Interest free loans granted to four technology startups

The foundation, created in 1918 strives to transfer know-how and technologies developed at Swiss institutions of higher learning and their associated research facilities, into private enterprises. The intent being that these technologies or knowledge applications are subsequently commercialized to achieve an economic gain. This transpires through the process of founding new companies (university spin-offs).

Every year the foundation meets twice, in summer and in winter to select 4 to 6 start-ups that will be granted an interest free loan of approximately CHF 100’000.−. These start-ups are obliged to sign a loan agreement that specifies the terms and conditions of the loan, including the repayment of the granted loan by the date specified in the contract (usually 24 months after a first drawdown), or as soon as long-term financing is locked up, for example via an equity infusion. During the winter assessment, four technology start-ups, IRsweep, Lucentix and Dermolockin were granted a loan worth CHF 100'000.- and Bitsplitters CHF 70'000.-.

IRsweep
The ETH spin-off IRsweep is the developer of the unique spectroscopic sensors that efficiently analyse the composition of gaseous and liquid substances, and in contrast to previous techniques, which enable faster, more reliable and more versatile analysis. The innovation lies in the use of multi-coloured and particularly precise lasers. The technology can be applied in various sectors including the food, oil and pharmaceutical industries and for security solutions.

Lucentix
LUCENTIX develops a new biosensor technology that allows patients to measure precise concentrations of analytes in a single drop of blood or saliva using a low-cost handheld device giving laboratory-quality results. Measurements that today require sample shipping, skilled personnel, tedious sample preparation and a fully equipped laboratory, can be done by patients themselves within minutes. LUCENTIX has validated its technology with samples from patients treated with anti-cancer agents in collaboration with the University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV). A very good correlation with the gold standard laboratory test was obtained.

DERMOLOCKIN
DERMOLOCKIN GmbH is a spin-off company of the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW).The company develops and commercializes active thermography-based systems for dermatological applications. DERMOLOCKIN is a new medical infrared imaging diagnostic device for dermatological applications. It allows measuring and imaging very small variations of the skin thermo-physical properties in a non-invasive and non-contact manner. Although active thermal imaging has recently demonstrated great capabilities for the early diagnostic of cutaneous cancerous lesions, DERMOLOCKIN specifically focuses on the determination of the lateral extension and penetration depth of melanoma and NMSC. The aim of the device is to allow dermatologists to see under the skin surface for an improved diagnostic and treatment of skin cancer.

Bitsplitters
The ETH Zürich spin-offs Bitsplitters developing wearable UV awareness technology for daily life under the brand name sunbeat. Due to the increasing effects of UV radiations on humanskin and the increasing number of skin cancer, the start-up developed a UV tracking sensor, Sunbeat to enable users to know how much UV radiation they are exposed to. Sunbeat is a small sensor that can be integrated into clothes, hats, and sunglasses such that the user is able to track the UV radiation and also renders immediate feedback on the user’s smartphone.  The sensor is wearable, washable, and has wireless connection to the smartphone. In addition, its mobile app offers data interpretation and visualization. This patented sensing technology embedded in Sunbeat was established as a result of a research project at ETH Zürich in collaboration with dermatologists.