Fraunhofer Venture

Fraunhofer Venture is the venture capital arm of Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der angewandten Forschung e.V., established in 1999 and located in Munich, Germany. The firm specializes in incubation, pre-seed investments, and the support of start-ups and spin-offs across various sectors, including cleantech, life sciences, energy, information technology, manufacturing, microelectronics, transport, and materials. By collaborating with founders, start-ups, Fraunhofer institutes, and investors, Fraunhofer Venture leverages over 4,500 patent classes and extensive technological infrastructure to facilitate the rapid development and market entry of new products. The firm typically invests for a duration of up to one year.

Matthias Keckl

Investment Manager

Markus Weitzel

Investment Manager

42 past transactions

Threedy

Series A in 2024
Threedy GmbH, founded in 2020 and based in Darmstadt, Germany, specializes in providing the instant3Dhub platform, which supports high-performance visual computing for various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and energy. This cloud-native platform facilitates the visualization of large data sets and enables the development of responsive and interactive 3D applications. Key features of instant3Dhub include a 3D streaming architecture, integrated 3D Spaces for contextual sharing, and a unified application programming interface that connects business data and sensors. By leveraging 3D data models, Threedy aims to drive digital innovation in products, services, and business processes, ultimately simplifying operations and reducing costs for its clients.

Dioxycle

Non Equity Assistance in 2023
Dioxycle focuses on developing innovative technology for the conversion of carbon dioxide emissions into valuable chemical products. The company utilizes electricity-driven processes to transform carbon dioxide into a resource, enabling the production of everyday items while reducing reliance on fossil feedstocks like carbon monoxide, methane, and hydrocarbons. By offering solutions for industrial carbon dioxide emissions, Dioxycle aims to contribute to environmental sustainability and the transition towards cleaner energy sources.

Cellbox Solutions

Series A in 2023
Cellbox Solutions is a technology company that specializes in innovative logistical solutions for the global BioMed industry. The company has developed a carbon dioxide incubator aimed at enhancing the storage, isolation, handling, and analysis of biological materials. This incubator supports the proper management of living cells, facilitating their storage, reproduction, transportation, and analysis. By enabling the safe transport of living cells via roads, rails, or airways, Cellbox Solutions assists healthcare providers in their efforts to deliver advanced therapies and improve patient treatment outcomes.

Tool Detective

Pre Seed Round in 2022
We provide predictive maintenance for manufacturing industry checking metal cutting tool's wear during each cycle of machining, using a computer vision based on deep learning algorithm that segments the wear of the tool image to approve the continuation to optimize life-time or request change to a new one. While keeping the data and showing dashboards of tool wearing, to help purchase planning.

Tool Detective

Pre Seed Round in 2022
We provide predictive maintenance for manufacturing industry checking metal cutting tool's wear during each cycle of machining, using a computer vision based on deep learning algorithm that segments the wear of the tool image to approve the continuation to optimize life-time or request change to a new one. While keeping the data and showing dashboards of tool wearing, to help purchase planning.

NexWafe

Series B in 2021
NexWafe GmbH, founded in 2015 and based in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany, specializes in the manufacturing and supply of monocrystalline silicon wafers for solar cell producers. The company employs a continuous, direct gas-to-wafer manufacturing process that minimizes waste, resulting in wafers that are both more efficient and less expensive than conventional options. These high-quality wafers are fully compatible with standard cell and module fabrication, allowing solar cell manufacturers to enhance their production capabilities while significantly reducing costs. NexWafe's innovative approach contributes to the advancement of sustainable energy by facilitating the transition to more affordable green solar technology.

