Gemma Frisius Fonds NV is a venture capital firm established as a collaboration between the University of Leuven, KBC Private Equity, and Fortis Private Equity, focusing on the development of university-related spin-off companies. Founded in 1997 and based in Leuven, Belgium, the firm primarily provides first round financing, along with seed, start-up, and early-stage capital to support the growth of these companies. Additionally, it may offer second round financing to assist with their initial growth phases. The firm typically invests between €125,000 and €1 million, with an investment horizon of 7 to 10 years, concentrating its efforts in the Flanders region. In 2002, the Gemma Frisius Fund II was launched to continue the mission of its predecessor, aiming to commercialize research and knowledge developed at K.U. Leuven. The fund has a structured management approach, with projects evaluated by an advisory committee and approved by a board comprising representatives from each partner.
Augustine Therapeutics N.V., founded in 2019 and based in Gent, Belgium, focuses on developing innovative medicines for patients suffering from Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and other neuromuscular disorders. The company is engaged in two drug discovery programs aimed at identifying new generations of selective HDAC6 inhibitors, which are designed to address axonopathies, including Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. These novel compounds are intended to protect against nerve degeneration and facilitate the repair of peripheral myelin and axons. By advancing these therapeutic drugs, Augustine Therapeutics aims to enhance the quality of life for patients affected by these debilitating conditions.
Tavira Therapeutics
Pre Seed Round in 2024
Tavira Therapeutics specializes in enhancing the delivery of gene therapies using adeno-associated viruses (AAV). The company's core business involves equipping AAV vectors with specific molecules to achieve targeted and safer gene therapies, thereby advancing the field of gene medicine. Established as a spin-off from KU Leuven and Trellis, Tavira leverages cutting-edge research to develop modular AAV capsid technologies, aiming to improve existing gene therapy treatments for various genetic disorders.
Augustine Therapeutics
Series A in 2024
Augustine Therapeutics N.V., founded in 2019 and based in Gent, Belgium, focuses on developing innovative medicines for patients suffering from Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and other neuromuscular disorders. The company is engaged in two drug discovery programs aimed at identifying new generations of selective HDAC6 inhibitors, which are designed to address axonopathies, including Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. These novel compounds are intended to protect against nerve degeneration and facilitate the repair of peripheral myelin and axons. By advancing these therapeutic drugs, Augustine Therapeutics aims to enhance the quality of life for patients affected by these debilitating conditions.
Protealis
Series B in 2024
Protealis specializes in developing advanced seeds and seed technologies for legume crops, focusing on enhancing their adaptability to the European environment. The company aims to become a leading provider of germplasm for sustainable plant proteins, leveraging innovative breeding techniques and nitrogen fixation. By utilizing proprietary seed coatings and advanced breeding technologies, Protealis seeks to maximize the potential of legume crops. This approach not only helps farmers address protein deficits but also supports local sourcing for the increasing demand from producers of meat and milk alternatives.
DName-iT
Seed Round in 2023
DName-iT is a company focused on genetic analysis, providing innovative DNA-based barcode labeling technology and a software platform aimed at enhancing the reliability and cost-effectiveness of next-generation sequencing (NGS) specimen identification. The company's core product enables precise control and automation across various genetic testing applications, significantly reducing the likelihood of sample authentication errors. By confirming patient identities without the need for additional validation steps, such as SNP fingerprint testing, DName-iT streamlines the NGS workflow, making it more efficient and less time-consuming. This technology allows genetic laboratories to improve their testing processes, thereby enhancing overall operational effectiveness.
Dualyx
Series A in 2023
Dualyx specializes in the discovery and development of biological therapies aimed at treating autoimmune and rare diseases. The company focuses on creating immune modulators, particularly Treg-targeted therapies, which are designed to suppress unwanted autoimmune reactions in patients. By advancing these innovative treatments, Dualyx aims to provide lasting solutions for individuals suffering from autoimmune diseases, ultimately enabling medical professionals to offer effective cures.
