Xemperia wins the IFF Start-Up Award
Share this article
The Innovation Fribourg Freiburg (IFF) 2024-2025 Prizes were awarded on 6 November 2024. Xemperia, a University of Fribourg spin-off won the Start-Up Award worth CHF 30’000.
Xemperia won the highest number of votes in a selection process that combined the choices of the jury (one-third) and the public (two-thirds). Since the announcement of the finalists on 2 October 2024, the public has been able to vote online, while viewers present at the November 6 ceremony, as well as those following the event live on La Télé, also contributed to the final result.
Founded in 2023 and based in Bulle, this University of Fribourg spin-off has developed an innovative blood test for breast cancer screening, inspired by the natural immune response. This unique test detects biomarkers in modified immune cells in the presence of cancer cells, offering a more accurate, affordable and accessible alternative to mammography, without exposure to X-rays. Based on PCR technology, it can be performed using a simple blood test, enabling women under 50, who are often excluded from traditional screening, to benefit from early detection.
Two other projects were awarded. The IFF Enterprise Prize was awarded to Contrinex, based in Corminboeuf, while the IFF Sustainability Prize went to ROMAG aquacare in Guin.
📸 © Xemperia. From left to right, Eline De Muynck, Prof. Curzio Ruegg (CEO/CSO), Sarah Cattin (CTO), Ivana Domljanovic (Scientist)
➡️ Source: Prix IFF