HYGEN

Seed Round in 2019
HYGEN is a developer of innovative home fueling appliances aimed at transforming the conventional gas distribution grid into a decentralized refueling infrastructure for gas-powered vehicles. Their patented liquid piston gas compression technology enhances the efficiency of gaseous fuel compression and eliminates issues such as maintenance and breakdowns. This technology allows for the rapid refueling of vehicles in just three minutes, making it a convenient option for users at home or in offices. By providing a low-cost solution for at-home fueling, HYGEN enhances the appeal of natural gas vehicles, positioning them similarly to electric vehicles. The company enables gas utilities to tap into the transportation fuel market, offering carbon-neutral and economical biomethane directly to consumers. As a result, HYGEN not only extends the service life of their appliances significantly but also reduces the total cost of ownership, creating a new segment within the gas industry focused on clean and affordable fuel delivery.

Volterion

Non Equity Assistance in 2017
Volterion GmbH, established in 2015 and based in Dortmund, Germany, specializes in the manufacturing and sale of compact redox flow batteries for residential energy storage, primarily for renewable energy sources. The company produces redox flow stacks, modules, and systems, utilizing a unique, patented manufacturing process for weldable bipolar-graphite-electrodes. Volterion's innovative energy systems, such as the powerRFB, cater to diverse industrial applications and meet high-demand standards. The company's technology and business model have been recognized with several awards, including the ACHEMA Energy Founders Award and the TU Startup Award.

Volterion

Seed Round in 2017
Volterion GmbH, established in 2015 and based in Dortmund, Germany, specializes in the manufacturing and sale of compact redox flow batteries for residential energy storage, primarily for renewable energy sources. The company produces redox flow stacks, modules, and systems, utilizing a unique, patented manufacturing process for weldable bipolar-graphite-electrodes. Volterion's innovative energy systems, such as the powerRFB, cater to diverse industrial applications and meet high-demand standards. The company's technology and business model have been recognized with several awards, including the ACHEMA Energy Founders Award and the TU Startup Award.

Volterion

Seed Round in 2016
Volterion GmbH, established in 2015 and based in Dortmund, Germany, specializes in the manufacturing and sale of compact redox flow batteries for residential energy storage, primarily for renewable energy sources. The company produces redox flow stacks, modules, and systems, utilizing a unique, patented manufacturing process for weldable bipolar-graphite-electrodes. Volterion's innovative energy systems, such as the powerRFB, cater to diverse industrial applications and meet high-demand standards. The company's technology and business model have been recognized with several awards, including the ACHEMA Energy Founders Award and the TU Startup Award.

Volterion

Seed Round in 2015
Volterion GmbH, established in 2015 and based in Dortmund, Germany, specializes in the manufacturing and sale of compact redox flow batteries for residential energy storage, primarily for renewable energy sources. The company produces redox flow stacks, modules, and systems, utilizing a unique, patented manufacturing process for weldable bipolar-graphite-electrodes. Volterion's innovative energy systems, such as the powerRFB, cater to diverse industrial applications and meet high-demand standards. The company's technology and business model have been recognized with several awards, including the ACHEMA Energy Founders Award and the TU Startup Award.

NexWafe

Seed Round in 2015
NexWafe GmbH, founded in 2015 and based in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany, specializes in the manufacturing and supply of monocrystalline silicon wafers for solar cell producers. The company employs a continuous, direct gas-to-wafer manufacturing process that minimizes waste, resulting in wafers that are both more efficient and less expensive than conventional options. These high-quality wafers are fully compatible with standard cell and module fabrication, allowing solar cell manufacturers to enhance their production capabilities while significantly reducing costs. NexWafe's innovative approach contributes to the advancement of sustainable energy by facilitating the transition to more affordable green solar technology.

Multiphoton Optics

Seed Round in 2014
Multiphoton Optics GmbH specializes in the development and sale of 3D printing equipment and software for additive manufacturing. The company's technology enables the creation of complex three-dimensional structures across various materials, including polymers, hybrid materials, glasses, and metals. Key products include the LithoProf3D printing platform, along with the LithoStream3D and LithoSoft3D software solutions, which cater to applications in photonics, biomedicine, life sciences, and functional materials. Additionally, Multiphoton Optics provides services such as prototyping, engineering support, and consulting to enhance customer experience. Founded in 2013 in Wurzburg, Germany, the company has established a reputation for high-precision opto-electronics assembly and innovative optical component packaging solutions.

