JSK Investments SICAV a.s. Invests in Deep-Tech Startup Lightly: Technology for Detecting and Analyzing Hazardous Substances

“Monika is exactly the type of founder we look for. She combines a clear vision, deep technical expertise, and the ability to execute complex projects. This combination is essential in the deep-tech sector,” said Petra Cihlářová, Investment Director for Venture Capital at JSK Investments SICAV. “We deliberately avoid investments in sectors that contribute to addiction, which makes supporting a solution designed to combat these issues all the more meaningful to us,” she added.

The company’s shoebox-sized device can analyze a sample within minutes, generate its chemical “fingerprint,” and determine its origin. This enables law enforcement agencies to map drug distribution networks more effectively, including those involving highly dangerous substances such as fentanyl. The technology is based on research using UV radiation and spectrometry to create a unique pattern from the chemical reaction of a substance. Lightly has transformed this method into a practical field application and complemented it with a data layer that enables case matching across regions and countries.

“From the outset, we appreciated JSK Investments’ flexibility, as well as the speed and ‘American-style’ approach that allowed us to move efficiently and without unnecessary delays. The entire process proceeded exactly as agreed, and thanks to the investment, we were able to immediately and significantly increase both the pace and efficiency of our development efforts,” said Monika Štěpánová, Co-Founder and CEO of Lightly. “We greatly value the trust JSK has placed in us as we build the company, and it is equally important to know that we can turn to them whenever needed. Angel investor Tomáš Krátký also joined the round alongside JSK, and we are truly delighted with this combination of partners,” she added.

In addition to security applications, Lightly sees significant potential for its technology in other areas, including pharmaceutical authentication and counterfeit detection in the food industry. Looking ahead, the company aims to build a global database of chemical fingerprints, whose value will grow with every additional sample analyzed.

The startup is already validating its solution in cooperation with the police department in Huntsville, Alabama, and is building strategic relationships with organizations such as INTERPOL and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). In the coming years, Lightly plans to expand deployment of its technology across law enforcement agencies, airports, and customs authorities worldwide.