Deep-tech in demand

Dear reader

The business success of the future depends on the ability to deal intelligently with data. This is no longer just about digitalising existing processes: cryptography, data science and artificial intelligence (AI) have the potential to dissolve old value chains and create new ones. That’s why three years ago British venture capital firm Tällt Ventures launched Disrupt 100, an annual ranking of start-ups that have the potential to change the economy. The jury is made up of brands including Google and tech accelerators such as Microsoft Ventures.

This year, a Swiss company took first place: Sophia Genetics. The Vaud-based company is a pioneer in the market for data-driven medicine. It evaluates the genetic material of patients from hundreds of hospitals around the globe and provides guidance on personalised therapies.

VISA’s Everywhere Initiative also deals with data. The credit card company is now explicitly addressing German-speaking companies with its open innovation programme. The goal is to build an innovation eco-system around cashless payment, with the technological focus on the Internet of Things.

The intelligent handling of sensor data is Rapyuta Robotics’ core business. The company is developing an SaaS platform with various AI and control tools to link machines to sensors and databases. Now, the ETH spin-off has collected USD 9.5 million of venture capital in a Series B financing round.

Financing rounds also took place during this abbreviated summer week at two medtech companies: Geneva-based ABCDx and Zurich-based Vivior. In both cases, the amount of funding was not disclosed.

Two registration deadlines expire this week: entries for the StartCup Ticino must be submitted by Sunday, and visitors to the 54th SICTIC Investor Day on 4 September must register by Tuesday.

Have a cool weekend.

Jost Dubacher
Editor startupticker.ch