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VALCUN BV

VALCUN BV Secures EIC Accelerator Funding to Advance Aluminum Additive Manufacturing Technology

BelgiumEIC Accelerator2023

Table of Contents

  1. The EIC Accelerator Project
  2. The Funding Rounds
  3. The Press Releases
  4. The Technology Advancements
  5. The Partnerships and Customers
  6. The Hiring and Company Growth
  7. The Media Features and Publications

1 The EIC Accelerator Project

EIC Accelerator Program Overview

The EIC Accelerator, part of the European Innovation Council (EIC), is designed to support innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups, particularly within the DeepTech sector. This initiative aims to foster the development and scaling of high-impact technologies that can contribute to the competitiveness of the European economy. The program provides a unique funding opportunity through a combination of grants and equity investments.

Funding Structure

The EIC Accelerator offers blended finance, which includes:

1. Grant Funding: Eligible companies can receive grants of up to €2.5 million. This non-repayable funding is intended to support the development of innovative products or services, covering costs associated with prototype development, market entry, and scaling.
2. Equity Investment: The equity component can reach up to €15 million until 2024, and this is reduced to a maximum of €10 million starting in 2025. This investment is provided in exchange for a share in the company, thereby aligning the interests of the EIC and the recipient enterprise. The equity funding is crucial for companies aiming to scale operations and attract further investments from private sectors.

Purpose and Impact

The EIC Accelerator plays a critical role in the European startup ecosystem by providing not only financial support but also strategic guidance and networking opportunities. By bridging the gap between early-stage innovation and market readiness, the program facilitates the commercialization of groundbreaking technologies. It enhances the ability of SMEs and startups to attract private investments by validating their business models and technological feasibility, making them more appealing to potential investors.

VALCUN BV and the MMD Project

Company Overview

VALCUN BV, based in Belgium, has emerged as a prominent player in the field of additive manufacturing, specifically focusing on aluminum technologies. The company aims to revolutionize the production processes within the sector through innovative solutions.

Project MMD: Unlocking Serial Aluminium Additive Manufacturing

The project, known as MMD (Molten Metal Deposition), was submitted as a Step 2 proposal to the EIC Accelerator, with the final interview taking place on June 21, 2023. The MMD project aims to unlock the potential of serial aluminum additive manufacturing through a novel technology that utilizes molten metal deposition.

Technology Basics and Background

The Molten Metal Deposition technology represents a significant advancement in additive manufacturing. Traditional methods of aluminum manufacturing often face challenges such as material limitations, production speed, and cost-effectiveness. VALCUN's MMD technology addresses these issues by employing a unique approach to aluminum processing.

  • Process Overview: MMD leverages a proprietary technique that allows for the deposition of molten aluminum in a controlled environment, enabling the creation of complex geometric shapes with high precision. This method contrasts sharply with conventional additive manufacturing processes that typically involve layer-by-layer construction, which can be time-consuming and limited in terms of material properties.
  • Advantages: The MMD technology offers numerous advantages, including enhanced mechanical properties of the finished products, reduced material wastage, and increased production speed. This positions VALCUN to cater to industries that require rapid prototyping and production of high-quality aluminum components, such as aerospace, automotive, and tooling sectors.
  • Market Relevance: The global shift towards lightweight materials in manufacturing underscores the growing demand for efficient aluminum processing technologies. VALCUN's MMD project is well-timed to meet this demand, providing manufacturers with innovative solutions that not only enhance their product offerings but also contribute to sustainability by reducing waste.

Conclusion

The EIC Accelerator serves as a vital mechanism for nurturing innovative companies like VALCUN BV, enabling them to transform their groundbreaking ideas into market-ready solutions. The MMD project exemplifies the potential of additive manufacturing technologies to redefine production paradigms in the aluminum sector. With the support of the EIC Accelerator, VALCUN is poised to make significant strides in the industry, further solidifying its position as a leader in advanced manufacturing solutions. For more information, VALCUN BV can be visited at valcun.be.

