Crowdfunding and Nanotechnology: A Perfect Match?
Nanotechnology, the intricate art of manipulating matter on an atomic and molecular scale, has for years been recognized for its transformative potential. From breakthroughs in medicine to energy efficiency, it promises revolutionary changes.
However, its development faces a consistent stumbling block: funding. Traditional investment avenues often perceive it as too complex or long-term, limiting the scope of what could be a game-changing innovation.
The Crowdfunding Evolution
Crowdfunding emerges as a potential game-changer for nanotechnology. Rather than being dependent on a select group of investors, it harnesses the combined strength of global communities for financial backing.
Crowdfunding platforms or self-hosted and regulated ‘invest now’ technology on your own website allows nanotech companies to pitch their nanotech investments directly to the public. By democratising the funding process, these platforms provide an alternative financial avenue, potentially fast-tracking projects that would otherwise languish in the wait for traditional funding.
The World Nano Foundation an international not-for-profit organisation has an investment platform solution called ‘Investinnano.com’ and can support companies to position themself ready for investment or marketing to an equity crowdfunding campaign for correct investment through accredited, retail, angel or institutional investors. This platform has helped to raise over $100 million for enabling technology companies and nanoscale startups.
This approach can be applied to various nanotech projects. From healthcare innovations like targeted drug delivery systems to green energy solutions such as efficient solar panels, crowdfunding offers an avenue for diverse sectors within nanotechnology.
Despite the promise, there are significant hurdles. The regulatory landscape for nanotechnology is complex, ensuring safety remains paramount. The R&D costs are substantial, and results, especially in the initial stages, can be unproven. Established entities in the research domain might also view crowdfunding with skepticism, considering it less rigorous or robust than traditional funding avenues.
Yet, even amid these obstacles, the sector's economic potential is strikingly evident.
As per a study by Precedence Research, the global nanotechnology market was valued at approximately US$ 85.39 billion in 2021. Projections suggest it will surpass US$ 288.71 billion by 2030, experiencing a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 14.5% between 2022 and 2030.
The research further highlights, “It is a revolutionary and a highly useful technology that is used in all industrial verticals such as pharmaceuticals, transportation, agriculture, communication, manufacturing, and other industries.”
Spotlight on Startups
In the world of startups, several are making significant strides by capitalizing on this unique opportunity.
Leading the charge in the startup landscape is Evox Therapeutics. Renowned for their expertise in exosome-based treatments, they cater to an array of diseases. Their intellectual prowess is anchored in their extensive portfolio on EV-based delivery technologies for proteins and nucleic acids.
Evox's financial track record is equally impressive. With a total of USD 156 million secured over six funding rounds, their 2021 round was particularly striking, drawing in a significant USD 90 million. Such robust backing accentuates the investor community's faith in Evox's novel therapeutic innovations.
Transitioning from Evox's groundbreaking approach, we spotlight Biological Dynamics. Venturing into the realm of nanoparticle science, they have championed the ACE lab-on-chip (LOC) platform, refining the process of nanoparticle isolation directly from physiological solutions.
Throughout their journey, they've clinched seven funding rounds, accumulating over USD 67 million. The 2022 funding round was notably successful, pulling in USD 26 million, reflecting the rising investor confidence in their potential and ingenuity.
Axio emerges as another significant player. Their specialization lies in crafting biomaterials-driven medical devices dedicated to wound care. Financially, Axio has demonstrated impressive vigor, consolidating over USD 20 million across six funding rounds. Their 2021 round, which brought in USD 6 million, serves as a testament to the faith of the investment community in Axio's capacity to redefine healthcare solutions.
Conclusion
The fusion of crowdfunding and nanotechnology promises a brighter future for scientific innovations. As the sector evolves, we might witness more integrated platforms catering specifically to nanotech, possibly even dedicated incubators or accelerators that leverage community-driven financial support.
By embracing this financial renaissance, nanotechnology stands to not only achieve its potential breakthroughs but also revolutionize the very way scientific innovations are funded and brought to the forefront.
Author:
Arnold Kristoff
Content Producer and Writer
Nano Magazine
