FFUND is proud to have assisted PulseCath, Medimplant GmbH and Hannover Medical University in getting awarded the Eurostars grant (total value €1.89M). As the LifePulse consortium, they have an innovative approach to develop a next-generation pulsatile Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) device that supports the heart of acute heart failure patients in the ICU with minimal complication risks.
About the LifePulse consortium
The LifePulse consortium combines over six decades of MedTech R&D expertise to pioneer next-generation cardiac solutions. The consortium is led by PulseCath, a Netherlands-based SME that develops, manufactures, and markets circulatory support systems under the leadership of CEO Oren Malchin. The consortium builds on the clinical excellence of Hannover Medical University (MHH), home to one of the world’s most innovative advanced heart failure programsled by Prof. Dr. J.D. Schmitto, and on Medimplant’s specialized preclinical research facilities and experienced surgical team. Together, these partners bring complementary expertise that ensures robust scientific leadership, seamless coordination, and the successful development of a safer, more effective ECMO device with transformative clinical impact.
What is the product about?
ECMO is the ‘ultimate survival weapon’[BH1] for critically ill acute heart and/or lung failure patients. Yet, current ECMO systems rely on continuous blood flow, which increases strain on the heart, limits oxygen delivery to vital organs, and contributes to high complication and mortality rates.
The LifePulse project aims to transform this reality through the development of Stylla5, a next-generation ECMO device engineered to provide pulsatile, heart-synchronized blood flow. Working in harmony with the patient’s cardiac cycle, Stylla5 will actively support circulation and organ perfusion. This reduces afterload, hemolysis, and thrombosis risk, all common complications in existing ECMO technologies.
Additionally, unlike current complex and costly ECMO machines that require specialized teams and extensive training, Stylla5 is designed for simplicity, safety, and accessibility. It will seamlessly connect to standard hospital hardware, operate with minimal user input, and will be competitively priced. This enables use not only in high-income regions but also in resource-limited healthcare systems, thereby making advanced cardiac support available to a far broader patient population worldwide.
How did FFUND help?
FFUND provided comprehensive guidance throughout the application process for the project. Even after the successful evaluation, FFUND continued to support the consortium to ensure the release of national funding.
Claudia Milazzo (Project Lead): “On the LifePulse proposal, we focused on turning the ambitious consortium’s idea into a clear, succesful application and keeping the process moving through to the grant agreement. I’m very enthusiastic about the potential of Stylla5 to improve survival and recovery outcomes for ICU patients with acute heart failure.”
PulseCath CEO, Oren Malchin: “The FFUND team provided clarity, coordination and steady guidance throughout our Eurostars application. Their hands-on support made the entire process far more efficient and collaborative.”
About Eurostars
Eurostars is a funding program initiated by Eureka. It supports innovative small and medium-sized enterprises in collaborative research and development projects across Europe.
How FFUND can help
Are you looking for help to build a consortium or shape your project proposal? Don’t hesitate to reach out and contact us! In need of tips or tricks for a successful Eurostars application? Or do you need help on Venture Finance Support or Grant- & Project Management? Read more on our website or contact us. We are happy to help you.
