Approxima 
With a sharp focus on heart health, Milan-based Approxima is tackling tricuspid regurgitation (TR)—a condition impacting millions globally. Their percutaneous valve repair system uniquely targets the root cause of TR by reshaping the right ventricle. Supported by strong preclinical data and IP in key markets, Approxima is on track to launch clinical studies in the EU and US. Their ambition? A next-generation Class III cardiovascular implant that redefines simplicity and safety in structural heart interventions. 

Ivy Medical 
Ivy Medical is changing the way infusion therapy is delivered with the Ivy Duo+. This next-generation infusion pump, powered by intelligent software, automates workflows and minimizes alarms. It supports nurses by improving efficiency, freeing up valuable time. As healthcare systems face increasing staffing challenges, Ivy Medical enables hospitals to deliver safe, effective infusion therapy with fewer resources. 

Implican 
Born out of the University Medical Center Groningen, Implican is answering a long-standing surgical challenge: anastomotic leakage in colorectal surgery. Their smart implant system—two rings and a reusable applicator—promotes clean wound healing and precise tissue approximation. With a sustainable business model and strong preclinical performance, Implican is preparing for its first-in-human trials in 2025. 

OctoVascular 
OctoVascular is aiming to modernize cardiac bypass surgery with an automated anastomotic device. The minimally invasive, reloadable system simplifies vessel connection and promises faster recovery, shorter hospital stays, and more consistent outcomes for patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. Their innovation has the potential to change the landscape of cardiovascular surgery. 

LivingMed Biotech 
On a mission to fight viral threats in animals and humans, LivingMed is developing the world’s first oral vaccine for avian influenza. Easy to administer and scalable, this game-changing solution could revolutionize poultry farming, reduce zoonotic risk, and bolster global health resilience. With a market potential exceeding €10 billion, LivingMed is leading the charge in veterinary immunization. 

SmadMinX 
Founded by leading cancer researcher Prof. Dr. Krishnadath, SmadMinX targets one of oncology’s biggest unmet needs: metastasis prevention. Using Llama-derived antibodies (VHHs), their platform blocks critical cancer signaling pathways in SMAD4-mutant cancers. With strong preclinical results and no observed toxicity, SmadMinX is positioned to bring a first-in-class therapy to a €2.6 billion market. 

XS Innovations 
XS Innovations is changing the game for dialysis patients with a novel implantable valve that regulates blood flow through an arteriovenous fistula. By preventing constant high-flow pressure, their device addresses one of the leading causes of dialysis-related complications. Having already shown success in animal models, XS Innovations is on track for First-in-Human trials by 2026. 

Predica Diagnostics 
Improving women’s health through precision diagnostics, Predica’s flagship product, CervicaDx, uses targeted RNA sequencing to identify cervical abnormalities early and non-invasively. Developed at RadboudUMC, the test reduces overdiagnosis, streamlines referrals, and alleviates stress for HPV-positive women. Predica plans to expand its platform across other women’s health indications, ushering in a new era of personalized screening. 

Surgical Reality 
Surgical Reality is empowering surgeons with instant, patient-specific 3D imaging—right inside the OR. Using AI and advanced computer vision, their platform provides high-resolution models without cloud processing, ensuring security and compliance. With active pilots in six Dutch hospitals and early traction in Germany and the US, they’re gearing up for CE certification and their next growth phase. 

A Launchpad for the Future 

Each of these nine finalists stood out for their bold vision, rigorous science, and strong entrepreneurial drive. Their stories reflect the diversity and depth of innovation alive in Europe’s health and biotech sectors today. 

Are you building the next game-changing solution in health or life sciences? Don’t miss your chance to connect with top-tier investors, mentors, and partners at the next edition of the Global Investor Forum and Innovation for Health—taking place 25–26 March 2026 in Utrecht. 

For more information see www.hyphenprojects.nl/gif.