MyCellHub
Funding Round in 2022
MyCellHub is a pre-startup from KULeuven focused on transforming cell production processes within the biotherapeutics industry. The company has developed a regulatory-compliant software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform that streamlines data management and analytics for laboratory and cleanroom workflows. This platform enables users to capture real-time data from multiple sources, integrating seamlessly with existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. By providing actionable insights through cell culture-specific process analytics, MyCellHub enhances manufacturing efficiency while ensuring regulatory compliance through features like real-time audit trails and automated batch records. The company's solutions aim to optimize data reporting and management, ultimately improving the overall productivity of manufacturing processes in the sector.
AstriVax
Seed Round in 2022
AstriVax is focused on developing novel vaccines that address significant challenges in the field of vaccinology. The company aims to create vaccines that minimize cold chain requirements while providing broad and long-lasting protection against a range of viruses and other pathogens. By pursuing initial clinical validation of its platform technology, AstriVax seeks to establish a comprehensive vaccination pipeline to enhance treatment options in the healthcare sector.
Aphea.Bio
Series B in 2021
Aphea.Bio focuses on developing innovative agricultural products aimed at enhancing crop health and yields. The company specializes in creating next-generation biopesticides derived from natural microorganisms, which serve as sustainable alternatives to traditional chemical pesticides facing regulatory challenges. Additionally, Aphea.Bio produces biostimulants that promote crop growth by enhancing nutrient uptake from the soil. Utilizing proprietary technologies, the company is dedicated to discovering new biocontrol and biostimulant products that help farmers sustainably manage fungal diseases, pests, and weeds, ultimately improving crop productivity and environmental health.
Aphea.Bio
Series B in 2020
Aphea.Bio focuses on developing innovative agricultural products aimed at enhancing crop health and yields. The company specializes in creating next-generation biopesticides derived from natural microorganisms, which serve as sustainable alternatives to traditional chemical pesticides facing regulatory challenges. Additionally, Aphea.Bio produces biostimulants that promote crop growth by enhancing nutrient uptake from the soil. Utilizing proprietary technologies, the company is dedicated to discovering new biocontrol and biostimulant products that help farmers sustainably manage fungal diseases, pests, and weeds, ultimately improving crop productivity and environmental health.
Runeasi
Seed Round in 2020
Runeasi specializes in wearable technology that enhances the measurement and interpretation of biomechanical data for health and performance professionals. By utilizing a single device placed on the pelvis, it captures lab-grade biomechanical metrics applicable to various activities, including walking, running, and sprinting. The company leverages artificial intelligence to analyze movement quality and deliver personalized, actionable feedback in real time. This innovative approach aids runners and athletes in avoiding injuries and supports their recovery, ultimately promoting better health and performance outcomes for both recreational and elite sports participants.
ViroVet
Series B in 2020
ViroVet is an innovative company focused on developing groundbreaking technologies to combat viral diseases in livestock, particularly through antiviral drugs targeting respiratory disease complexes and novel vaccines for swine. The livestock industry, valued at over 100 billion euros, faces significant financial losses due to viral diseases, which threaten global animal protein supplies. ViroVet aims to supply livestock producers, national governments, and international organizations with comprehensive solutions that can be used independently or alongside existing vaccines and biosecurity measures. With the growing world population and increased demand for protein, the risk of viral disease spread in densely populated livestock environments is rising. ViroVet has garnered support from key opinion leaders in livestock medicine, who recognize the potential of its products to reduce antibiotic use and transform the industry. Through its innovative approach, ViroVet addresses urgent challenges posed by endemic and epizootic viral diseases, ultimately aiming to enhance the resilience of the livestock sector.
Augustine Therapeutics
Seed Round in 2019
Augustine Therapeutics N.V., founded in 2019 and based in Gent, Belgium, focuses on developing innovative medicines for patients suffering from Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and other neuromuscular disorders. The company is engaged in two drug discovery programs aimed at identifying new generations of selective HDAC6 inhibitors, which are designed to address axonopathies, including Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. These novel compounds are intended to protect against nerve degeneration and facilitate the repair of peripheral myelin and axons. By advancing these therapeutic drugs, Augustine Therapeutics aims to enhance the quality of life for patients affected by these debilitating conditions.
