Meet Mantis Photonics AB - an ESA BIC Sweden Incubatee!
What does your company do and what’s the space connection?
Mantis Photonics wants to make its patented camera hyperspectral camera available to patients for health screening by imaging the retina.
In the same way a satellite can determine detailed information about the earth's surface from a large distance with a detailed camera, our camera allows you to deliver information about the health of your eye and the rest of your body by taking images of the back of your eye. The eye is the window to your health!
With our technology, retinal imaging is not only safe and fast, but also completely non-invasive, ensuring your comfort and peace of mind.
How and when did your startup journey begin?
Mantis Photonics started in 2021 at Lund University. The company was started by dr Diego Guénot while working in the laboratory of professor Anne L'Huillier.
Which obstacles have you met and how have you handled them?
Mantis Photonics is building a medical product. This is difficult due to the strict Medical Device Regulation (MDR), the long development time and the requirement to manufacture and distribution the devices according to the regulatory standards. We have established a board of directors with a wide expertise range, including an ophthalmologist, an expert in medical law and regulation and an expert in company management.
What have you gained by being an incubatee at ESA BIC Sweden?
ESA supports us with a grant and allowed us to expand our network and gain exposure for our product. I was able to pitch at the EBAN conference in Brussels. I even won the pitch competition. The validation of a highly respected institute like ESA is a quality reference for investors.
Why do you think others should apply to EBS? What's in it for startups?
ESA allows you to gain exposure for your idea and to widen your network of investors.
What do you think about the space market - what’s happening now and how will it change?
The space market is expanding fast and will gain commercial importance in the future. The collaborations between government organisations and commercial companies is fascinating.
Read about Mantis Photonics: https://mantis-photonics.com/