Three deeptech startups win the i4Challenge

Organised by Basel Area Business & Innovation, the i4Challenge identifies supports companies that are addressing the challenges of industrial transformation. The program provides them with a platform to meet with partners, potential customers and mentors. For this edition, the jury nominated 18 finalists from which it chose six winners. The full list can be found on the website of BaselArea. Three of the winners are from the category startups.  

BLP Digital AG – a spin-off of ETH Zurich uses AI to automate ERP and accounting processes based on documents (goods receipt, invoices). The automatic learning system extracts relevant information from documents using a new combination of computer-based image processing and natural language processing. By integrating the solution into customers’ existing systems and workflows, business processes are accelerated and costs are reduced.

No-Touch Robotics GmbH – has developed a robot that can move small objects without mechanical contact. Small objects, such as those used in the watch industry or in the medtech sector, are detected by grippers with acoustic levitation control.

Tinamu Labs AG, a spin-off of ETH Zurich, has developed a solution that enables the safe use of computer-controlled drones in any environment. Indoor flight paths for repetitive inspection tasks, inventory management and monitoring can be easily defined and automated.

A variety of prizes for the winners
The winners will receive a joint stand with Basel Area Business & Innovation at the Be 4.0 trade fair in Mulhouse, access to the Industry 4.0 network in the Basel Area, and coaching, mentoring and access to co-working spaces at one of the four locations of the Switzerland Innovation Park Basel Area. In addition, they will become annual members of the Société Industrielle de Mulhouse and get access to the network and activities of the project partners of Interreg Oberrhein 4.0.

New Ideas wanted
i4Challenge also invites participants in the “New Ideas” category to apply. This category is open to students, intrapreneurs, entrepreneurs and technical teams. The closing date for applications is November 2, 2020.

(Press release/RAN)