NWO Take-off Approvals 2025 for four Amsterdam UMC projects
Four innovative projects from the Amsterdam UMC have been successfully awarded a NWO Take-off grant (coming out of the Fall 2024 round). It’s exciting news for these academics, because it marks the start of exploring the feasibility and commercial potential of their science-based ideas and even consider starting businesses based on their innovations. What are these innovations about?
SuperVision: regenerative therapy for blinding retinal diseases, Celine Koster
SupraVision is developing a new implant that replaces damaged retinal tissue to restore vision. The team blends expertise to improve life quality for people with blinding conditions, with a primary focus on age-related macular degeneration.
Smart vaccine carrier against cancer, Alsya Affandi
Alsya Affandi and team are developing a nanobody-based technology to deliver vaccines directly to ‘teacher cells’ to increase vaccine effectiveness. This smart vaccine will lead to a stronger immune response against cancer.
AI-based EEG analysis, Fleur van Rootselaar
Fleur van Rootselaar is exploring the market potential of AI-driven software that analyzes EEG data to predict outcomes for ICU patients in post-anoxic coma. Ultimately, this type of software could enhance efficiency, accessibility, and clinical adoption.
More effective immunotherapy for cancer patients, Arnon Kater
Arnon Kater is working towards an “off-the-shelf” therapy for easier and more effective immunotherapy for cancer patients. The innovation is about multispecific antibodies that guide T cells directly to cancer cells to destroy these.
Active scouting role by IXA
At Innovation Exchange Amsterdam (IXA), the NWO Take-off grants are seen as crucial tools for valorisation. IXA’s Business Developers actively scout for eligible projects throughout the year, providing researchers with support in proposition development, business case formulation, and application processes. They also assist in obtaining support letters from external parties.
