“Thanks to CRAASH Barcelona we are one step closer to success”

The company Flomics, based in Barcelona, is developing a new diagnostic test for the early-detection of cancer and other complex diseases. Its technology combines cell-free RNA sequencing with automated analysis by machine learning. From a simple blood sample it aims to detect molecular warning signs of the disease, even before the first symptoms appear.

Flomics was one of the ten European projects chosen to to participate in the 2nd edition of CRAASH Barcelona, the acceleration program Biocat organized in collaboration with CIMIT (Boston) which is part of the bootcamp programs run by EIT Health.

Biocat has opened the call for applications to the 3rd edition of CRAASH Barcelona, a 12-week acceleration program that helps research teams from Catalonia and other European countries successfully launch innovation to market in the healthtech arena. The deadline for applications is 16 March. The program is looking for projects with cutting-edge technology (diagnostics, devices or e-/digital health) from research centers, research institutes or universities in the BioRegion of Catalonia and from all over Europe.

CRAASH Barcelona is open to research projects in the proof-of-concept or proof-of-feasibility phase. Established companies may also apply if they are looking for an application for their technology and/or searching for/validating a business model. The program is free of charge, equity free and offers teams up to €10,000 to cover travel expenses.

João Curado, founder of Flomics, tells us about his experience as a participant in CRAASH Barcelona.

Why did you decide to participate in CRAASH Barcelona?

At that time we were looking for an acceleration program that was focused in early-stage startups with a clear route to the market. The combination of the stellar mentors and the feedback received by the previous CRAASH Barcelona participants made it obvious that we should be there. It was a no-brainer.

How has CRAASH Barcelona helped you to evolve the project?

It helped us understanding the market we were entering, to identify all the players and to define the needed value proposition for each one of them. Within the project we completely changed our positioning. It also gave us contacts that are real enablers in the field. Everything together we believed we are one step closer to success.

What do you like the most from the program?

The interaction with the mentors was invaluable. The fact that we were meeting (and presenting) every week was demanding but also made us progress continuously.

How was the experience of presenting the project in Boston?

Boston is probably the most mature ecosystem for healthcare entrepreneurship. It was great to meet local key players and to have a feeling of why they are so successfully overall there. This was only our first step there but we will probably have to go back some day. Now Flomics already laid the first stone.

Would you recommend other entrepreneurs to participate in CRAASH Barcelona?

I would 100% recommend CRAASH Barcelona for any entrepreneur with a first pilot or proof-of-concept performed and trying to validate the business model, market access strategy or any other assumption. But I would also advise to be prepared to dedicate the proper time to the program.

If you want to follow Flomics’ steps, the call for applications to the 3rd edition of CRAASH Barcelona is open. The deadline for applications is 16 March.