HTGF | High-Tech Gruenderfonds

AICA SA specializes in developing robot-agnostic software aimed at simplifying the programming of robots through the use of artificial intelligence. Recognizing the complexity and time-consuming nature of traditional robot programming, the co-founders created a user-friendly software solution that significantly reduces computing time while employing advanced algorithms. This innovative approach allows for a modular setup that enhances the interaction between humans and robots, enabling clients to implement and manipulate robotic systems on-site with ease. AICA envisions a future where robots can take over dirty, dull, or dangerous tasks, allowing humans to focus on more creative and challenging work.

Instagrid GmbH, founded in 2018 and based in Stuttgart, Germany, specializes in the manufacturing of portable battery storage systems designed to create mobile power infrastructures for various sectors, including construction, event technology, landscaping, and public services. The company's innovative products feature a unique architecture of stacked micro-level inverters, which allows them to be smaller, lighter, and more powerful than traditional battery systems. Instagrid's portable power solutions provide reliable access to clean, affordable, and silent electricity, effectively replacing environmentally harmful petrol and diesel generators. By enabling users to operate efficiently at temporary locations, Instagrid plays a crucial role in meeting the energy demands of industries with challenging power requirements.

Bind-X is a biotechnology company focused on enhancing the sustainability of various industries through innovative applications. The company specializes in the development of microbiologically induced bio-cement, which utilizes a bio-geochemical process to facilitate calcium carbonate precipitation within soil. This technology enables clients to transform sand into bricks, providing an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution for dust control and pollution management. By optimizing biotechnological processes, Bind-X aims to improve both the sustainability and profitability of its clients' operations.

Materials Nexus is a deep-tech company specializing in automated quantum calculations for accurate large-scale material analysis. They aim to accelerate the development of sustainable materials and reduce CO2 emissions.

FINDIQ is a software producer based in the Ostwestfalen-Lippe industrial region. It develops a platform that intelligently integrates knowledge management with assistance systems for machine service, enabling service experts from different generations and disciplines to collaborate across companies. The solution provides knowledge as straightforward, step-by-step instructions to help clients lower costs, stabilize supply chains, and address shortages of skilled workers due to illness and age.

talpasolutions a predictive SaaS analytics provider for the mining industry that helps companies optimize machine performance, reduce breakdowns, and improve safety by making data more understandable. talpasolutions makes it possible for operators and machine manufacturers in heavy industry to use machine data that would have otherwise been lost. talpasolutions concentrates on building visualization and analysis applications for the industrial internet. In the first step, large amounts of data from the machines are recorded. Comprehendable visualizations allow for different stakeholders to understand relationships based on sensor data and contextual data and to react to critical information, which would otherwise have been buried in the data transfer. In the second step the newest predictive models are applied to eliminate events such as errors and the breakdown of machines critical to the process. This increases not only the availability but also the workload of the machines. talpasolutions has built a network out of industry partners to develop solutions that stretch across various sectors and unify industry experience, data science, and workflow connectivity. Using predictive instructions our platform recognizes problems before they occur and supports users with workflow-based processes. Our applications make it possible to collect performance data from machines in order to recommend optimal fleet combinations for respective scenarios to customers. This leads to more operating hours, higher efficiency, and an improved lifetime value of the machines.

Intelligent fluids develops high-performance cleaning fluids based on a patented technology that combines gentle ingredients to create dynamic phase fluids tailored to specific needs. The fluids achieve cleaning effects through physical mechanisms rather than chemical dissolution, making them safe for users, equipment, and the environment. They are designed for microelectronics, electronics, optics, printing, industrial maintenance, and building protection, and are used for stripping, removing dirt, residues, coatings, and lacquer. The company pursues ongoing product development for its own line and collaborates on joint development agreements and private-label projects. In addition to established applications, the technology has potential in fields such as functional skincare and dental cosmetics. The approach aims to improve process efficiency and sustainability by offering alternatives to conventional solvents.

AICA SA specializes in developing robot-agnostic software aimed at simplifying the programming of robots through the use of artificial intelligence. Recognizing the complexity and time-consuming nature of traditional robot programming, the co-founders created a user-friendly software solution that significantly reduces computing time while employing advanced algorithms. This innovative approach allows for a modular setup that enhances the interaction between humans and robots, enabling clients to implement and manipulate robotic systems on-site with ease. AICA envisions a future where robots can take over dirty, dull, or dangerous tasks, allowing humans to focus on more creative and challenging work.

