Microbiome Explorer Challenge 2025
Event at a glance
- Applications received: 47 startups
- Finalists selected: 5
- Location: Žilina, Slovakia
- Event partner: CEE Start-up Event
- Winner: Shealed – Vaginitis Self-Test
The Microbiome Challenge 2025 was a remarkable event showcasing some of the most promising new ideas in the microbiome field. Finalists presented their projects during the CEE Start-up Event in Žilina, where innovative concepts met expert evaluation in a dynamic “dragon’s den” atmosphere.
The startups that reached the finals demonstrated not only strong business potential, but also an impressive level of scientific expertise. Many of the ideas showed clear potential to scale beyond Slovakia and contribute to the growing European and global microbiome innovation ecosystem.
The competition also highlighted a new generation of talented scientists and entrepreneurs working in microbiome research. The finalists impressed the jury with their professional presentation skills, strong English communication, and the ability to translate complex scientific knowledge into clear and compelling business concepts.
The projects covered a wide range of topics, including:
- microbial approaches to women’s health,
- analysis of microbiome patterns linked to health and disease,
- solutions aimed at improving resilience and preventing chronic conditions.
Each of the finalist projects demonstrated real investment potential, reflecting the growing interest of investors in innovations that transform cutting-edge microbiome research into practical solutions improving human health.
Winner of Microbiome Challenge 2025
We are proud to congratulate Shealed, represented by Mgr. Lucie Křenková, CEO & Co-founder, for winning the Microbiome Challenge 2025.
Their project, Vaginitis Self-Test, introduces an innovative approach to women’s health by enabling accessible and reliable microbiome-based diagnostics. The solution combines strong scientific foundations with clear market potential and the ability to address a widespread healthcare need.
Congratulations to the entire Shealed team — we look forward to following your continued success.