Transavia Ventures invests in innovative aircraft skin

“That means saving on fuel and reducing CO2 emissions,” says Dirk Neelis, CFO of Transavia. “We started Transavia Ventures BV in June. We want to promote innovation and enter into strategic partnerships with companies that have developed innovative technologies. This first investment in Dimple Aerospace is a special moment for both parties.”

Dozens of start-ups

“Dozens of start-ups have now contacted us and many discussions have already taken place. In this way we continue to funnel further so that the companies that suit us best and have the most potential remain," says Nico Gielen, Investment Lead New Business at Transavia Ventures. “We are now investigating a number of other applications to see whether their innovation or idea meets our criteria. We have now achieved real concrete results; where the collaboration with Dimple has gone the furthest.”

Dimples

Dimple Aerospace and Transavia Ventures sign a Letter of Intent (LOI) for a possible investment. Nico Gielen: “This means that Dimple will continue developing this technology for a year and can consult with, for example, our technical specialists about its practical applicability. If the results are positive, we can then be one of the first parties to invest. “Olaf van Campenhout, co-founder of Dimple Aerospace: 'Working with Transavia is very valuable to us. Both in their role as investor and as possible first major customer. Transavia's strong will and decisiveness to make aviation greener is very contagious. We look forward to a great partnership.” Dimple Aerospace is supported by the Take-off instrument of the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO). This is a program to stimulate and support business and entrepreneurship based on science.

Low cost feels good

“We also apply our 'low cost feel good' philosophy when it comes to our investments,” says Nico Gielen. “We step in earlier, when the start-up is still really in the development phase, as is the case with Dimple Aerospace. The technology still needs to be further developed. These are passionate entrepreneurs who we can also help by providing direction, advice and expertise.”

Dirk Neelis: “While many investment funds are only focused on financial participation, Transavia Ventures BV is looking for a much more far-reaching collaboration with the start-ups in which it will participate. This not only increases the chance of return, but also provides innovative power for the organization itself. And these innovative companies in turn add value to Transavia through innovation and finding additional sources of income.”

Interested parties can contact Transavia Ventures BV via: [email protected] or visit the website www.transavia.com/ventures for more information about Transavia Ventures BV.