Kuopio-based medtech startup Marginum has raised €2.5 million in pre-Series A funding to expand its fluorescence-based tumour detection technology.
The round was led by Nostetta Ventures, with participation from existing backers Redstone and Almaral, as well as new investors Lynx Financial, healthcare-focused angels, and support from Business Finland.
Founded by Dr. Samu Lehtonen, Marginum is developing HIVEN, a device that attaches to surgical suction tubes to detect fluorescent tumour cells in real time. By using a special dye and providing auditory feedback, HIVEN allows surgeons to identify cancerous tissue even under standard operating room lighting — improving precision and safety during tumour removal.
Targeting FDA approval and European expansion
The fresh funding will be used to:
- Pursue FDA clearance for HIVEN
- Expand into new European markets
- Hire strategically and invest further in R&D
“This funding is a critical step toward bringing HIVEN to surgeons and patients across Europe and the US. We aim to make aspirate tissue monitoring a global standard in oncological surgery,” said CEO Samu Lehtonen, MD.
Advertisement
Beyond brain tumours
While initially focused on brain tumours, HIVEN’s applications could extend to ovarian, bladder, and liver cancers. Clinical testing has already taken place at hospitals in Oslo, Tampere, and Kuopio, with promising results.
Marginum expects EU marketing authorisation in late 2025, with sales in the Nordics to follow. The company projects that adoption of its device could reach multi-million euro revenues in the coming years.