Instagrid GmbH, founded in 2018 and based in Stuttgart, Germany, specializes in the manufacturing of portable battery storage systems designed to create mobile power infrastructures for various sectors, including construction, event technology, landscaping, and public services. The company's innovative products feature a unique architecture of stacked micro-level inverters, which allows them to be smaller, lighter, and more powerful than traditional battery systems. Instagrid's portable power solutions provide reliable access to clean, affordable, and silent electricity, effectively replacing environmentally harmful petrol and diesel generators. By enabling users to operate efficiently at temporary locations, Instagrid plays a crucial role in meeting the energy demands of industries with challenging power requirements.

MetisMotion GmbH, founded in 2018 and headquartered in Munich, Germany, specializes in the development of advanced actuators designed for various industrial applications, including robotics, aviation, and automotive sectors. The company focuses on creating lightweight, high force-density actuators that enhance performance through significant reductions in weight and space. MetisMotion's technology integrates the advantages of solid-state actuators with traditional drive systems, facilitating the electrification of hydraulic systems to achieve greater force output and extended displacement capabilities. This innovative approach positions MetisMotion as a key player in driving efficiency and modernization within the actuator market.

Kiutra is a Munich-based technology company that designs and manufactures cryogenic cooling and refrigeration solutions for research and industry. It develops turn-key cryostats and magnetic cooling technology that delivers continuous sub-kelvin temperatures without reliance on liquid cooling media, notably avoiding helium-3. The platforms provide compact, cost-efficient cooling and rapid sample exchange, enabling researchers to focus on experiments rather than equipment maintenance. Kiutra’s systems support low-temperature investigations across materials science, quantum technology, high-performance electronics, and detector applications, helping customers push forward basic research and industrial-scale quantum hardware development. By offering cryogen-free cooling and easy-to-use platforms, Kiutra aims to accelerate the development and testing of quantum computing, communications, and sensing technologies.

MetisMotion GmbH, founded in 2018 and headquartered in Munich, Germany, specializes in the development of advanced actuators designed for various industrial applications, including robotics, aviation, and automotive sectors. The company focuses on creating lightweight, high force-density actuators that enhance performance through significant reductions in weight and space. MetisMotion's technology integrates the advantages of solid-state actuators with traditional drive systems, facilitating the electrification of hydraulic systems to achieve greater force output and extended displacement capabilities. This innovative approach positions MetisMotion as a key player in driving efficiency and modernization within the actuator market.

talpasolutions a predictive SaaS analytics provider for the mining industry that helps companies optimize machine performance, reduce breakdowns, and improve safety by making data more understandable. talpasolutions makes it possible for operators and machine manufacturers in heavy industry to use machine data that would have otherwise been lost. talpasolutions concentrates on building visualization and analysis applications for the industrial internet. In the first step, large amounts of data from the machines are recorded. Comprehendable visualizations allow for different stakeholders to understand relationships based on sensor data and contextual data and to react to critical information, which would otherwise have been buried in the data transfer. In the second step the newest predictive models are applied to eliminate events such as errors and the breakdown of machines critical to the process. This increases not only the availability but also the workload of the machines. talpasolutions has built a network out of industry partners to develop solutions that stretch across various sectors and unify industry experience, data science, and workflow connectivity. Using predictive instructions our platform recognizes problems before they occur and supports users with workflow-based processes. Our applications make it possible to collect performance data from machines in order to recommend optimal fleet combinations for respective scenarios to customers. This leads to more operating hours, higher efficiency, and an improved lifetime value of the machines.

Founded in Berlin, Germany in 2019, WAKU Robotics specializes in digital solutions for selecting, planning, and procuring optimal robot solutions. Its flagship product, WAKU Care, is a software platform for efficient maintenance and after-sales management of autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). The company serves international clients, offering services such as repair coordination, process improvement, and spare part management.

Instagrid GmbH, founded in 2018 and based in Stuttgart, Germany, specializes in the manufacturing of portable battery storage systems designed to create mobile power infrastructures for various sectors, including construction, event technology, landscaping, and public services. The company's innovative products feature a unique architecture of stacked micro-level inverters, which allows them to be smaller, lighter, and more powerful than traditional battery systems. Instagrid's portable power solutions provide reliable access to clean, affordable, and silent electricity, effectively replacing environmentally harmful petrol and diesel generators. By enabling users to operate efficiently at temporary locations, Instagrid plays a crucial role in meeting the energy demands of industries with challenging power requirements.

