Neurinnov

Neurinnov is a neurotechnology company based in Montpellier, France, specialising in next-generation neurostimulation. Founded as a spin-off from INRIA (the French National Institute for Research in Digital Sciences) and the University of Montpellier, the company is developing breakthrough solutions to restore lost neurological functions.

At the core of Neurinnov’s innovation is a proprietary neurostimulation platform capable of selectively targeting sub-groups of nerve fibers within a peripheral nerve, rather than stimulating the entire nerve as conventional systems do. This patented approach enables highly precise, coordinated muscle activation, allowing for more natural and functional movements while minimizing unwanted side effects. The technology is designed as a scalable platform that can be applied across multiple neurological and functional disorders.

Neurinnov’s first clinical application focuses on restoring hand function in patients with complete cervical spinal cord injuries (tetraplegia), a population for which no effective therapeutic solution currently exists. In a world-first clinical achievement, four patients with complete tetraplegia regained functional grasp within days of activation. They were able to move their fingers, grasp objects, sign documents, brush their teeth, and perform essential daily activities. These results have been published in leading international scientific journals, including Nature Scientific Reports and Journal of Neurotrauma, and have received broad media coverage.

Beyond the technological breakthrough, the human impact is profound. Spinal cord injuries often affect young individuals and lead to lifelong paralysis, loss of independence, and significant psychological burden. Restoring the ability to use one’s hand represents a major step toward autonomy, dignity, and social and professional reintegration. It also has important economic implications, as the cost of care for tetraplegic patients can exceed €200,000 per year per individual.

Neurinnov’s platform extends beyond spinal cord injury. Its selective stimulation capability opens the door to a wide range of applications, including stroke rehabilitation, vagus nerve stimulation, pain management, autonomic function control, and broader motor function restoration. This positions the company at the forefront of a rapidly growing neurostimulation market, expected to reach $18 billion by 2030.

The company has received strong institutional recognition at the European level. Neurinnov was selected for funding under the European Innovation Council (EIC) Pathfinder program and, in January 2026, was among only 61 companies selected out of 923 applicants for the highly competitive EIC Accelerator program. This includes a €2.5 million non-dilutive grant and eligibility for up to €10 million in equity investment from the EIC Fund. These endorsements highlight the scientific excellence, clinical impact, and disruptive potential of the technology.

Since its creation in 2018, Neurinnov has raised approximately €8 million, with more than half coming from non-dilutive funding sources, including the European Union and Bpifrance. The company is now preparing its next clinical phases, including pre-pivotal studies and pivotal trials, with the objective of achieving regulatory approval in Europe and the United States.

By combining deep expertise in electrophysiology, advanced engineering, and clinical science, Neurinnov aims to transform the treatment of neurological disorders and restore independence to patients with severe disabilities.