Wetransform

Pre Seed Round in 2014
Wetransform GmbH, established in 2014 and based in Darmstadt, Germany, specializes in open-source software for data transformation and management, primarily focusing on geospatial information. The company offers Hale Studio, an interactive data transformation tool, and Hale Connect, a platform for designing data models and publishing services. Additionally, they provide Inspire GIS, a subscription-based solution for GIS work, and support services for their open-source software. Wetransform's technology supports the maintenance and implementation of various industry standards, such as INSPIRE, ISO 191xx, and OGC, serving public authorities, companies, professionals, and large organizations.

Susteen Technologies

Pre Seed Round in 2014
Susteen Technologies specializes in converting waste biomass into sustainable energy and resources, including syngas, bio-oil, and biochar. The company employs thermo-catalytic reforming technology, which encompasses thermal drying, decomposition, catalytic reforming, and product treatment. This innovative approach processes various organic waste types, such as fermentation residues, agricultural and forestry residues, industrial biomass, and municipal organic wastes. By focusing on sustainable energy production, Susteen Technologies aims to provide clean energy solutions while minimizing environmental pollution.

Mifitto

Venture Round in 2013
Mifitto GmbH offers innovative solutions for shoe and apparel retailers, focusing on enhancing the customer experience in both online and physical stores. The company has developed an online foot measuring platform that accurately scans and determines foot size, facilitating the selection of the correct shoe size. This technology, a collaboration with Fraunhofer IIS, aims to minimize returns caused by misfitting, thereby improving efficiency for retailers and satisfaction for consumers. By enabling users to find suitable footwear quickly and without complications, Mifitto enhances the shopping experience and addresses a common issue in the retail industry.

Scopis

Series A in 2013
Scopis GmbH, founded in 2010 as a joint spin-off of Charité University Clinic Berlin and Fraunhofer IPK, specializes in developing and manufacturing navigation systems for minimally invasive surgeries, particularly in the fields of ENT, spine, cranio-maxillofacial, and neurosurgery. The company offers a range of products, including the Scopis TGS for navigated functional endoscopic sinus surgery and the Hybrid Navigation System, which integrates with endoscopic towers to provide high-definition documentation. Scopis also produces various EM instruments, such as precision pointers, malleable suction tubes, and tracking devices. Additionally, the company provides planning software that facilitates the surgical process by allowing users to create and execute plans in the operating theater. Scopis operates a worldwide distribution network and is based in Berlin, Germany, as a subsidiary of Stryker Corporation.

InnoCyte

Series A in 2012
InnoCyte - Technologies for automated Cell Culture. They have the strong belief that automated cell culture could be of inestimable value for cell processing in labs all over the world. InnoCyte brings automated cell culture to the masses - within a benchtop designed, reliable and affordable device.

ModulDepot

Seed Round in 2012
ModulDepot GmbH is a company focused on the conservation of cultural heritage, specializing in the safe and sustainable storage of artworks and cultural goods. The company has developed a depot concept that addresses the unique needs for preserving these items, allowing for the quick, cost-effective, and energy-efficient construction of storage and archive facilities. ModulDepot's services include maintaining indoor climate conditions, implementing fire protection and safety measures, utilizing advanced storage technology, and monitoring for pests and contaminants. By providing these comprehensive preservation services, ModulDepot enables clients to protect historical buildings and monuments, ensuring their longevity and safety.

Subitec

Series B in 2012
Subitec GmbH, founded in 2000 as a spin-off from the Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial and Biotechnology, specializes in manufacturing microalgae biotechnology cultivation equipment and turn-key production systems. The company offers a range of Flat Panel Airlift Photobioreactors in various sizes, including 6 liter, 28 liter, 100 liter, and 180 liter volumes, along with essential components such as lighting systems, media feeds, temperature control, and harvesting tools. Subitec's systems are designed for diverse applications, including nutraceuticals, food and feed, aquaculture, cosmetics, research, and energy markets. The company provides solutions for indoor, outdoor, compact, and hybrid systems, as well as pilot plants, enabling clients to produce sustainable bio-products from microalgae. Based in Stuttgart, Germany, Subitec operates as a subsidiary of Roeser Medical GmbH & Co. KG.