Hprobe SA is a French company established in 2017, specializing in the design and construction of automated wafer-level magnetic test solutions. Based in Eybens, the company develops a three-dimensional magnetic field generator that enables the characterization and testing of various magnetic devices and sensors, including Magnetic Tunnel Junctions, STT MRAM, and TMR sensors. Hprobe's innovative equipment and software facilitate wafer prober testing automation, catering to the needs of the semiconductor industry, particularly in spintronics-based applications. This technology provides customers with efficient testing solutions critical for mass production and the development of embedded memory technologies in system-on-chip designs.

Kiutra is a Munich-based technology company that designs and manufactures cryogenic cooling and refrigeration solutions for research and industry. It develops turn-key cryostats and magnetic cooling technology that delivers continuous sub-kelvin temperatures without reliance on liquid cooling media, notably avoiding helium-3. The platforms provide compact, cost-efficient cooling and rapid sample exchange, enabling researchers to focus on experiments rather than equipment maintenance. Kiutra’s systems support low-temperature investigations across materials science, quantum technology, high-performance electronics, and detector applications, helping customers push forward basic research and industrial-scale quantum hardware development. By offering cryogen-free cooling and easy-to-use platforms, Kiutra aims to accelerate the development and testing of quantum computing, communications, and sensing technologies.

Instagrid GmbH, founded in 2018 and based in Stuttgart, Germany, specializes in the manufacturing of portable battery storage systems designed to create mobile power infrastructures for various sectors, including construction, event technology, landscaping, and public services. The company's innovative products feature a unique architecture of stacked micro-level inverters, which allows them to be smaller, lighter, and more powerful than traditional battery systems. Instagrid's portable power solutions provide reliable access to clean, affordable, and silent electricity, effectively replacing environmentally harmful petrol and diesel generators. By enabling users to operate efficiently at temporary locations, Instagrid plays a crucial role in meeting the energy demands of industries with challenging power requirements.

MetisMotion GmbH, founded in 2018 and headquartered in Munich, Germany, specializes in the development of advanced actuators designed for various industrial applications, including robotics, aviation, and automotive sectors. The company focuses on creating lightweight, high force-density actuators that enhance performance through significant reductions in weight and space. MetisMotion's technology integrates the advantages of solid-state actuators with traditional drive systems, facilitating the electrification of hydraulic systems to achieve greater force output and extended displacement capabilities. This innovative approach positions MetisMotion as a key player in driving efficiency and modernization within the actuator market.

Hofmann & Stirner ist ein Hersteller für automatisierte Zuführsysteme mit Schwingförderern und nutzt Simulationsverfahren zu deren Entwicklung. Entsprechend unserem Leitbild EXCITED BY SCIENCE transferieren wir dazu Ergebnisse aus der Forschung in die industrielle Anwendung. Unser Anspruch ist es, dem Kunden die leistungsstärksten und flexibelsten Zuführsysteme zur Verfügung zu stellen, die den Anforderungen einer modernen Produktion mit kurzen Produktlebenszyklen und hohen Taktraten genügen. Hierfür haben wir die Zuführsysteme PARU und ROTU entwickelt. Durch Einsatz digitaler Zwillinge kann parallel zum Betrieb das reale System für neue Fördergüter vorbereitet werden. Fortlaufend erhobene Betriebsdaten halten den digitalen Zwilling auf einem aktuellen Stand und verhelfen uns zur kontinuierlichen Weiterentwicklung des Systems. Mit einem Zuführsystem von Hofmann & Stirner müssen Sie keine Entscheidung zwischen Zuführleistung und Flexibilität mehr treffen.

Memetis GmbH, established in 2017 and headquartered in Karlsruhe, Germany, specializes in the development and production of foil-based miniature actuators. These innovative products utilize shape memory alloy technology, offering superior force generation, compactness, and flexibility compared to traditional wire-based mechanisms. Memetis serves diverse industries such as automotive, aerospace, medical technology, bioanalytics, and testing equipment manufacturing, catering to their unique motion control needs. As a spin-off of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), the company leverages cutting-edge research to deliver high-performance solutions tailored to each client's requirements.

