1 The EIC Accelerator Project

Overview of the EIC Accelerator Program

The EIC Accelerator program, part of the European Innovation Council (EIC), aims to support innovative startups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with high-risk, high-potential projects. The program is designed to foster the development of deep technology solutions and to enhance Europe’s global competitiveness in innovation. This initiative not only provides financial support but also offers strategic guidance and access to a vast network of resources, helping companies navigate the challenges of scaling their innovations.

Funding Structure

The EIC Accelerator employs a blended finance model, combining grants and equity investments to support the growth of innovative projects.

• Grant Funding: Companies can receive grants of up to €2.5 million. This non-repayable funding is intended to cover specific project costs, including research, development, and testing of innovative technologies.
• Equity Investment: The equity component allows for investment of up to €15 million until 2024, and up to €10 million from 2025 onwards. This funding is provided in exchange for equity stakes in the company, which offers financial support while also aligning the interests of the company and investors.

Purpose of the EIC Accelerator

The primary goal of the EIC Accelerator is to empower European startups and SMEs to scale their innovative solutions, particularly in the deep tech sector. By offering substantial financial backing and access to mentorship and networks, the program aims to bridge the gap between early-stage innovation and market-ready solutions. This initiative plays a critical role in enhancing the European startup ecosystem by facilitating access to private funding sources and enabling companies to attract additional investment.

Role in Scaling and Funding

The EIC Accelerator acts as a catalyst for companies seeking to scale their operations and attract private sector investment. By providing both grants and equity, the program reduces the financial risk associated with high-tech innovations, making it easier for startups to pursue ambitious projects. Additionally, the support from the EIC can enhance a company’s credibility, making it more appealing to private investors and venture capitalists. This symbiotic relationship helps to create a robust pipeline of innovative solutions, ultimately contributing to technological advancement and economic growth within Europe.

D-ORBIT SPA and the ASTROLIFT Project

Company Overview: D-ORBIT SPA is an Italian aerospace company specializing in the development of innovative solutions for satellite operations and the management of space debris. Their focus on creating sustainable technologies positions them at the forefront of the burgeoning space economy.

Project Acronym: ASTROLIFT

Project Description: The ASTROLIFT project aims to develop Autonomous Spacecraft Technology for Repair Operations, Lifespan Improvement, and Flight Testing. This initiative addresses critical needs within the aerospace sector, particularly concerning satellite maintenance and the management of space assets.

Technology Basics and Background: The ASTROLIFT project focuses on creating autonomous technologies that enable spacecraft to perform maintenance and repair tasks in orbit. This involves the integration of advanced robotics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to facilitate autonomous navigation, decision-making, and operational efficiency. The technology aims to extend the lifespan of satellites, significantly reducing costs associated with launching replacements and mitigating the environmental impact of space debris.

The background of this technology stems from the increasing demand for satellite services and the need for sustainable practices in space operations. As the number of satellites in orbit continues to grow, so does the challenge of managing space debris and ensuring the longevity of existing assets. D-ORBIT's approach leverages cutting-edge technology to create solutions that are not only innovative but also essential for the future of space exploration and satellite communication.

In June 2023, D-ORBIT SPA submitted their Step 2 proposal, subsequently progressing to the Step 3 interview where they successfully secured funding through the EIC Accelerator program. This achievement underscores the significance of their project and its potential impact on the aerospace sector. The funding obtained will facilitate the development and testing of ASTROLIFT’s autonomous technologies, positioning D-ORBIT SPA as a leader in the evolving landscape of space operations.

Overall, the EIC Accelerator program's support for projects like ASTROLIFT is crucial in driving innovation and fostering sustainable practices within the European deep tech ecosystem.

2 The Funding Rounds

D-ORBIT SPA: Financing and Funding Overview Since EIC Accelerator Award (June 2023)

D-Orbit S.p.A., an Italian scale-up specializing in in-space logistics, has experienced significant financing milestones since being awarded EIC Accelerator funding following the June 21, 2023 cut-off.

---

Financing Raised & Funding Rounds

Series C Round

First Closing:

In January 2024, D-Orbit announced the successful first closing of its Series C funding round, raising approximately €100 million. This round marked one of the largest for a European space tech company at that time.

Final Closing:

By September 27, 2024, D-Orbit completed the second and final closing of its Series C round, reaching a total raise of €150 million (about $166 million). This is one of the largest space deals globally over that period.

EIC Accelerator Blended Finance

• In June 2023, D-Orbit was selected as an EIC Accelerator winner for blended finance—receiving both grant and equity investment:
• Grant: Up to €2.5 million
• Equity Investment: Up to €15 million

These funds are directed primarily at developing their Astrolift project—an advanced spacecraft for in-orbit satellite maintenance.

Previous Funding Context

Prior to this recent period: - D-Orbit had previously obtained about €2 million from an earlier EIC Phase II grant between 2015–2018.

Before Series C, aggregate funding exceeded $188M with a pre-money valuation of around €500M just prior to these new rounds.

---

Timing and Amounts: Key Events Chronology

Date	Event/Stage	Amount Raised
June 21, 2023	Won EIC Accelerator	Up to €17.5M (grant + equity)
January 18, 2024	First close Series C	~€100M
September 27, 2024	Final close Series C	Total €150M

---

Investor Information

The latest rounds attracted participation from both existing backers and major new investors: Lead & Major Investors

• Marubeni Corporation (Japan)
• Avantgarde family office
• CDP Venture Capital SGR (Italia Venture I fund; Large Ventures fund)
• Seraphim Space Investment Trust
• United Ventures
• Indaco Venture Partners
• Neva SGR SpA (Intesa Sanpaolo group VC arm)
• Primo Ventures

New & Additional Investors

• Iberis Capital (Portugal)
• European Innovation Council Fund (EIC Fund)
• