The Venture Codex

Participated · Series A · Jun 2025

PhotonPath develops scalable integrated photonics chipsets and plug-and-play modules, including the NanoOCM Spectrum Analyser, a compact high-resolution optical spectrum analyzer. Its product portfolio also includes the Spectre reconfigurable optical sensing platform for precise temperature and strain monitoring in harsh environments. The company has pilot deployments and a co-developed automotive optical sensor with an automotive braking-systems investor, and a proof-of-concept installation in the Netherlands utilities sector. PhotonPath is a fabless spin‑off from Politecnico di Milano (founded 2019) and works with local and specialised global supply‑chain partners, while building European supplier relationships for defence-sector customers. The market for integrated photonics is approaching a tipping point driven by data‑centre and networking demand, and PhotonPath is aligning its roadmap to target those short‑reach, high‑bandwidth applications. It raised a Series A to scale production, expand manufacturing partnerships, build in‑house calibration and quality control, grow its commercial team, and accelerate its product roadmap.

Participated · Seed · Mar 2024

Cynomys develops a patented system for continuous monitoring of environmental conditions in livestock facilities, tracking more than 30 parameters in real time. The company uses big data to support animal welfare and sustainability in the livestock supply chain. Cynomys will use the newly raised funds to strengthen its existing monitoring technology and translate improvements into tangible gains in animal well-being. The startup also plans to expand its presence in global markets and pursue new market opportunities. Cynomys already counts first customers in over 17 countries and emphasizes a One Health, sustainability-driven approach to agri-tech innovation. The company is presented in the article as a Genoa-based innovator focused on ethical, sustainable animal husbandry practices. Cynomys develops devices for monitoring air quality in offices and in animal farming. The company completed an equity crowdfunding campaign that reached €414,030 in total. The online portion on CrowdFundMe raised €268,530, while an offline tranche from 11 investors contributed €145,500. Business angel groups Impact Angels and Angels4Women participated in the raise. The campaign was conducted both online and offline. For more information the article refers readers to Cynomys's website.