Ticino-based iWin receives CHF 150’000

Buildings are one of the largest energy consumers in Europe, yet traditional rooftop photovoltaic solutions do not meet the energy requirements of multi-story buildings. The use of transparent facades in highly glazed buildings usually comes with a higher operational cost, as the incoming solar radiation is inadequately managed and causes overheating. The conventional internal blinds improve visual comfort but keep the solar heat in the indoor space and require additional cooling.

iWin co-founders Ruben Roldan Molinero (CEO), Francesco Frontini (COO), Paolo Corti (CPO), and Diego Porzio (CSO) are tackling a CHF 9 billion opportunity to make the global real estate market more sustainable. The team is developing a unique product that transforms multi-story and highly glazed buildings into power plants and preserves their aesthetic standard. With its patent-pending solution—consisting of a smart photovoltaic Venetian blind sealed inside an insulating glass unit—iWin combines renewable energy production, light and solar control, and a high-quality window in one single component. The device is maintenance-free and ensures total protection against dirt, dust, or weather conditions. 

iWin’s final customers are real estate developers, building owners and public authorities. The proptech startup filed its first international patent in 2018, and the first working prototype has been measured and validated at the University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland. Early this September, iWin installed the first mock-up of its solution adding value to the existing Windows of the Valuxlab house in Milano. Three innovative Windows have been installed with fully integrated blinds.

The newly obtained CHF 150,000 Venture Kick funding will enable iWin to finalize a minimum viable product that allows the startup to enter the market.

“The boost received by Venture Kick was incredible. It is not just about the excellent network or the financial support but also the personal and professional growth during the acceleration program,” said Paolo Corti, co-founder and CPO. 

(Press release/RAN)