VSM Solar

Venture Round in 2011
VSM Solar Pvt. Ltd., based in Bangalore, specializes in the installation and promotion of solar-thermal systems in India and South Asia. The company focuses on providing comprehensive solar thermal services, offering end-to-end solutions that include design, engineering, procurement, installation, and maintenance. VSM Solar aims to enhance efficiency in industries where air conditioning and hot water preparation are critical components of production. By leveraging solar energy, VSM Solar contributes to sustainable practices while addressing the energy needs of various sectors.

Greasoline

Seed Round in 2011
Greasoline GmbH specializes in the development and commercialization of innovative biofuel conversion technology aimed at creating sustainable alternatives for road and jet fuels. The company focuses on converting oily and fatty raw materials, as well as waste materials, into hydrocarbon mixtures that replicate the chemical composition of fossil gasoline, kerosene, and diesel fuels. Notably, Greasoline’s technology produces fuels with a high kerosene fraction that possess unique lubricating properties and low freezing points, characteristics not achievable by competing renewable technologies, which often rely on hydrogen. This distinction positions Greasoline’s solutions as complementary to existing technologies, enabling the transport and aviation industries to significantly reduce carbon emissions while decreasing reliance on fossil-based feedstocks.

Second Solar Century

Seed Round in 2010
Second Solar Century GmbH, founded in 2010 and based in Halle, Germany, specializes in the development and manufacturing of solar modules utilizing thin-film technology based on cadmium telluride (CdTe). The company focuses on advancing this established technology to produce efficient solar cells and photovoltaic panels. Through its innovative approach, Second Solar Century aims to contribute significantly to the energy transition, enabling clients to enhance environmental sustainability and improve future living conditions.

Inmatech

Seed Round in 2010
Inmatech, Inc. is a company based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, that develops advanced supercapacitor devices designed to enhance energy storage across various industries. Established in 2007, Inmatech focuses on creating supercapacitors that utilize low-cost, high-performing materials and innovative cell designs, resulting in higher energy densities. This technology is particularly beneficial in hybrid electric vehicles, where it aids in load-leveling during start-up, acceleration, and regenerative braking. Additionally, Inmatech's products serve applications such as memory backup in mobile devices and uninterruptible power supplies. By optimizing the performance and lifespan of batteries in hybrid energy storage systems, Inmatech aims to significantly improve energy delivery and efficiency.

Prolupin

Seed Round in 2010
Prolupin GmbH, founded in 2010 and based in Grimmen, Germany, specializes in the development and production of vegetable-based food ingredients derived from lupine seeds. As a spin-off from the Fraunhofer Institute for Process Engineering and Packaging, Prolupin leverages advanced expertise in lupine fractionation and food technology to create a range of products, including lupine protein isolate, ice cream, and various herbal food ingredients. These offerings cater to diverse sectors within the food industry, such as bakery, meat, pasta, and health foods, providing consumers with cholesterol-free, lactose-free, vegan, and gluten-free options. Prolupin's innovative approach is supported by multiple patents from the Fraunhofer Institute, solidifying its competitive position in the vegetable protein market.

Scopis

Seed Round in 2010
Scopis GmbH, founded in 2010 as a joint spin-off of Charité University Clinic Berlin and Fraunhofer IPK, specializes in developing and manufacturing navigation systems for minimally invasive surgeries, particularly in the fields of ENT, spine, cranio-maxillofacial, and neurosurgery. The company offers a range of products, including the Scopis TGS for navigated functional endoscopic sinus surgery and the Hybrid Navigation System, which integrates with endoscopic towers to provide high-definition documentation. Scopis also produces various EM instruments, such as precision pointers, malleable suction tubes, and tracking devices. Additionally, the company provides planning software that facilitates the surgical process by allowing users to create and execute plans in the operating theater. Scopis operates a worldwide distribution network and is based in Berlin, Germany, as a subsidiary of Stryker Corporation.