talpasolutions a predictive SaaS analytics provider for the mining industry that helps companies optimize machine performance, reduce breakdowns, and improve safety by making data more understandable. talpasolutions makes it possible for operators and machine manufacturers in heavy industry to use machine data that would have otherwise been lost. talpasolutions concentrates on building visualization and analysis applications for the industrial internet. In the first step, large amounts of data from the machines are recorded. Comprehendable visualizations allow for different stakeholders to understand relationships based on sensor data and contextual data and to react to critical information, which would otherwise have been buried in the data transfer. In the second step the newest predictive models are applied to eliminate events such as errors and the breakdown of machines critical to the process. This increases not only the availability but also the workload of the machines. talpasolutions has built a network out of industry partners to develop solutions that stretch across various sectors and unify industry experience, data science, and workflow connectivity. Using predictive instructions our platform recognizes problems before they occur and supports users with workflow-based processes. Our applications make it possible to collect performance data from machines in order to recommend optimal fleet combinations for respective scenarios to customers. This leads to more operating hours, higher efficiency, and an improved lifetime value of the machines.

otego GmbH is a German company founded in 2016 and headquartered in Karlsruhe. It specializes in the development of thermoelectric generators (TEGs) that provide independent energy solutions for wireless sensors and actuators. By converting heat directly into electric power through temperature differences, otego's technology is applicable in various fields, including the Internet of Things, waste heat recovery, and Industry 4.0. The company emerged as a spin-off from the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology and is driven by a diverse team comprising physicians, a chemist, and a business engineer, all dedicated to advancing and commercializing its innovative technology.

Wiferion is a Germany-based provider of wireless charging and energy storage solutions for mobile robots, automated guided vehicles and electric industrial trucks. The company offers a range of products and systems, including wall boxes, charging pads, receiver coils, mobile charging units and energy storage modules, enabling on-the-go energy supply and retrofit options for existing fleets. Founded in 2015 in Freiburg by former employees of the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems, Wiferion develops inductive charging technology and energy-management solutions aimed at increasing fleet utilization and efficiency while reducing downtime and maintenance costs. Its etaLINK inductive charging family has earned industry awards and is deployed in more than 20 countries, with thousands of systems in operation. Wiferion collaborates with robotics and automation partners to deliver scalable, resource-efficient power for electric industrial vehicles, supporting sustainable operations across logistics, manufacturing and automotive sectors.

Bentekk GmbH, founded in 2014 and based in Hamburg, Germany, specializes in the development and manufacturing of intelligent gas measuring systems designed for on-site analysis of contaminants. The company focuses on portable gas measurement devices that utilize gas chromatography and photo ionization detection to accurately assess volatile organic compounds and other hazardous substances. This technology is applicable across various sectors, including environmental monitoring, first response, logistics, life sciences, and the chemical industry. By providing equipment that enhances occupational health and safety, Bentekk enables better monitoring of toxic gas levels, contributing to safer working environments. As a subsidiary of Dräger Safety AG & Co. KGaA since 2017, Bentekk continues to advance its mission of improving workplace safety through innovative measurement solutions.

Pulsar Photonics GmbH specializes in the development, production, and sale of advanced machines and integrated tools for material processing, utilizing short and ultrashort pulse lasers. Founded in 2013 as a spin-off from the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology, the company offers a range of lean laser machines designed for applications such as laser drilling, micro structuring, and precision cutting. Their modular systems for beam shaping and deflection are equipped with sensors that enhance operational efficiency and productivity. Pulsar Photonics also provides comprehensive services including machine construction, on-site installation, and after-sales support. With a focus on customized solutions, the company caters to diverse industry needs both within Germany and internationally, leveraging its expertise and collaboration with a network of laser technology manufacturers and users.

Multiphoton Optics GmbH, founded in September 2013 and based in Würzburg, Germany, specializes in the development and sale of 3D printing equipment and software solutions for additive manufacturing. The company’s technology enables the creation of intricate three-dimensional structures on various materials, including polymers, hybrid materials, glasses, and metals. Its flagship products include the LithoProf3D printing platform, along with software solutions such as LithoStream3D and LithoSoft3D, which support applications in photonics, biomedicine, life sciences, and functional materials. Additionally, Multiphoton Optics offers high-precision automation processes for opto-electronics assembly, facilitating the interconnection of optical components and photonic chips. The company also provides prototyping, engineering support, and consulting services to enhance its customers' capabilities.

