In the world of startups, a large focus is always on major funding rounds. While these are surely important, they are just a new chapter in the founder’s journey! Regardless of funding events, here are our monthly picks of the most innovative high-tech startups with big ambitions and the potential to disrupt entire industries that in our view deserve the spotlight:
Eye4sky – Lightweight modulators enabling small satellites to see more
Founded in 2022, Eye4sky Technologies develops polarization modulators for space missions, which have already been deployed in several ESA- and NASA-missions to observe the sun. The modulators are based on liquid crystals, avoiding moving parts and making them lighter and less expensive than traditional solutions. This makes them also fit for small satellites, equipping these with resolution capabilities previously only achieved by large satellites.
Why we are excited about them: The team has already proven they can adhere to the grueling quality requirements for space tech. In December 2024, Eye4sky was among the few startups selected to receive a €325,000 grant through the CDTI NEOTEC program. CEO Jesús Fernández Borrell plans to use these funds to develop tailored solutions for the growing fleet of small satellites in low-earth orbit used for earth observation and communication.
Nanostine – Using nanotechnology to make ultra-pure surfaces
Nanostine, a spin-off of the CSIC founded in 2020, specializes in the fabrication of ultra-pure nanostructured coatings. The companies licensed technology has a broad range of potential applications. In the aerospace industry it can be used to protect surfaces from environmental degradation. In photovoltaics it can increase the efficiency of solar cells and in nanomedicine, it can improve the effectiveness of medical treatments.
Why we are excited about them: Nanostine raised €300,000 in seed-funding in May 2023 in a round led by FI Group with the participation of B5tec. By middle of 2025, CEO Daniel González Muñoz plans to finalize an ongoing pilot with the European Space Agency, using ultra-pure nanoparticle coating to significantly extend the lifetime of radiofrequency devices in satellites.
Ownmed Innovation – Improving the lives of ostomized patients
Ownmed Innovation was founded in 2021 with the goal to improve the lives of patients after ostomy surgery, which creates an artificial opening through which waste material exits their body. The company is developing Ostofix, an alternative to traditional ostomy bags, which empowers patients to control their waste evacuation and reduces the visibility of the condition, greatly improving the patient’s quality of life.
Why we are excited about them: In December 2024, Ownmed was among the few startups selected to receive a €325,000 grant through the CDTI NEOTEC program. After promising initial results in animal trials, CEO Ana Ye Zhang plans to use these funds to move Ostofix through the first stage of clinical validation focused on security and functionality by the end of 2025.
QDynamics – Using quantum encryption to keep communication secure
QDynamics, a 2023 spinoff from CSIC focuses on developing quantum key distribution (QKD) systems for secure information encryption. Addressing the critical need for information security against future threats, such as those posed by quantum computing, QDynamics develops advanced solutions that can resist such attacks. These solutions can be adapted to various types of links, including terrestrial fiber as well as free-space wireless connections.
Why we are excited about them: QDynamics was among the few startups selected to receive a €325,000 grant through the CDTI NEOTEC program. Co-founders Verónica Fernández and Aida Garcia plan to use these funds to complete their current pilot phase of quantum key distribution devices for secure communication over optical fiber links covering distances of up to 50km.
Tesai Care – Speeding up recovery for mechanically ventilated patients
Tesai Care, founded in 2020, has developed a medical device to prevent respiratory muscle atrophy in patients who require mechanical ventilation during their stay in an Intensive Care Unit, Their device synchronizes with the patient´s breathing and electronically stimulates respiratory muscles, significantly shortening subsequent recovery. In December 2024, Tesai Care has initiated a clinical study to demonstrate its devices safety.
Why we are excited about them: Tesai Care raised €2.8 million in seed funding in December 2024 in a round led by Nara Capital. CEO Laura Lizama plans to use these funds to advance the clinical studies necessary to introduce the device to the market, with the goal of obtaining CE marking as a medical device in 2026.
These startups have one thing in common: their innovative approaches position them as key players to watch in their respective industries. Join us in rooting for their success and be prepared for them to make headlines soon.
