Swiss cleantech startup Apolarion, a spin-off from EPFL, has received €164,000 (CHF 150,000) in funding from Venture Kick. The funding will help the company develop its chemical-free technology for treating seeds.
Founded by Jesus Poley and Luke Simons, Apolarion is developing a modular device that uses cold atmospheric plasma to remove harmful microorganisms from seeds without using chemicals.
Protecting seeds from diseases is important for healthy crops and better harvests. However, traditional seed treatments often use chemical coatings that can leave harmful substances in the soil. Heat-based treatments are another option, but they consume a lot of energy and may not always work effectively. These challenges have increased the demand for safer and more sustainable seed treatment methods.
Apolarion aims to offer an alternative using only air and electricity. Its technology creates reactive particles that help kill harmful microorganisms while keeping the seeds healthy and able to grow. The device is also designed to use less energy and can be adapted for different seed treatment needs.
The company is initially targeting the Swiss and European markets. It aims to work with seed treatment companies and help them protect crops using more sustainable methods while supporting better agricultural yields.
Commenting on the support received from Venture Kick, Luke Simons, CEO and co-founder of Apolarion, said: “The Venture Kick program has been so important in our journey. It introduced us to the startup network in Switzerland and gave us access to world-class training, coaching and advisors, helping achieve the early successes of Apolarion.”
The funding will help Apolarion carry out its first field trials and introduce its technology to early customers. This will allow the company to test its seed treatment solution in real farming conditions.
The company will also use the money to support its operations, buy equipment and hire the staff needed to run pilot projects. These steps will help Apolarion prepare to enter the market and further improve its technology.