2 The Funding Rounds

# ValCUN BV: Funding Journey and Financial Growth

ValCUN BV, a Belgian startup specializing in Molten Metal Deposition (MMD) technology, has secured significant funding through various rounds to develop its innovative metal 3D printing solutions. The company has successfully positioned itself in the additive manufacturing market with technology that promises cost reductions of 75-90% compared to other metal AM technologies.

EIC Accelerator Funding

In June 2023, ValCUN was selected as one of 47 companies to receive funding from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program. The company was among four Flanders-based businesses chosen in this competitive funding round where the EIC distributed a total of €349 million to innovative European startups.

The EIC funding package for ValCUN consisted of: - A €2.5 million grant

  • An option to receive up to €5 million in additional equity funding
  • This blended finance approach is typical of the EIC Accelerator program, which often combines grants with equity investments through the EIC Fund. The funding was officially announced in November 2023, following ValCUN's successful application in the June 2023 cut-off.

    Previous Funding Round

    Before securing the EIC Accelerator funding, ValCUN had already raised capital:

  • In March 2021, the company closed a €1.5 million financing round with participation from PMV, VLAIO, and private investors
  • This initial funding was crucial for the early development of ValCUN's plasma metal 3D printing technology, which was described as potentially disruptive due to its ability to use cheaper materials than conventional metal 3D printing powders.

    Funding Utilization

    ValCUN has been strategically using its funding to:

    1. Advance Technology Development: Enhancing the MMD technology through hardware modifications, software development, and materials research
    2. Scale Production Capabilities: Building infrastructure to increase manufacturing capacity
    3. Market Expansion: Forging strategic partnerships and participating in industry events to facilitate adoption of their technology

    Recent Developments

    The company has made significant progress in commercializing its technology:

    • Recently showcased its Minerva Printer and Minerva Printhead at Formnext, both utilizing the proprietary MMD technology
    • Received its first order for the Minerva Printer from Sirris, a Belgian research center
    • Focused on enhancing the industrial usability, quality, and ecological footprint of MMD technology

    Company Valuation and Exit Events

    Public information regarding ValCUN's current valuation or any planned exit events such as IPOs or acquisition opportunities is not available in the search results. As a relatively early-stage company still receiving development funding, ValCUN appears to be focused on technology advancement and market penetration rather than immediate exit strategies.

    Jonas Galle, CEO of ValCUN, has expressed that the EIC funding will help the company "push the boundaries of what's achievable in the world of Advanced Manufacturing," indicating a current focus on growth and innovation rather than exit planning.

    Sources: - ValCUN secures €2.5M European Innovation Council grant for sustainable MMD technology

    3 The Press Releases

    ValCUN BV, a Belgian company specializing in Molten Metal Deposition (MMD) technology, received European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding following their Step 2 proposal submission on June 21, 2023. Since then, ValCUN has made significant progress in advancing their additive manufacturing technology and expanding its industrial applicability.

    Key Developments and Press Release Contents

    EIC Funding and Financial Support

  • ValCUN was awarded a €2.5 million grant from the EIC with the option to receive an additional €5 million in equity funding to further develop their proprietary MMD technology.
  • Technological Advancements

    • ValCUN has refined multiple aspects of its MMD technology under the EIC project:
    • Hardware enhancements aimed at improving print quality and machine reliability.
    • Software development including advanced toolpath algorithms and AI-driven process parameter prediction to boost operational efficiency.
    • Materials research focusing on industrially relevant materials for aluminum parts production.
    • The MMD process is characterized as a single-step metal deposition method using metal wire feedstock that melts aluminum filament inside a heating chamber before extruding liquid metal through a nozzle. This process significantly reduces costs by 75% to 90% compared to other metal additive manufacturing technologies due to energy efficiency, waste reduction, and elimination of toxic chemicals or powders.