WPX Faserkeramik specializes in the production of high-performance ceramic fiber composite material WHIPOX. The company focuses on developing products for high-temperature applications, notably in industrial metal heat treatment and engine/combustion turbine exhaust systems.

HiperScan GmbH, founded in 2006 and based in Dresden, Germany, specializes in the development of high-performance scanners for laser beam deflection. The company focuses on light scanning technologies, offering compact scan engines that effectively scan laser beams or collimated light beams across large angles in one or two dimensions. These scan engines serve as sub-units for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) customers in various sectors, including metrology and laser writing, among others. HiperScan is recognized for its expertise in delivering innovative solutions tailored to meet the demands of diverse industrial applications.

Bionic Robotics GmbH, formerly known as BioRob, focuses on developing lightweight construction robots aimed at enhancing automation in small and medium enterprises. The company has created a robotic arm called Biorob, which features a safe and lightweight design that eliminates the need for special sensors or additional protective measures. This innovation provides a cost-effective and user-friendly solution for the automation industry, facilitating flexible automation processes tailored to the needs of smaller businesses.

Compositence is a manufacturer specializing in carbon and fiber composites for various industries, including automotive, wind energy, aerospace, machinery, and sports and leisure. The company focuses on providing machinery for the large-scale production of carbon fiber and glass fiber components, alongside software solutions for part design and simulation. By integrating advanced technologies, Compositence aims to enhance efficiency and innovation in composite manufacturing, catering to a diverse range of industrial applications.

Böhner-EH GmbH is a German company located in Burghaslach that specializes in the manufacture and marketing of electric-hydrostatic drive systems. These systems integrate the advantages of both electric and hydraulic technologies and are utilized in various sectors, including machinery and plant engineering, traffic technology, and renewable energy technology. The company's innovative electric-hydrostatic direct drives are designed to enhance efficiency and performance across these applications.

PAS-Analytik Gasanalytik GmbH in Hamburg develops, produces and sells innovative analyzers that detect gases and measure their concentrations. The name of the company derives from the acronym for „Photo-Acoustic Spectroscopy“ - P A S. PAS-Analytik is worldwide the only provider of gas analyzers, that utilizes the proprietary and extraordinarily powerful technique of "Laser-Based Photoacoustics". This principle enables extremely high detection sensitivities and selectivities and allows particularly simple and compact gas analyzers.

SemiLev GmbH develops and markets Equipment Frontend Modules (EFEMs) and sorters for wafer-handling in the semiconductor industry. The company was founded in 2010 and is based in GroЯwallstadt, Germany.

Limata is a German development-stage company based in Ismaning. It specializes in developing precision machines for ultraviolet lithography of printed circuit boards.

HiperScan GmbH, founded in 2006 and based in Dresden, Germany, specializes in the development of high-performance scanners for laser beam deflection. The company focuses on light scanning technologies, offering compact scan engines that effectively scan laser beams or collimated light beams across large angles in one or two dimensions. These scan engines serve as sub-units for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) customers in various sectors, including metrology and laser writing, among others. HiperScan is recognized for its expertise in delivering innovative solutions tailored to meet the demands of diverse industrial applications.

Corrmoran has developed measuring technology for the analysis of corrosion processes in steam generators. With the help of sensors, this measuring procedure allows for the recording and analysis of corrosion rates in relevant atmospheres or in critical flue gas streams. This helps to prevent damage to plants and enables the precise monitoring of corrosion processes.

Kröhnert Infotecs GmbH specializes in the development and production of embedded systems for condition monitoring. Based in Baden, Germany, the company focuses on preventing failures in technical machines by analyzing their behavior, including noise and parameters. Kröhnert's solutions help manufacturers and operators recognize early signs of potential machine failures and deviations in performance. The company provides tools for condition monitoring and tele service to support the maintenance and operation of technical machines and plants.

Intelligent fluids develops high-performance cleaning fluids based on a patented technology that combines gentle ingredients to create dynamic phase fluids tailored to specific needs. The fluids achieve cleaning effects through physical mechanisms rather than chemical dissolution, making them safe for users, equipment, and the environment. They are designed for microelectronics, electronics, optics, printing, industrial maintenance, and building protection, and are used for stripping, removing dirt, residues, coatings, and lacquer. The company pursues ongoing product development for its own line and collaborates on joint development agreements and private-label projects. In addition to established applications, the technology has potential in fields such as functional skincare and dental cosmetics. The approach aims to improve process efficiency and sustainability by offering alternatives to conventional solvents.