Leyden Labs lands €20 million from EIB for pandemic preparedness
Leiden-based Leyden Labs has raised €20 million from the European Investment Bank to further develop their nasal spray.
Published on June 4, 2025
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Leiden-based biotech company Leyden Labs has received €20 million from the European Investment Bank (EIB) to contribute to strengthening pandemic preparedness within the European Union. The funding will be used to develop further a nasal spray that protects against both seasonal and pandemic virus infections.
With its novel approach, Leyden Labs focuses on directly neutralizing viruses in the nasopharynx. By using broadly protective antibodies in a nasal spray, Leyden Labs hopes to combat seasonal and pandemic outbreaks before they have a chance to cause serious infections. Unlike traditional vaccinations that train the immune system to recognize specific viruses, this method provides immediate protection and may reduce the need for seasonal flu vaccines.
Major investment opportunity
The European Investment Bank's investment is part of the broader “HERA Invest” grant aimed at strengthening pandemic preparedness within the European Union. This €110 million funding is specifically designed to provide for pandemic preparedness, bio-protection, and antimicrobial resistance. This capital injection will accelerate the development of Leyden Labs' non-vaccine approach.
Clinical development of PanFlu spray
Leyden Labs' primary program focuses on the development of PanFlu nasal spray, which is currently in clinical development. This spray is designed to control influenza and potentially dangerous flu strains such as avian flu. Since the spray focuses on stopping viral entry before infection occurs, it differs fundamentally from methods that rely on immune responses after exposure.