    Sustainability Impact

  • The project promotes sustainability by encouraging use of recycled materials, minimizing waste during production, optimizing parts for weight and strength while reducing energy consumption. These efforts aim at making manufacturing more cost-effective as well as environmentally friendly.
  • Commercialization Efforts & Partnerships

    • ValCUN has formed strategic partnerships with industry players to pilot MMD technology in real-world settings facilitating market entry strategies.
    • They have showcased products such as the Minerva Printer and Minerva Printhead employing MMD specifically designed for aluminum industry applications.
    • Their first order for the Minerva Printer was placed by Sirris, a Belgian research center known for innovation support.

    Dissemination Activities

    • The company actively participates in major additive manufacturing events.
    • Collaborations with academic institutions support ongoing R&D efforts aimed at refining the technology further and fostering industry adoption.

    Team Updates & Company Positioning

    While specific team updates or new patents were not detailed explicitly in available sources since receiving EIC funding, CEO Jonas Galle publicly emphasized commitment towards enabling sustainable metal manufacturing solutions powered by this innovative technology supported via EIC backing. This signals strategic leadership focus on scaling commercialization.

    Summary

    Since winning EIC Accelerator funding after submitting their Step 2 proposal on June 21, 2023:

    • ValCUN BV has leveraged up to €7.5 million total potential investment from EIC (grant plus equity).
    • Advanced hardware/software/materials aspects of Molten Metal Deposition additive manufacturing targeting the aluminum industry.
    • Promoted sustainability through reduced waste/energy use/recycled material integration.
    • Established key partnerships including first commercial orders like one from Sirris research center.
    • Engaged actively with academia/industry events for knowledge dissemination.

    These developments indicate strong momentum towards industrial adoption of ValCUN’s disruptive molten metal additive manufacturing solution aiming at substantial impact within global lightweight metals production sectors.


    Sources:

    4 The Technology Advancements

    ValCUN BV, a Belgian company specializing in metal additive manufacturing (AM), has significantly advanced its proprietary Molten Metal Deposition (MMD) technology since receiving the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding on June 21, 2023.

    Current Capabilities

    ValCUN develops and manufactures metal AM machines based on its patented MMD technology. This technology uses a single-step process where commercially available metal wire—particularly aluminum—is melted and extruded layer-by-layer to build parts. The key advantages include:

    • Cost reduction of 75% to over 90% compared to other metal AM technologies
    • Energy-efficient and sustainable production with minimized waste
    • Elimination of toxic powders or chemicals common in powder bed fusion processes
    • No need for post-processing steps like debinding, sintering, powder removal, or Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP)
    • Machines designed for ease of adoption: compact enough to fit through standard doorways and operable with standard electrical outlets worldwide.

    Advancements Since EIC Funding

    Since securing €2.5 million in grant funding plus potential equity investment from the EIC Accelerator program in late 2023, ValCUN has made important technological progress:

    • Hardware enhancements improving print quality and machine reliability.
    • Software development including advanced toolpath algorithms and AI-driven parameter prediction software that increase operational efficiency and predictability.
    • Materials research focused on broadening industrial applicability with desired materials.

    These improvements are part of an ongoing project titled "Project MMD - ValCUN," aimed at enhancing industrial usability, part quality, ecological footprint, scalability of production capabilities, and accelerating industry adoption through partnerships.

    Market Demonstrations & Customer Engagements

    ValCUN sold its first Minerva printer—a machine based on MMD technology—to Sirris, a leading Belgian research center specialized in innovation support. Having their equipment installed at Sirris enables real-world piloting that informs further product refinement.

    In early 2025, ValCUN plans to move into a larger facility near Ghent to accommodate growth driven by increased demand. The company also expanded its team across business development and engineering functions to support this scale-up phase.

    In March 2025 they officially opened this new production facility during an event attended by professionals from industry partners such as the European-funded 3DoP consortium. Live demonstrations were conducted showcasing their proprietary molten metal printing process alongside expert presentations covering economic benefits as well as integration into industrial workflows.

