Since the beginning of 2023 Innosuisse has been able to directly support innovation projects from start-ups before they go to market. Up to now 45 start-ups received funding – check the full list.With the Start-up innovation project, Innosuisse directly funds high potential science-based projects initiated by Swiss start-ups, giving them a financial boost to propel their market entry. The innovation projects must be based on application-oriented research and prepare the start-ups for entering the market for the first time. In the case of these projects, only the start-up is supported. A research partner is not necessary. Furthermore, eligible companies must be headquartered in Switzerland, were established not more than 5 years ago and have less than 50 full-time equivalent employees.Since the start in 2023, 45 companies received direct funding for their science-based projects

Deeplight: affordable high-end lasers for mass marketsIn collaboration with EPFL's Laboratory of Photonic Integrated Circuits and Quantum Measurements, Deeplight is at the forefront of the development of innovative lasers based on hybrid photonic integrated circuit technology. These lasers are essential for applications such as satellite-to-satellite telecommunication, LiDAR remote sensing in the automotive sector, and greenhouse gas detection.
 
These lasers feature the highest spectral purity on the market enabling optical detection applications with much greater sensitivity than today.
Deeplight has already signed licensing and collaboration agreements with EPFL, as well as development contracts with leading industrial companies.
 
The CHF 100,000 Tech Seed loan from FIT will enable Deeplight to strengthen the robustness of its lasers and achieve key milestones, including obtaining the relevant laser certifications and concluding contracts with its first customers.
 
ProSeed gives a second life to brewing by-productsProSeed's mission is to transform the Swiss food industry by upcycling brewing by-products into valuable raw materials. Using an innovative production unit, ProSeed offers breweries a hassle-free solution for transforming their by-products into food-grade raw materials, generating additional revenue while significantly reducing waste.
 
ProSeed's business model involves setting up processing units in breweries to convert brewers' residual grain into barley flakes, which it then sells to its network of ingredient manufacturers. The three-step process has been patented and the start-up has already signed letters of intent with breweries and food manufacturers. By teaming up with a major bakery, ProSeed sold over 8,500 baguettes made from barley flake-based protein flour in three months.
 
With the CHF 100,000 FoodTech loan from FIT, ProSeed will optimise its technology and increase its production capacity, with the aim of generating revenue by 2025.(Press release)