Lyon-based HawkCell, a healthtech startup, announced that it has secured €5M in a Series A round of funding led by a German venture capital firm MIG Capital, with participation from French investment bank, Bpifrance.
HawkCell transforms human MRI into the first animal-dedicated imaging with AI algorithms, using its plug-and-play technology for veterinary applications, advancing animal healthcare and preclinical research.
Andreas Kastenbauer, Partner at MIG Capital, says, “The animal health space offers great investment opportunities while helping pets and pet owners achieve a better quality of life.”
“Veterinary clinics increasingly demand innovative solutions to offer the same quality of treatment and services available to humans. With its one-of-a-kind imaging solutions for veterinarians and pre-clinical research, HawkCell will change how we understand and care for animals.”
HawkCell is MIG’s fourth investment in France within three years, following Zadient (2021), Inbolt (2022) and Look Up Space (2023).
Capital utilisation
With the recent funding, HawkCell is poised to scale up its operations, intensify efforts in advancing animal imaging, and venture into the North American pet market.
Alexis Girin, CEO of HawkCell, says, “We are thrilled to have the support of MIG Capital, a highly experienced venture fund led by entrepreneurs with a legacy of funding deep tech and life sciences breakthroughs, which shares our mission to narrow the gap between human and veterinary medicine.”
“Our system has been vetted and approved by experts in AI, neurology, and radiology, and promises to transform veterinary research and care to offer a window into animals’ health with unparalleled clarity.”
MRI solution for better prediction for animals and humans
Founded in 2018 by Hugo Dorez, HawkCell addresses the limitations of veterinary MRI by introducing a system with 3D-printed MRI coils and a proprietary positioner, tailored to animal morphology.
This hardware-software solution, augmented by AI algorithms, enhances image quality, reduces anaesthesia usage, and minimises risks.
The system, compatible with any human MRI, offers veterinarians and researchers improved diagnosis, increased efficiency, and enhanced precision through quicker image acquisition and “unmatched” image quality.
HawkCell claims to have expertise across diverse medical domains, including neurology, cardiology, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal disorders, inflammation, oncology, metabolic diseases, and biocompatibility evaluations.
Brief about MIG Capital
MIG Capital specialises in deep tech and life sciences. With over €730M invested in 50+ startups, their portfolio spans biopharmaceuticals, energy, computing, digital health, and more across German-speaking Europe. Currently, MIG’s portfolio includes 33 companies.
In recent years, the firm has achieved over ten portfolio company sales, including Siltectra (to Infineon) and Hemovent (to MicroPort). Additionally, MIG has facilitated IPOs for companies such as BRAIN, NFON, BioNTech, and Immatics.
01
Not solo: How Xolo aims to help Dutch solopreneurs with its comprehensive business management platform