RefFIT wins CHF 150,000 to develop a no-code model-based analysis solution reducing the need for extensive calibrations in material analysis
29.11.2023
Through its provision of software for analyzing spectroscopic data in material science, RefFIT's approach enables users to apply the tool without requiring expert training, reducing time and costs in data analysis and model development. The startup was awarded CHF 150,000 by Venture Kick, winning the third stage of the program.
 RefFIT’s Co-Founders: Nicole Ruckstuhl, Iris Crassee, and Willem Rischau. ©UNIGE
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Spectroscopic analysis is crucial for deciphering material properties, yet using the data produced during these analyses remains a great challenge due to complex light-material interactions. Widely used in industries for quality control, material identification, and pollution monitoring, existing analysis software often lags behind sophisticated hardware. Current methods are lengthy and expensive, requiring large calibration data. RefFIT revolutionizes this process with an innovative approach. Combining scientific models with machine learning, it enables one-click data analysis and eliminates the need for custom codes or complex statistical models. Its no-code, model-based approach significantly reduces the need for extensive calibrations, resulting in faster, more accurate, and accessible material analysis. This advancement not only boosts data analysis efficiency but also expands applications in manufacturing, semiconductors, photonics, and recycling, all without specialized training.
RefFIT focuses on the environmental sensing, semiconductor, and coatings industries. It caters to engineers and scientists conducting self-analysis and real-time solutions in production processes as well as to spectroscopy hardware manufacturers that can integrate RefFIT with their products. Accessible as a web app and API, RefFIT currently gains over 1,400 new users annually. With more than 400 thousand spectrometers in operation globally, the total addressable market is estimated to be above 1 billion yearly.
RefFIT will invest CHF 150,000 to expand the team and accelerate the development of its advanced web application and API. This investment will enable the launch of three new APIs for hardware manufacturers and the rollout of the web application in 2024. With the financial support received from Venture Kick, these product launches will be accompanied by a marketing strategy set up, representing an important achievement in RefFIT’s journey towards innovation and growth.
The team driving this project includes Co-Founders Dr. Iris Crassee, Dr. Nicole Ruckstuhl, and Dr. Willem Rischau, senior researchers at the science faculty of UNIGE.
“Participating in the different phases of Venture Kick has sharpened our focus on business development and helped us expand our client network. This path has positioned us perfectly for the exciting next phase, with future clients lined up,” stated the RefFIT team. “In the next year, we are set to heighten our ambitions, targeting to raise 1 million in seed funding to fuel the development of the commercial grade RefFIT.”
RefFIT’s Co-Founders: Nicole Ruckstuhl, Iris Crassee, and Willem Rischau
©UNIGE
RefFIT focuses on the environmental sensing, semiconductor, and coatings industries. It caters to engineers and scientists conducting self-analysis and real-time solutions in production processes as well as to spectroscopy hardware manufacturers that can integrate RefFIT with their products. Accessible as a web app and API, RefFIT currently gains over 1,400 new users annually. With more than 400 thousand spectrometers in operation globally, the total addressable market is estimated to be above 1 billion yearly.
RefFIT will invest CHF 150,000 to expand the team and accelerate the development of its advanced web application and API. This investment will enable the launch of three new APIs for hardware manufacturers and the rollout of the web application in 2024. With the financial support received from Venture Kick, these product launches will be accompanied by a marketing strategy set up, representing an important achievement in RefFIT’s journey towards innovation and growth.
The team driving this project includes Co-Founders Dr. Iris Crassee, Dr. Nicole Ruckstuhl, and Dr. Willem Rischau, senior researchers at the science faculty of UNIGE.
“Participating in the different phases of Venture Kick has sharpened our focus on business development and helped us expand our client network. This path has positioned us perfectly for the exciting next phase, with future clients lined up,” stated the RefFIT team. “In the next year, we are set to heighten our ambitions, targeting to raise 1 million in seed funding to fuel the development of the commercial grade RefFIT.”
RefFIT’s Co-Founders: Nicole Ruckstuhl, Iris Crassee, and Willem Rischau
©UNIGE