August 2, 2024
Preparation is crucial
Dear reader
Biped spent three years on research and development in the development of NOA, an AI-powered navigation device designed to complement traditional mobility aids for the blind and visually impaired. The first shipment has been fulfilled and distributors for the US market established. Maven Health, which uses saliva-based testing to assess metabolic health, has also launched its solution in the European market, starting with Switzerland and the Netherlands. This achievement comes just six and a half months after incorporation of the business.
Vaud-based start-up Isochronic faced a mathematical challenge in developing the appropriate algorithms for its iSort robot system. The innovative simultaneous pick & place technology has applications in the sheet metal and packaging industries, and the first device has now been put into operation in Germany. Three further start-ups have also secured new deals, allowing them to demonstrate the potential of their solutions and scale their business.
Milestones such as these empower founders to stay ambitious and spread their footprint further. In this context, Zoundream, which develops AI solutions to analyse and interpret infant crying, will integrate the technology of a Canada-based start-up. This strategic acquisition will allow it to expand its services with infant speech development monitoring, and strengthens its position as the sole provider of analytical solutions in early infant communication.
After a rigorous process, the Federal Aviation Administration has certified Loft Dynamic’s virtual reality flight simulation training device, making it the world’s first approved simulator. This approval comes at a time when the use of VR is gaining popularity in pilot training in the US market, paving the way for the company to become the leading supplier of these devices.
Another decisive certification has gone to AC Immune: the company has received Fast Track designation from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its drug candidate for Alzheimer’s disease, setting the stage for phase two clinical trials funded by Janssen Pharmaceuticals.
Metafuels and its partner the Paul Scherrer Institute also need funding to accelerate the development of their sustainable aviation fuel. The grant from the Federal Office of Energy will enable the two companies to establish a pilot facility.
In addition to announcing Flink Robotics as the winner of the Venture Kick award, Venturelab has also revealed the 10 cleantech start-ups that will be heading to Munich in November for the business development roadshow.
The application window for the Swiss Technology Award closes on 9 August; the Academia-Industry Training programme, Cleantech Sub-Saharan Africa and Cyber Startup Challenge are still open for registration this month. More awards and events can be found in our calendar.
Have a good weekend.
Ritah Ayebare Nyakato
Duty Editor, Startupticker.ch
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The new Swiss Venture Capital Report was published on 26 January. It analyses 304 financing rounds closed in 2020 and includes further article such as an interview with Michael Hengartner, President of the ETH Board, and a list of Swiss "soonicorns". 
