Innovodigm Secures Funding for Needle-Free Vaccine Patches
A med-tech startup, Innovodigm, has secured significant funding to revolutionize vaccine delivery with its innovative micro-array patch (MAP) technology. The company aims to eliminate the need for traditional injections, offering a pain-free, temperature-stable alternative that can reach remote areas.
Funding Details and Future Plans
Innovodigm, established in 2020 by Jhimli Manna and Ayan Chatterjee, has successfully raised Rs 5.5 crore in a seed funding round. The IAN Group led the investment, contributing Rs 4.5 crore. PadUp Ventures also participated in the round. The funding will support process optimization, scaling infrastructure, and expanding the team, as stated in a press release. This will facilitate third-party preclinical validation and preparations for upcoming clinical trials.
Revolutionizing Vaccine Delivery
The MAP developed by Innovodigm presents a groundbreaking alternative to traditional injectable vaccines. The design seeks to tackle challenges such as cold-chain dependence, medical waste, and needle-stick injuries. The MAP uses thermostabilized vaccines that remain effective for up to 120 days at 40°C, eliminating the need for refrigeration and enabling outreach to remote, underserved areas.
Recognition and Development
Innovodigm’s MAP platform has gained notable recognition. The Ministry of Electronics & IT selected it as a Top 2 Technology at the Nano Electronics Showcase 2025. Moreover, the company has signed a Material Transfer Agreement (MTA) with a leading Indian vaccine manufacturer for third-party validation. Clinical trials are scheduled to begin next year.
“Spinning out from IIT Kharagpur’s Microelectronics and MEMS Lab has been fundamental to our scientific foundation. Our MAP platform reflects India’s ability to lead in affordable, scalable vaccine delivery that serves both national and global public health goals,”
—Jhimli Manna, CEO of Innovodigm
The World Health Organization estimates that 1.5 million deaths could be averted annually if vaccination coverage improved. This statistic underscores the potential global impact of Innovodigm’s technology (WHO, 2024).
Looking Ahead
Innovodigm plans to expand across India and other low- and middle-income countries. The company aims to adapt its patch for diverse vaccines, including those for measles, hepatitis, influenza, and COVID-19 boosters. Additionally, Innovodigm is developing local manufacturing hubs. This will allow patches to be produced closer to where they are most needed.