News
March 7, 2025
Three female-led start-ups that emerged from the EIT Jumpstarter programme exemplify the power of innovation, resilience, and determination. We spoke with the founders of Lightly Technologies, Neofunction, and Apixmed, who shared their journeys, challenges, and successes. Their inspiring stories prove that the future of entrepreneurship is diverse, inclusive, and filled with opportunity.
Monika is a founder of Lightly Technologies. This is a deep-tech start-up that has developed Catcher, a portable device designed to help law enforcement quickly identify counterfeit medicines and trace them to their source in under ten minutes. With a global database integration, Catcher enhances tracking and cross-matching capabilities for law enforcement agencies.
“My passion for start-ups began during my undergraduate studies. The idea of a fast-paced, dynamic team where I could grow quickly excited me far more than a rigid corporate structure. My first real experience came at a start-up in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, where I fell in love with the competitive yet supportive environment. After exiting my first start-up, I co-founded Lightly, further solidifying my belief that this was my path.”
“Entrepreneurship is still male-dominated, and gaining credibility as a woman often takes extra effort. I’ve had to prove my expertise in ways that seemed easier for men. However, the landscape is changing, with more grants and mentorship programmes supporting women. With persistence and a strong network, I am learning to navigate this space and help shape its future.”
Since its inception, Lightly has secured grants and funding, including winning EIT Jumpstarter and EIT InnoStars Awards. Collaborating with European and U.S. law enforcement agencies has validated its technology, strengthening its credibility and market position.
“Don’t be afraid of mistakes—fail fast and learn quickly. Surround yourself with founders who understand the struggles of entrepreneurship. With the right network, the journey becomes easier to navigate.”
Olga, founder of Neofunction, has developed Neo Pill, an advanced electrolysis-based solution designed to improve oral hygiene for orthodontic patients. By integrating scientific research with user-friendly technology, Neofunction is changing how patients maintain oral health.
“My journey into the start-up world began two years ago after a long career in the pharmaceutical industry. Instead of waiting for an established company to address the issue of oral hygiene for orthodontic patients, I took the entrepreneurial leap. My background in healthcare and business enabled me to see an unmet need and take action.”
“Like many women in MedTech, I have encountered scepticism and had to prove myself in a male-dominated industry. Most of the time, I am the only woman at the decision-making table. However, I turned these challenges into strengths by staying persistent and surrounding myself with strong mentors and allies.”
Neofunction has successfully expanded into multiple markets, secured strategic partnerships, and progressed through regulatory approvals in the U.S. and Europe. Their collaboration with the EIT SPICE programme is accelerating the commercialisation of Neo Pill globally.
“Believe in yourself and your vision. Build a strong network, be persistent, and don’t wait for validation—create it. Every setback is a step forward if you take it as a lesson.”
Maryna is a founder of Apixmed, a virtual assistant for personalised health management. Using AI-driven medical data analysis, Apixmed empowers doctors and patients with tailored treatment recommendations, integrating genetic insights, medical history, and research for better outcomes.
“Advanced medical technologies exist, but they’re not reaching the people who need them most. As a scientist, I saw firsthand how fragmented and complex medical data analysis could be, making personalised treatment difficult to implement at scale. Rather than waiting for someone else to solve the problem, I built a team of experts to create a tool that simplifies medical and genetic analysis.”
“One of the biggest challenges has been overcoming scepticism as a woman in deep tech and healthcare. I stayed focused on my goal and let results do the talking. By building a strong foundation with data, traction, and a clear vision, I ensured that the right people couldn’t ignore the impact of my work.”
Apixmed has already provided personalised treatment insights to over 7,000 patients, secured partnerships with hospitals, and gained recognition from CCI France Ukraine. Their participation in acceleration programmes is expanding their global business strategy.
“Forget the idea that you need to be ready before you start. The best leaders figure things out as they go. Build real alliances, embrace discomfort, and chase the moments that push you beyond your limits. Those are the ones that change everything.”
These founders are not just building successful start-ups—they are paving the way for future women entrepreneurs. Their journeys remind us that breaking barriers is not about waiting for permission but about creating new paths and pushing boundaries.
Our message to all aspiring women entrepreneurs:
Keep pushing forward, challenging the norms, and building the future you envision. The start-up world is evolving, and your contributions will shape its future. EIT Programmes are here to help you take the leap into this world!