    Additionally:

    • ValCUN joined the Brainport Industry Campus AMcubator in Eindhoven aiming at fostering scaling applications within the Benelux region.
    • The company continues active participation at major trade shows like Formnext where it exhibits both hardware products—the Minerva printer—and disseminates knowledge about MMD technology.

    Intellectual Property & Publications

    While there is no direct mention of newly filed patents post-EIC funding specifically available publicly from these sources up until May 2025 data cutoff,

    ValCUN’s core MMD technology remains patented.

    They have engaged actively in dissemination via targeted industry publications conferences including collaborations with academic institutions—indicative of whitepapers or scientific communications being produced though not explicitly cited here—and strategic partnerships facilitating pilot projects that validate market readiness.


    Summary

    Since receiving EIC Accelerator funding mid-2023 valued initially at €2.5 million grant plus possible equity investments totaling up to €7.5 million combined financing,

    ValCUN BV has:

    • Improved its molten metal deposition hardware/software substantially,
    • Expanded market presence by delivering printers such as Minerva for pilot usage,
    • Opened new larger manufacturing facilities,
    • Strengthened R&D collaborations,
    and demonstrated clear progress toward scalable industrial deployment while maintaining strong sustainability credentials inherent to their process.

    Their innovative wire-fed molten aluminum extrusion approach positions them uniquely within the competitive landscape by offering user-friendly plug-and-play solutions geared towards cost-effective series production for aluminum parts across industries.


    Sources

    5 The Partnerships and Customers

    VALCUN BV's Strategic Partnerships and Market Positioning Post-EIC Accelerator Funding ValCUN BV, a Belgian additive manufacturing innovator, has leveraged its EIC Accelerator support to forge strategic relationships aimed at industrial adoption and technological advancement. Below is an analysis of its partnerships, customers, and market strategy:

    Key Partners and Customers

    • Sirris: The Belgian research organization became ValCUN's first customer for its Minerva 3D printer. This collaboration aims to validate MMD (Molten Metal Deposition) technology in real-world industrial applications while providing feedback for further development.
    • Academic Institutions: ValCUN actively collaborates with universities to refine use cases for aluminum parts, focusing on heat exchangers, catalytic converters, and lightweight structures.
    • Industry Pilots: The company is engaging workshops across Belgium to demonstrate cost-effective metal AM solutions tailored for small-scale manufacturing environments.

    Nature of Relationships

    • Technology Validation: Partnerships with Sirris and academic institutions focus on testing MMD’s capabilities in structural components, heat management systems, and electromagnetic-compatible enclosures.
    • Market Education: By targeting workshops unfamiliar with traditional metal AM methods, ValCUN aims to democratize access to deployable 3D printing solutions.

    Market Positioning

    ValCUN emphasizes affordability (75–90% cost reduction compared to conventional methods), ease of deployment (fits through standard doorways), and compatibility with recycled materials as key differentiators. Its partnerships position it as a pioneer in:
    • Distributed Manufacturing: Minerva’s compact design enables on-demand part production closer to end-users.
    • Sustainable Manufacturing: Focus on reducing material waste via near-net-shape deposition and energy-efficient processes aligns with EU industrial sustainability goals.

    Impact on Technology Advancement & Scaling

    Collaborations are accelerating:
    1. Hardware/Software Refinements: Feedback from pilot partners has driven improvements in print quality via enhanced toolpath algorithms and AI-driven parameter optimization.
    2. Material Research: Alliances facilitate testing new alloys like copper-magnesium composites while validating recycled aluminum usability.

    By targeting academic-to-industrial pipelines early—with plans for 600+ installations by 2030—ValCUN aims for seamless scaling into aerospace, automotive repair sectors where aluminum dominates supply chains.


    Sources: Valcun.be | Metal AM | 3DPrintingIndustry | Interview: Jonas Galle| Project MMD - EIC Accelerator| Sirris Collaboration Article

    6 The Hiring and Company Growth

    ValCUN BV: Expansion and Team Growth

    ValCUN BV, a Belgian company specializing in aluminum additive manufacturing, has experienced significant growth and expansion since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in June 2023.