exocad GmbH

Acquisition in 2010
exocad GmbH, founded in 2010 in Darmstadt, Germany, as a spinoff from the Fraunhofer Organization, specializes in developing software solutions for the dental market. The company offers a range of products including DentalCAD, which facilitates the design of various dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, and inlays, as well as ChairsideCAD, a versatile CAD system for clinical use. Additionally, exocad provides the Implant Module for custom abutments and screw-retained bridges, the Virtual Articulator for occlusal considerations, and the Nesting Module for efficient production management. The firm holds an exclusive license for Fraunhofer's dental CAD technology, leveraging the expertise of its founders who previously worked at the Fraunhofer IGD. exocad markets its innovative solutions through a network of partners, contributing to its rapid growth and adoption in the digital dentistry sector.

Audanika

Seed Round in 2010
Audanika GmbH, founded in 2010 and based in Martinroda, Germany, specializes in developing digital music applications, primarily for iOS devices. The company's flagship product, SoundPrism, is an innovative digital music instrument that allows users to create harmonic sounds easily, regardless of their musical background. Released in August 2010, SoundPrism was designed to simplify the process of music creation through a graphical interface that visualizes complex harmonic concepts. In 2011, Audanika introduced SoundPrism Pro, which enables users to connect their devices to professional equipment via Core Midi, enhancing its functionality for more advanced users. The company's technology is rooted in research conducted by former employees of the German Fraunhofer Institute, where the CTO, Dr. Gabriel Gatzsche, developed and patented a new layout for harmonic sounds, facilitating a more engaging approach to music learning and creation.

eZelleron

Seed Round in 2009
eZelleron is an innovative company with the intention to revolutionize portable power supply. Accumulator systems and batteries do not come up to the growing demands on portable and mobile energy storages in a satisfactory way. eZellerons new fuel cell technology is extremely light, works on all fuels and is low cost since the start of serial production in 2014.

Leenize

Seed Round in 2009
Leenize is a specialized and easy-to-use online solution for the central planning, monitoring, reporting and benchmarking of energy efficiency measures of any number of company locations.

TriDiCam

Seed Round in 2009
TriDiCam GmbH is a German company established in 2008, headquartered in Duisburg, specializing in the development and marketing of 3D sensor modules tailored for robotic applications. The company focuses on manufacturing sensors that accurately detect the position, size, and shape of objects. Its innovative flight image sensor technology integrates all essential components for three-dimensional visualization onto a single chip, allowing for cost-effective production in large volumes. This approach enables clients to access compact and affordable 3D image sensors, enhancing the capabilities of robotic systems in various industries.

SolarSpring

Seed Round in 2009
SolarSpring GmbH is a company based in Freiburg, Germany, specializing in the development, construction, and operation of solar water treatment and desalination systems. Founded in 2009, it focuses on innovative technologies such as solar thermal desalination and disinfection. The company’s flagship product, Oryx 150, offers a solution for autonomous water supply, effectively treating sea and brackish water as well as contaminated sources. SolarSpring utilizes clean materials and harnesses thermal energy, photovoltaic energy, and waste heat to enhance its water purification processes, which include membrane distillation and UV disinfection. As of March 2020, SolarSpring operates as a subsidiary of Industrial Solar Holding Europe AB.

scapos

Seed Round in 2009
scapos AG is a software company based in Sankt Augustin, Germany, founded in 2009. It specializes in developing and marketing advanced software solutions for various industries, including automotive, manufacturing, and scientific research. The company's offerings include SCAI software solutions, such as GPI for application development on multicore architectures, AutoNester products for optimizing marker placement on fabrics and leather, and PackAssistant for efficient packing configurations. Additionally, scapos provides simulation tools like Material Flow Simulation for production systems and MpCCI for linking simulation programs. Its products also encompass FEMZIP for compressing crash simulation data and DIFF-CRASH for analyzing crash stability. The company supports research institutions and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in marketing their software products, leveraging a global network of sales partners to access growth markets, particularly in Asia.

