Nasal spray for flu and corona receives € 30 million from Invest-NL and EIC

Viruses stop at the front door 

Leiden Labs, founded in 2020 and based in Leiden, develops nasal sprays that block respiratory viruses – such as flu and corona – at the moment they try to enter the body. By delivering antibodies directly to the nasal mucosa, immediate protection is created, preventing viruses from reaching the lungs and causing an infection. This technology thus fills an important gap left by vaccines, which are often less effective in the elderly and people with weakened immune systems.  

Keeping healthcare accessible and affordable 

The investment aligns well with our impact objectives to improve the accessibility and affordability of healthcare, both by protecting vulnerable groups and focusing on prevention. Additionally, Leiden Labs has clear social value. The company is better preparing the Netherlands and Europe for future health crises. This helps reduce pressure on healthcare services and strengthens European resilience. 

“We are proud to support Leiden Labs in their mission to stop respiratory viruses at the entry point with a preventive and easy-to-use nasal spray. This technology can better protect vulnerable groups, both against seasonal and pandemic virus infections, and contributes to Europe’s health and innovation capacity,” says Ineke Cazander, Investment Principal at Invest-NL. 

Global backing 

Invest-NL and EIC join a already strong international group of investors from the US and Asia. With this support from Europe, Leiden Labs can further benefit from different perspectives on their strategy and respond to the global need for protection against seasonal and pandemic viruses.