    Current Team Size and Hiring

    As of the latest information, ValCUN has a small team size, with reports indicating between 2-10 employees. The company has been actively hiring to support its growth, particularly in areas such as business development, research engineering, and office management.

    Recent Hires and Positions

    ValCUN has recently strengthened its team by adding key personnel across various departments. These strategic hires are crucial for supporting the company's growth phase and enhancing its capabilities in metal additive manufacturing.

    Growth and Expansion

    ValCUN's expansion plans include relocating to a larger facility in the Ghent area by early 2025. This move aims to accommodate the company's projected growth and further develop its product range and capabilities. The company's proprietary Molten Metal Deposition (MMD) technology offers a cost-effective solution for metal additive manufacturing, reducing costs by 75-90% compared to other technologies, which is a significant factor in its growth strategy.

    Impact of New Team Members

    The addition of new team members is pivotal for ValCUN's future growth. These hires bring essential skills that were previously lacking, ensuring the company can enter a new phase of development and maintain exponential growth. The new facility and expanded team will provide ValCUN with the necessary infrastructure to scale its operations and enhance its presence in the metal additive manufacturing sector.

    Management Changes

    There are no reported changes in ValCUN's founding team or management structure. The company continues to be led by CEO Jonas Galle, who has been instrumental in driving ValCUN's growth and expansion initiatives.

    Current Hiring Status

    ValCUN is currently hiring to support its business growth and relocation plans. However, specific job listings or open positions are not detailed in the available information.

    Future Outlook

    With its innovative MMD technology and expanded team, ValCUN is well-positioned to scale its operations and contribute significantly to the metal additive manufacturing industry. The company's focus on deployable and cost-effective solutions aligns with the broader industry need for accessible and efficient manufacturing technologies.

    Sources: - ValCUN Expands Team and Plans Relocation to Support Business Growth

    7 The Media Features and Publications

    Overview of VALCUN BV

    VALCUN BV is a Belgian startup known for pioneering in aluminum 3D printing technology. The company has developed a disruptive metal additive manufacturing process called Molten Metal Deposition (MMD), which is designed to be deployable, cost-effective, and sustainable. This technology aims to revolutionize the manufacturing sector by making metal additive manufacturing economically competitive.

    Media Features and Publications

    VALCUN BV has been featured in various platforms for its innovative approach to metal additive manufacturing. However, specific media publications or articles directly naming VALCUN are not widely available in the current search results. The company's presence is noted in industry directories and startup competitions, highlighting its potential in disrupting traditional metal printing technologies.

    Content from Publications

    Publications and directories emphasize VALCUN's focus on developing a fast and affordable metal 3D printing technology, which is crucial for mass production. This technology is particularly noted for its potential in near-net-shape products and heat exchangers for electric vehicles and ICT infrastructure.

    Podcasts or Interviews

    Currently, there are no specific podcasts or interviews available in the search results that feature the team of VALCUN BV.

    Conference and Fair Visits

    VALCUN BV is listed as an exhibitor at notable industry events such as Formnext, a leading exhibition for additive manufacturing. This participation highlights the company's involvement in showcasing its innovative technology to a broader audience.

    Involvement in Events

    The company's participation in events like Formnext underscores its commitment to engaging with the additive manufacturing community. While specific presentations or conferences where VALCUN BV has presented are not detailed in the available search results, their involvement in such events signifies their role in promoting sustainable manufacturing practices.

    EIC Accelerator Funding

    VALCUN BV received EIC Accelerator funding in June 2023, following a successful Step 2 proposal and Step 3 interview. This funding acknowledges the company's potential to transform the metal additive manufacturing landscape.

    Conclusion

    VALCUN BV is a dynamic startup with a focus on revolutionizing metal 3D printing through its innovative Molten Metal Deposition technology. While specific media articles or podcasts featuring the company are not readily available, its participation in industry events and recognition through funding highlight its importance in the additive manufacturing sector.

    Sources

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