Meet the imec.istart Summer 2025 cohort

Tech innovation doesn’t take a summer break – meet our class of game-changers! 
 
Our Summer 2025 cohort brings together nine bold startups joining the imec.istart program. From AI-powered insights to safer roads, smarter workflows, and more immersive experiences, these founders are turning complexity into clarity—and ambition into action. 
 
Backed by funding, expert support, and a global network, they’re set to shape what’s next. Let’s explore the trends driving this new wave—and meet the teams leading the charge! 

 

Trends & Observations 

AI in action 

This cohort reflects a shift in how AI is being used: not as the headline feature, but as a practical enabler behind the scenes. 
 
Many of these startups are building AI to streamline workflows, personalize experiences, and extract valuable insights from complex data. It’s less about hype and more about solving real, everyday problems. 
 
Plus, with AI-powered coding tools becoming increasingly accessible, startups can now prototype and iterate much faster—bringing impactful solutions to market with more speed and agility. 

 

Rising demand for workflow simplification

Startups are addressing complexity in workflows and turning chaotic processes into structured systems: 
Cerebro, LocaNest, Nova Reply, VirtualProducts.
 
There is a strong emphasis on productivity software and intelligent workflow design—a growing demand across industries overwhelmed by tools and data. 

 

Immersive and interactive experiences 
 
There is a notable push toward more interactive and immersive content, in entertainment, as well as in edtech, and sales: Ambrio, VirtualProducts, Maeve 
 
As consumer expectations shift, businesses are seeking ways to enhance engagement through immersion—in sound, visuals, or user experience. 

 

Safety and trust as core value propositions 

Some startups center their offering on trust, safety, and compliance: Detecte, NextSDS, Nova Reply 
 
These solutions show a growing focus on improving safety, staying compliant with regulations, and protecting a company’s reputation.

 

Meet the startups! 

 

AMBRIO (domain: Entertainment): builds intuitive hardware and software that gives DJs and live performers real-time control over spatial audio—making immersive sound experiences seamless and accessible. 

CEREBRO (domain: HealthTech): helps general practitioners delegate and outsource care tasks through smart digital workflows — improving efficiency while ensuring quality patient care. 

DETECTE (domain: Mobility): prevents distraction and risky driving by combining a smart phone holder with sensor-based monitoring through the driver’s own smartphone. 

NOVA REPLY (domain: Business Services): is a SaaS platform that automates and personalizes online review management across platforms like Google, TripAdvisor, and Trustpilot. 

LOCANEST (domain: Gaming): simplifies game localization by turning spreadsheets into structured, collaborative workflows, streamlining the process for development teams. 

MAEVE (domain: EdTech): helps students prepare for exams with personalized, AI-powered support that adapts to individual learning needs. 

METAGEM (domain: Business Services): builds customer-owned knowledge graphs—a portable “metadata spine” that helps business users and AI agents understand and connect internal data.  

NEXTSDS (domain: Business Services): uses AI to transform complex chemical Safety Data Sheets into clear, actionable insights – ensuring safer handling and compliance across the entire supply chain. 

VIRTUALPRODUCTS (domain: Construction): empowers sales teams of complex, made-to-order products—like swimming pools—to co-create 3D visualizations with customers and auto-generate all required technical and sales documents.  

 

Want to be part of the next cohort? 

Are you building a high-impact tech startup? Join our imec.istart accelerator program and gain access to pre-seed funding starting at €100K, coaching & mentorship, and a vibrant community of like-minded entrepreneurs. 

We hold three open calls per year: 
> Spring Open Call – apply by February 1 
> Summer Open Call – apply by June 1 
> Autumn Open Call – apply by October 1 

Register now for our upcoming online info session webinar about our program.