Real Problems. Practical Solutions.

From rapid prototyping to IP strategy, these case studies show how we’ve helped clients solve complex technical and commercial challenges. Every project is different — but the thinking is always sharp, fast, and grounded in engineering.

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Water Desalination Due Diligence Project

How comprehensive technical and commercial due diligence saved a leading European VC firm over €10 million by identifying critical risks in a water desalination startup investment.
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€10M+

Saved Client

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Full

Deep Dive into Core Technology

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IP

Intellectual Property Review

Complete

Performance Analysis Conducted

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"Our client, a leading European venture capital firm, was considering a significant investment in a water desalination startup. The opportunity appeared attractive: a strong founding team, technology aimed at tackling global freshwater scarcity, and a mission aligned with sustainable impact. Before committing, the client engaged Discuvr to conduct comprehensive technical and commercial due diligence."
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    The Brief

    Discuvr was asked to carry out a full review, including:

    • A deep dive into the company’s core technology
    • Intellectual property (IP) review and prior art search
    • Financial assessment and performance analysis
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    what we did

    Discuvr’s due diligence process combined technical expertise, IP analysis, and financial modelling:Bricks General Boilerplate
    The project involved:

    Technology Review

    We confirmed that the company’s initial concept was promising and mission-driven. However, during our review, we discovered that the technology under development had diverged significantly from what was originally proposed, and was no longer aligned with the company’s existing IP protection.

    IP & Competitive Landscape

    Our prior art search revealed a critical risk: a well-established U.S. competitor was already selling a near identical product, backed by multiple patents. This created a major barrier to the startup’s freedom to operate.

    Regulatory & Market Risks

    We found the business model relied heavily on obtaining permits in certain jurisdictions a process with uncertain timelines and outcomes.

    Financial Analysis

    The numbers did not support the business case. Freshwater output was much lower than expected, while financial payback was projected to take significantly longer than originally outlined.

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    outcome

    Based on Discuvr’s findings, the VC firm decided not to proceed with the investment. By avoiding a deal with high technical, regulatory, and financial risks, the client saved themselves over €10 million, which they were able to redirect into opportunities with stronger competitive positioning and greater long-term potential.

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    key takeaway

    Early-stage technologies can be compelling, but misalignment between IP protection, technological reality, and financial feasibility can expose investors to significant risk. Rigorous due diligence helps ensure capital is allocated to the highest-potential opportunities.