• eTech Podcast (November 2021): Permien detailed UniverCell’s electrode manufacturing processes and collaboration strategies for niche applications like medical devices and aviation.
• Startup Guide Interview (2024): He emphasized scaling challenges for European battery production and workforce advantages near Kiel’s academic institutions.

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Conference Participation
While specific conference appearances post-EIC award aren’t documented:

• Advanced Automotive Battery Conference Europe 2025: The agenda includes topics directly relevant to UniverCell’s expertise (e.g., silicon-anode commercialization), though explicit participation isn’t confirmed.
• Earlier activities focus on their Flintbek facility’s GRW-funded expansion under Germany’s regional economic programs.

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Sources

UniverCell-Nanoramic Partnership Announcement eTech Podcast with Stefan Permien Startup Guide Interview AABC Europe 2025 Agenda GRW Funding Details