Accelerating drug discovery using artificial intelligence, while cutting lead times and costs: that's the ambitious challenge taken up by Helical-AI, a Luxembourg startup that has quickly caused a sensation. Helical-AI won the Cyel 2024 competition, organised by Junior Chamber International and held at the Chamber of Commerce, coming in ahead of Easybiz, which specialises in administrative simplification for entrepreneurs, and Uplift360, an innovator in the chemical recycling of advanced materials.
Helical-AI, founded in 2023 by , and Mathieu Klop, won over the jury with its revolutionary platform based on artificial intelligence. The startup uses DNA and RNA data to develop advanced biological models capable of accelerating drug development while reducing costs. With its ‘AI agents’, Helical-AI helps pharmaceutical companies to identify therapeutic targets, discover biomarkers and optimise clinical trials. In 2024, it raised €2.2m to strengthen its development and double its workforce.
The three co-founders, who come from complementary fields combining medicine and engineering, share a common vision: to democratise access to high-performance AI tools for players in the sector. The collaboration with the Luxembourg supercomputer Meluxina illustrates their desire to combine technological innovation and local infrastructure to position Luxembourg as a biotechnology hub.
Easybiz: simplifying entrepreneurship
Easybiz, the second prize-winner, stood out for its digital platform dedicated to entrepreneurs. Founded by Daniil Kirikov, the startup automates administrative procedures, from setting up a business to managing accounts. With a 100% online model, Easybiz aims to free entrepreneurs from red tape, allowing them to concentrate on developing their business.
Uplift360: a circular economy model
Third place went to Uplift360, which specialises in the chemical recycling of industrial materials such as bullet-proof vest fibres. The company, which operates inn Luxembourg and the UK, transforms the waste into reusable materials for demanding sectors such as aerospace and defence. With its sustainable and innovative approach, Uplift360 says it is contributing to a circular economy while reducing its environmental footprint.
A Public Choice Award for Moveme
For the first time, a Public Choice Award was presented at the event. Guests voted for their favourite startup from among the ten finalists after viewing presentation videos. The winner was Moveme, founded by Henry and Cesar Fernandez and specialising in relocation solutions.
Read the original French-language version of this news report /