ROM InWest and Nascent Ventures Invest €5M in Amsterdam Microscopy Firm
Amsterdam, Thursday, 23 January 2025.
Dutch firms ROM InWest and Nascent Ventures have invested €5 million in Confocal.nl to advance live-cell microscopy, boosting global competitiveness in medical technology innovation.
Groundbreaking Investment in Medical Technology
This strategic investment represents a significant advancement in healthtech, specifically in the field of cellular imaging technology. Amsterdam-based Confocal.nl, led by CEO Pim Vos, develops advanced microscopes that enable scientists to study living cells more efficiently using minimal laser light at high resolution [1]. The technology prevents cells from behaving abnormally, fading, or dying prematurely, allowing for longer and more precise studies of cellular processes [1].
Revolutionary Approach to Cell Research
The microscopy platform makes complex confocal microscopy more accessible and suitable for a broader group of scientists, which is crucial for research into new medicines and treatments for complex diseases [1]. According to Janet Nieboer, CEO of ROM InWest, this live cell imaging technology shows particular promise in the fight against diseases such as cancer, while potentially contributing to lower healthcare costs [1].
Global Expansion and Technical Advancement
With the new funding, Confocal.nl plans to further automate their products and expand their international presence, particularly in Europe and the United States [1]. The company’s technology focuses on providing super resolution microscopes that enable deep live cell imaging beyond the diffraction limit, using only nanowatts of power [6]. This approach significantly reduces the risk of phototoxicity and photobleaching, which are common challenges in cellular research [6][7].
Strategic Partnership Network
The investment consortium includes notable partners such as the Rabobank Startup & Scale-up team, RVO Innovatiekrediet, VCC TechNanoFund, ECFG, University of Amsterdam Ventures, and Innovatiefonds Noord-Holland [1]. This investment aligns with ROM InWest’s mission to support innovative companies contributing to a sustainable and social economy in North Holland [2].