Finapp is redefining environmental measurement with its innovative use of CRNS technology. By enabling large-scale, non-invasive monitoring of soil and snow water content, Finapp is growing rapidly and with strong investor backing and global expansion plans, it is emerging as a leader in sustainable water resource solutions.
Founded in 2018 as a spin-off from the University of Padova, Finapp (short for “FIsica Nucleare APPlicata”) is emerging as one of Italy’s most innovative startups in the field of environmental measurement. Specializing in Cosmic Ray Neutron Sensing (CRNS) technology, the company has developed probes that are capable of measuring soil and snow water content in a non-invasive and large-scale manner.
Finapp’s CRNS technology leverages cosmic rays to detect neutron levels, which vary based on soil moisture. This method allows for real-time data collection at various depths, with strategic applications in sectors such as precision agriculture, optimizing irrigation and improving productivity; water resource management, ensuring more efficient water usage; and environmental monitoring, studying the water cycle and preventing droughts or floods.
Over the past two years, Finapp has experienced rapid growth, expanding from 3 to 25 employees and increasing its production capacity with two operational units in Italy. The company initially received a €200,000 investment from Progress Tech Transfer in 2020, followed by an additional €1.2 million from private investors to support technology development and market expansion.
Finapp collaborates with academic institutions and industrial partners, including the University of Padua, and has received funding from the European Innovation Council for its contributions to innovation in the water sector. These achievements highlight the startup’s potential to establish itself on a global scale.
In the next 12 months, Finapp plans to open two new production units abroad, aiming for a stronger international presence. The goal is to provide sustainable and scalable solutions for water resource measurement, helping governments and businesses manage water, a resource that is becoming increasingly valuable.
By combining applied nuclear physics with environmental sustainability, Finapp positions itself as a key player in the revolution of water resource management, with a significant impact on the future of technological and environmental innovation.
Finapp Official Website, last opened on Sunday, March 30th 2025, https://www.finapptech.com/
“Scaling up the FINAPP Cosmic Ray Neutron Sensing probe.” by the European Innovation Council, last opened on Sunday, March 30th, 2025, https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/190124200
“Finapp si aggiudica 2,8 milioni dall’European Innovation Council” by StartupItalia, last opened on Sunday, March 30th, 2025, https://startupitalia.eu/startup/finapp-si-aggiudica-28-milioni-dalleuropean-innovation-council/
“10 startup italiane da tenere d’occhio nel 2025” by Wired, last opened on Sunday, March 30th, 2025, https://www.wired.it/gallery/startup-innovative-italia-2025/
“Raggi cosmici per misurare l’umidità del suolo: la rivoluzione di Finapp” by Fresh Cut News, last opened on Sunday, March 30th, 2025, https://www.freshcutnews.it/2023/02/17/raggi-cosmici-misurare-lumidita-del-suolo-la-rivoluzione-finapp/
