4K-MEMS wins the 2024 BCN Innovation Prize for its infrared chip technology
Tech
1 October 2024
4K-MEMS’ infrared emitters can be used for a variety of applications, from food quality analysis to medical diagnostics. On the picture, from left to right: Matthias Imboden (Chief Executive Officer & Founder) and Ross Stanley (Chief Scientific Officer & Partner) |© BCN
Neuchâtel-based start-up 4K-MEMS has won the prestigious 2024 Prix BCN Innovation, receiving CHF 150,000 to further develop its miniature infrared emitters used in spectroscopy devices.
4K-MEMS, a start-up based in Neuchâtel, has emerged as the winner of the 2024 Prix BCN Innovation, securing CHF 150,000 to support the development of its innovative infrared emitter technology. Held on 24 September 2024 at the Théâtre du Passage in Neuchâtel, the award ceremony recognized the start-up’s unique solution, which enables the creation of miniature spectroscopic devices for various industries.
4K-MEMS specializes in the development of infrared emitters built into tiny chips measuring just one millimeter. These chips can be integrated into smartphones or other consumer devices, enabling applications such as food quality assessment, soil analysis and medical diagnostics. Using infrared technology, the chip detects various materials and gases, including CO2, offering broad potential for both consumer and industrial applications.
The jury, led by Yves Perriard, Professor at EPFL, highlighted the wide range of applications for the 4K-MEMS chip. “The in-depth market analysis, the advanced commercialization strategy and the potential for broad consumer use were key factors in selecting 4K-MEMS as the winner,” said Perriard. The start-up’s solution offers high-tech innovations that can address diverse markets, positioning it for significant future growth.
Two other start-ups were also recognized at the 2024 Awards. Actival, which develops multifunctional dental aligners with antibacterial microfluidic channels, and Cassio-P, which specializes in miniature optical devices using a combination of micro-optics and laser-etched glass, each received CHF 10,000.
The Prix BCN Innovation, awarded annually by the Banque Cantonale Neuchâteloise, rewards innovative projects in the economic and scientific sectors in Neuchâtel. The 2024 ceremony also marked the last event for several long-standing jury members, including President Yves Perriard, and signalled the start of a new chapter for the awards in 2025.
