Dracula Technologies, based in Valence, France, has successfully completed an extension of its Series A funding round, securing a total of €30 million. This financial achievement marks a significant step for the firm, which focuses on developing battery-free IoT solutions through energy harvesting from ambient indoor light. The funding will potentially enhance the company’s production capabilities and support its global industrial deployment. So far, Dracula Technologies has aimed to expand its manufacturing capacity for organic photovoltaic (OPV) technology, a pivotal component in advancing sustainable energy solutions.
In its recent developments, Dracula Technologies has continued to focus on evolving its proprietary LAYER technology, which generates power from low-intensity ambient light. This technology not only advances IoT solutions but also reduces reliance on traditional batteries. Previously, the company successfully launched the LAYER Vault, a combination of energy harvesting and storage films, designed to operate continuously and support applications in Smart Buildings and Smart Homes. This move reflects a strategic push toward integrating sustainability with cutting-edge digital solutions.
What is the significance of the latest funding?
The €30M Series A extension round primarily involves investment from Banque des Territoires, part of Caisse des Dépôts, under the “France 2030” initiative. This financial injection will primarily be used to bolster the French company’s production from sheet-to-sheet to roll-to-roll Inkjet manufacturing. Such advancements are expected to increase production capacity to 600 million cm² annually in its Green MicroPower Factory in Valence, thereby enhancing the company’s competitive edge in the energy solutions market.
Can Dracula Technologies sustain its growth momentum?
Dracula Technologies’ strategic partnerships play a crucial role in its growth trajectory. Banque des Territoires continues to support Dracula Technologies, emphasizing the importance of both local roots and international expansion. Additional partners include the MGI Digital Technology Group and long-time private investors. Notably, the European Innovation Council (EIC) Fund has joined as a new strategic partner in this phase of industrial scale-up.
With the EIC Fund’s involvement, Dracula Technologies aims to reduce battery dependency in connected electronics, aligning with EU ambitions for sustainability. According to Svetoslava Georgieva, Chair of the EIC Fund Board, the fund supports innovative European technologies that promote sustainability.
“As a public investor supporting breakthrough European technologies, the EIC Fund is pleased to join Dracula Technologies in this new phase of industrial scale-up,”
she noted.
Founded by Brice Cruchon, Dracula Technologies has positioned itself as a specialist in OPV technology. Its flagship product, LAYER, is a testament to the company’s commitment to battery-free power solutions. The firm’s innovative approach harnesses ambient light through digitally printed OPV modules, creating a sustainable energy source for IoT devices.
“I am very proud of this achievement, which wouldn’t have been possible without the commitment and hard work of our team,”
expresses Brice Cruchon, CEO of Dracula Technologies.
As Dracula Technologies progresses, the integration of sustainability with advanced IoT solutions gains prominence. The company’s focus on expanding its Green MicroPower Factory illustrates a commitment to fulfilling industrial demands while promoting environmental stewardship. These strategic initiatives position Dracula Technologies at the forefront of innovation in renewable energy technologies and their application in modern digital infrastructures.