MyCellHub
Seed Round in 2019
MyCellHub is a pre-startup from KULeuven focused on transforming cell production processes within the biotherapeutics industry. The company has developed a regulatory-compliant software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform that streamlines data management and analytics for laboratory and cleanroom workflows. This platform enables users to capture real-time data from multiple sources, integrating seamlessly with existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. By providing actionable insights through cell culture-specific process analytics, MyCellHub enhances manufacturing efficiency while ensuring regulatory compliance through features like real-time audit trails and automated batch records. The company's solutions aim to optimize data reporting and management, ultimately improving the overall productivity of manufacturing processes in the sector.
ArtiQ
Seed Round in 2019
ArtiQ is an innovative spin-off from the University of Leuven, founded in early 2019 by a team with extensive experience in respiratory medicine, medical devices, and artificial intelligence. The company focuses on developing AI-backed software to support medical professionals in diagnosing, treating, and monitoring patients with lung diseases. By automating the interpretation of pulmonary function tests, ArtiQ's technology enhances the accuracy and efficiency of the diagnostic process, facilitating the early detection of disease patterns. This approach not only aids healthcare practitioners in making informed decisions but also aims to improve the overall environment for lung disease diagnostics, ultimately benefiting patients and the healthcare system. ArtiQ aspires to be a trusted partner for medical practitioners in addressing respiratory issues.
Elimity
Seed Round in 2019
Elimity eliminates identity-based risks and implements mature identity governance. They use an extensive library of pre-built integrations. They enable users to quickly collect data from all of their cloud and on-premise applications and services. They wants to make it possible for businesses to secure and manage the complex environment of today without sacrificing security or productivity.
reMYND
Venture Round in 2018
reMYND NV is a biotechnology company based in Leuven, Belgium, focused on developing disease-modifying treatments for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, diabetes, and other protein-misfolding disorders. The company is advancing several investigational compounds, including ReS19-T for Alzheimer’s and ReS39 for diabetes, as well as ReS3-T, which targets neuronal hyperactivity associated with Alzheimer’s and epilepsy. Additionally, reMYND operates a phenotypic screening platform aimed at discovering small molecule treatments that mitigate the toxicity of misfolded proteins such as Tau and Synuclein. The company also functions as a contract research organization (CRO), providing services that assess the in-vivo characteristics and effects of experimental therapies using proprietary mouse models. This CRO capability has enabled reMYND to support various pharmaceutical clients, including major companies in the United States, Europe, and Japan, by delivering critical proof-of-concept data for drugs in clinical development. Established in 2002, reMYND is committed to addressing the challenges posed by protein misfolding diseases through innovative research and development.
VersaSense
Seed Round in 2018
VersaSense is a company based in Leuven, Belgium, that specializes in wireless fabric solutions for industrial sensing and control systems. Its platform integrates software, networking, and hardware components to enable reliable connections between assets and cloud analytics platforms. This technology serves various sectors, including industrial, consumer goods, technology, and agriculture, facilitating the secure delivery of sensor data to IoT platforms and enterprise systems. VersaSense also provides professional services, support, and integration to help clients optimize their infrastructure and reduce the total cost of ownership associated with their sensing and control systems.
Zeopore
Seed Round in 2018
Zeopore Technologies NV, founded in 2017 and based in Leuven, Belgium, specializes in producing mesoporous zeolite for the refining and petrochemical industries. The company focuses on developing mesoporisation technologies that enhance efficiency in catalytic refining processes. Zeopore offers a range of products and services, including zeolite catalysts, catalysis, post-synthetic modification, and molecular sieve solutions. Their advanced technology aims to provide next-generation zeolite catalysts that improve performance while reducing costs for clients involved in petrochemical conversions, bio-renewable feeds, and plastic waste conversion.
UgenTec
Series A in 2018
UgenTec, based in Hasselt, is a rapidly growing company that specializes in developing software for molecular diagnostics. The company offers an independent diagnostic platform that supports molecular laboratories in analyzing DNA through real-time PCR technology. UgenTec's software automates the interpretation of PCR assays, enabling lab technicians to significantly reduce analysis time from 1.5 hours to just 3 minutes without the need for extensive training. This advancement not only boosts laboratory efficiency but also enhances diagnostic reliability for patients. UgenTec's innovative approach has garnered multiple awards and recognitions, reflecting its commitment to improving laboratory workflows and outcomes in the field of molecular diagnostics.
REIN4CED
Seed Round in 2017
REIN4CED specializes in the development of a fiber-strengthened composite material designed to enhance the performance of bicycle frames. By combining carbon composites with specially engineered steel fibers, the company creates a material that offers superior impact resistance while maintaining high stiffness and low weight. This innovative approach allows for the production of durable and lightweight bicycle frames, providing cyclists with enhanced safety and longevity in their equipment.
Aphea.Bio
Series A in 2017
Aphea.Bio focuses on developing innovative agricultural products aimed at enhancing crop health and yields. The company specializes in creating next-generation biopesticides derived from natural microorganisms, which serve as sustainable alternatives to traditional chemical pesticides facing regulatory challenges. Additionally, Aphea.Bio produces biostimulants that promote crop growth by enhancing nutrient uptake from the soil. Utilizing proprietary technologies, the company is dedicated to discovering new biocontrol and biostimulant products that help farmers sustainably manage fungal diseases, pests, and weeds, ultimately improving crop productivity and environmental health.
InOpSys
Seed Round in 2015
InOpSys NV is a company based in Mechelen, Belgium, that focuses on the development and construction of flexible, modular, and mobile units for onsite treatment of toxic wastewater. The company specializes in providing sustainable solutions for the purification of industrial wastewater streams, particularly for the chemical and pharmaceutical sectors. By enabling the recovery of water and raw materials for reuse, InOpSys contributes to improved water quality and assists industries in achieving their sustainability objectives.
TrendMiner
Series B in 2015
TrendMiner, established in 2008 and headquartered in Belgium with global offices, specializes in advanced industrial analytics. Its platform facilitates real-time monitoring and troubleshooting of industrial processes, empowering users to make data-driven decisions efficiently. The company offers robust data collection, analysis, and visualization, fostering innovation, optimization, and sustainable growth. TrendMiner partners with major industry players like Amazon, Microsoft, SAP, and Siemens, and integrates with various data historians.
Porphyrio
Series A in 2014
Porphyrio NV is a Belgium-based company that specializes in providing intelligent management systems for poultry farming, focusing on egg and broiler production. Its flagship products, Lay-Insight and Broiler-Insight, are designed to assist farm managers in the day-to-day operations by utilizing real-time data and advanced statistical algorithms. These systems enhance operational efficiency by transforming sensor data into actionable insights, enabling proactive decision-making and predictive analysis. Porphyrio's technology also includes features such as access control and video surveillance, and it can integrate with external ERP systems. The company serves a diverse range of poultry, including breeders, broilers, laying hens, and turkeys. As of November 2018, Porphyrio operates as a subsidiary of Evonik Industries AG.
Cartagenia
Venture Round in 2014
Cartagenia specializes in providing software and services for clinical genetics and molecular pathology laboratories. The company offers a platform designed for the assessment and reporting of clinical genomics data derived from next-generation sequencing and microarrays. This platform facilitates the visualization, assessment, and reporting of genetic data in relation to patient information, enabling genetic labs and clinicians to conduct clinically relevant analyses efficiently. By improving the speed and quality of genetic interpretation and counseling, Cartagenia aims to enhance the overall experience for patients and caregivers.
