Strategic Funding: More than just capital

Solid IO closed its first equity funding round immediately after spinning out from the University of Helsinki. For a deep-tech startup like Solid IO, engaging pre-seed investors meant more than securing funds – it was about finding partners who not only shared their vision but were willing to roll their sleeves together with the founding team. In the emerging field of organ-on-chip technology, NordicScience Investments (NSI) and BSV Ventures’ support marked a pivotal step toward advancing precision oncology.

The Right Partners for Scaling Innovation

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CEO and co-founder Noora Hujala sees early equity investment as essential. “Organ-on-chip-based precision diagnostics in immuno-oncology is advancing rapidly, and early funding is crucial to maintain momentum,” she explains. “NSI and BSV bring not just funding but deep expertise in commercialization and venture building.”

NSI and BSVVentures bring complementary expertise in commercializing deep-tech and science-driven innovations – both taking a hands-on approach. “We invest in companies with strong science and scalable potential,” says Sandra Golbreich of BSV. “Solid IO has one of the strongest teams in this space.”

A New Era in Cancer Diagnostics with Organ-on-Chip Technology

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Solid IO’s tumor-on-chip technology replicates a patient’s tumor microenvironment, enabling precise predictions of treatment responses. The platform supports scalable precision diagnostics across multiple cancer types by integrating bioengineering and AI.

“Only a handful of experts globally understand how to work with organoids and patient-derived immune cells,” Alexandra Gylfe from NSI notes. “Solid IO is at the forefront, capitalizing on advances in microfluidics and precision medicine at the right time.”

Scientific Validation: From Research to Real-World Impact

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Scientific credibility is key for investors. Solid IO’s peer-reviewed study demonstrated its ability to predict immunotherapy responses and identify novel biomarkers. “This isn’t just an idea – it’s a validated innovation with real patient impact,” says Golbreich. "The combination of strong scientific backing and a leadership team with deep expertise made this an easy decision for us."

Gylfe adds, “Replicating a patient’s immune system and tumor microenvironment on a chip is a major step toward more effective, targeted treatments.”

Fueling Growth

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“In the coming months, we are focused on key partnerships and clinical validation,” Hujala states. “This funding allows us to bring in top-tier expertise while keeping our team focused on research, business development and execution.”

Golbreich highlights broader industry implications: “SolidIO is uniquely positioned not only to advance precision diagnostics but also to support pharmaceutical companies in accelerating drug development. This technology could reduce both the time and cost of bringing immuno-oncology drugs to patients.”

Bridging the Gap from Lab to Market

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What made this partnership work was more than capital – it was ashared commitment. “NSI and BSV didn’t just invest; they brought deep expertise and a hands-on approach,” says Hujala.

“Alexandra immediately grasped our vision, and BSV’s coaching mindset truly stood out,” she adds. “They’re truly committed to strengthening us across critical areas.”

Beyond funding, NSI and BSV actively guide Solid IO’s transition from research to commercialization. “We bridge the gap between lab and market,” says Golbreich. Gylfe adds, “We actively mentor and strategize with the team – commercialization requires the right partners.”

Advancing Precision Oncology for Better Patient Outcomes

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Hujala envisions Solid IO making a significant impact. “Our technology will help more cancer patients benefit from immunotherapies by accelerating drug development and improving treatment selection.”

“In five years, we see Solid IO as a recognized name in leading cancer treatment centers,” she says. “Our solutions will have extended lives and improved outcomes, supported by best-in-class partners.”

Golbreich emphasizes the shift toward personalized oncology.“By providing real-time, patient-specific data, Solid IO is driving a future where every patient receives the most effective therapy for their unique tumor profile.”

With strategic investors who believe in their mission, SolidIO is well-positioned to push the boundaries of precision medicine – turning breakthrough science into real-world solutions.

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About 

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Solid IO operates at the crossroads of medtech, biotech, and deep tech – advancing organ-on-chip technology for precision oncology and immunotherapy. By replicating patient-specific tumor environments, we provide real-time insights that optimize treatment decisions, refine clinical trial design, and accelerate drug development. With a mission to end the guesswork in cancer care, Solid IO is redefining the future of immuno-oncology and precision medicine.

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Nordic Science Investments (NSI) was founded to bridge the funding gap for early-stage science-driven startups. With deep expertise, the NSI team supports university research teams turn their groundbreaking inventions into commercial success stories.

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BSV Ventures is a venture capital fund specialising in Deep Tech, Life Science, and Dual-Use investments. With a focus on breakthrough critical technologies and a strong commitment to the Baltic Sea region (Nordics, Baltics, and CEE), BSV empowers entrepreneurs to solve global challenges and drive technological advancements across diverse industries.

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