mignos

Seed Round in 2008
mignos GmbH specializes in the development and integration of micro systems tailored for client applications, alongside the production and marketing of micro system modules. Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Deckenpfronn, Germany, the company is recognized for its advanced manufacturing of silicon micro pumps and micro valves. These products are particularly suited for critical applications in medical diagnostics and laboratory analytics, where precise liquid measurement is essential. By offering silicon-based micropumps and high-performance pumps, mignos provides clients with innovative and cost-effective solutions, enhancing their operational capabilities in various fields.

ForTISS

Seed Round in 2008
ForTISS GmbH is a research organization based in Munich, Germany, that specializes in developing software and systems solutions with a focus on cyber-physical systems. The company conducts research in areas such as modeling theory, tool support for domain-specific development, and architectures related to non-functional properties. Its work encompasses software and systems engineering, which includes model-based requirements engineering, system architectures, and quality assurance during development phases. ForTISS also serves as a technological think tank, promoting research and technology transfer in software-intensive systems and services, particularly within Bavaria. By bridging the gap between academic research and practical industrial application, ForTISS supports innovation across various sectors, including automotive, industrial automation, smart energy grids, and public administration.

ISYS Adaptive Solutions

Seed Round in 2007
ISYS Adaptive Solutions GmbH specializes in the development and production of advanced vibration reduction technology, focusing on systems that utilize piezo-ceramic interfaces for high-frequency component and material testing. Based in Darmstadt, Germany, the company offers innovative solutions aimed at addressing vibration-related challenges across various applications. Their technology enables precise control and optimization of the mechanical behavior of structures, ensuring improved performance and reliability for their customers.

HiperScan

Seed Round in 2006
HiperScan GmbH, founded in 2006 and based in Dresden, Germany, specializes in high-performance scanning technologies for laser beam deflection. The company provides compact scan engines capable of scanning laser beams or collimated light beams over large angles in one or two dimensions. These scan engines serve as sub-units for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) customers across various industries, including metrology and laser writing. HiperScan is recognized for its expertise in light scanning technologies, catering to a diverse range of applications.

JenaValve Technology

Series A in 2006
JenaValve Technology, Inc., established in 2006, specializes in developing and manufacturing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) systems. Its flagship product, the Trilogy™ Heart Valve System, is designed to treat high-risk patients with symptomatic, severe aortic regurgitation and aortic stenosis. The system, which received CE Mark approval in 2021, features a porcine pericardial trileaflet valve mounted on a low-profile nitinol self-expanding frame with integral locators that engage with the native valve cusps. JenaValve operates globally, with headquarters in Irvine, California, and additional locations in Munich, Germany, and Leeds, United Kingdom.

fluIT Biosystems

Series A in 2006
fluIT Biosystems strives for providing innovative and reliable analysis systems with single molecule sensitivity to customers in the life sciences worldwide.

Pharmedartis

Pre Seed Round in 2004
Pharmedartis is a biotechnology company dedicated to enhancing global health through the development and production of advanced biopharmaceuticals. The company specializes in recombinant technologies and protein production, offering drug development services that support medical professionals in treating conditions such as cancer, inflammation, and autoimmune diseases. Through its innovative approaches, Pharmedartis aims to improve the quality of life for patients worldwide by delivering effective therapeutic solutions.

RESprotect

Pre Seed Round in 2000
RESprotect GmbH is a bioengineering company based in Dresden, Germany, focused on developing pharmaceuticals aimed at preventing and treating drug resistance associated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy in cancer patients. Established in 2000, the company specializes in small molecule drugs, including Hsp27 and RP101, which are administered orally alongside standard chemotherapy treatments. These innovative therapeutic agents are designed to enhance the efficacy of existing cancer treatments by aiding patients, particularly those with pancreatic cancer, in effectively targeting and eliminating tumor cells.
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