Trod Medical
Series B in 2013
Trod Medical S.A. is a medical device manufacturer founded in 2006, with headquarters in Leuven, Belgium, and the Tampa Bay area, USA. The company specializes in innovative ablation technologies, particularly in developing radiofrequency (RF) ablation devices. One of its key products, the EncageTM, is a percutaneous RF device designed to precisely ablate soft tissues, minimizing collateral damage during procedures. This technology is particularly significant in the treatment of prostate cancer, a prevalent condition with approximately 240,000 new cases diagnosed annually in the United States. Traditional treatments often lead to severe side effects, such as erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence, highlighting the importance of Trod Medical's advancements. The company's devices enable healthcare providers to perform endoscopic surgeries with predictable ablation volumes and reduced tissue damage, aiming to improve patient outcomes in a critical area of medical care.
Complix
Series B in 2013
Complix is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery and development of Alphabodies™, a new class of therapeutics designed to target challenging disease targets. These Alphabodies™ exhibit high affinity for a variety of disease targets, particularly those that are difficult to access with traditional antibodies or other protein-based therapies. The unique stability and versatility of Alphabodies™ allow for alternative non-injectable delivery methods, enhancing their potential in therapeutic applications. The company's pipeline focuses on intracellular targets significant in cancer, autoimmunity, and viral diseases, aiming to combine the effectiveness of biologics with the cell-penetrating capabilities and stability characteristic of small molecules.
Cartagenia
Venture Round in 2011
Cartagenia specializes in providing software and services for clinical genetics and molecular pathology laboratories. The company offers a platform designed for the assessment and reporting of clinical genomics data derived from next-generation sequencing and microarrays. This platform facilitates the visualization, assessment, and reporting of genetic data in relation to patient information, enabling genetic labs and clinicians to conduct clinically relevant analyses efficiently. By improving the speed and quality of genetic interpretation and counseling, Cartagenia aims to enhance the overall experience for patients and caregivers.
TrendMiner
Series A in 2010
TrendMiner, established in 2008 and headquartered in Belgium with global offices, specializes in advanced industrial analytics. Its platform facilitates real-time monitoring and troubleshooting of industrial processes, empowering users to make data-driven decisions efficiently. The company offers robust data collection, analysis, and visualization, fostering innovation, optimization, and sustainable growth. TrendMiner partners with major industry players like Amazon, Microsoft, SAP, and Siemens, and integrates with various data historians.
Aristo Music Technology
Venture Round in 2008
Aristo Music NV develops selection and distribution techniques and technologies for digital music and provides music related services. The company also develops various Internet applications, which include a Web radio that consists of a musical database. It serves catering, retail, business, leisure, and government markets. The company is based in Heverlee, Belgium.
Formac Pharmaceuticals
Venture Round in 2007
Formac Pharmaceuticals is a spin-off from the University of Leuven in Belgium, established on October 3, 2007. The company specializes in developing a drug delivery platform that utilizes ordered mesoporous silica materials to enhance the formulation of poorly soluble active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Formac's innovative approach significantly improves the oral bioavailability of these challenging compounds, which is critical for effective treatment. Since its inception, the company has secured over 40 feasibility agreements with leading pharmaceutical firms and small- to medium-sized enterprises in both human and veterinary medicine. Formac is recognized as the only company to have demonstrated the clinical relevance of its silica-based technology in a clinical setting, highlighting its commitment to advancing drug delivery solutions. The main shareholders include K.U.Leuven, Allegro Investment Fund, Hunza Ventures, and others, reflecting a strong foundation in academic and investment support.
AlgoNomics
Venture Round in 2007
AlgoNomics is a Belgium-based biotech company specializing in structural bioinformatics services aimed at developing rationally designed therapeutics, particularly in the field of immunotherapy. The company possesses a proprietary platform that includes advanced tools for analyzing protein-protein and protein-peptide interactions. Its flagship product, the Epibase platform, focuses on T-cell epitope identification across diverse population groups, facilitating the discovery of vaccines and therapeutic proteins. By providing comprehensive immunogenicity screening services, AlgoNomics supports the development of biotherapeutics designed to enhance immune responses.
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