Meet Matt Lapinski, CEO & Co-founder of Clee Medical

Tell us more about Clee Medical.
Clee Medical is a Swiss neurotechnology startup developing real-time imaging and AI-based navigation systems that enhance precision and safety in minimally invasive brain surgery. Our platform, Neuro Access, empowers surgeons with live visualization and automated tissue insights.

Please give some more details of your startup story: what was the “aha” moment that led to the idea for your startup?
The idea for Clee Medical came from realizing how little real-time data neurosurgeons have during operations. We asked ourselves, “Could we change that by giving them clear, live insights into brain tissue?” We believe we can — and that our efforts will help millions of patients while fundamentally transforming the future of brain care.

So, what’s next for you — what’s a bold goal you’re chasing right now?
We’re finalizing the design of our Neuro Access platform and preparing for first-in-human trials. Our bold goal is to bring real-time, AI-powered brain imaging into the operating room and make our vision of safer, more precise, and scalable neurosurgery a clinical reality.

Which decision (big or small) had the most unexpected positive impact on your startup?
Partnering early with leading neurosurgeons and hospitals was transformative. Their insights shaped our technology from day one, ensuring real clinical relevance and accelerating our path from lab concept to a solution ready for surgical use.

How did you build your team, and what helps you maintain your startup culture?
We built a team of highly skilled, independent, and driven people who share a deep belief in our mission. Our culture thrives on trust, alignment, and a shared commitment to push boundaries and make a real impact in neurotechnology.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? What are your biggest learnings?
We’ve done well involving surgeons early for feedback, but our biggest learning is the value of continuously challenging ourselves even more than the outside world does. That mindset helps us stay sharp, streamline development, and avoid costly backtracking.

Building a startup requires resilience. How do you stay focused during tough times?
Staying focused on the horizon makes it easier to ignore the waves. We remind ourselves why we started — to transform brain care — and that purpose keeps us steady, motivated, and moving forward through every challenge.

One piece of advice for someone who is just starting out with their startup?
Startups are a team game. Surround yourself with great people and listen to the data. Be stubborn enough to push through challenges, but humble enough to pivot when needed. That balance is key to finding the right path forward.

What’s your outlook on the future of the Swiss startup scene, and how can it compete internationally?
Switzerland has incredible talent, research, and precision engineering. To compete globally, we need to scale faster, take bigger risks, and strengthen bridges between academia, industry, and capital to turn world-class innovation into world-changing companies.

What value do you see in being part of the Swiss Startup Association (personally and professionally)?
Being part of the Swiss Startup Association connects us with a community that shares challenges, insights, and ambition. It’s a platform to learn, collaborate, and amplify the collective voice of Swiss innovation.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us/the community?
I’m excited to share Clee Medical’s journey with you and to contribute to the Swiss startup community as we work together to strengthen innovation and drive meaningful impact in Switzerland.

Follow Matt on LinkedIn!

About the Swiss Startup Association

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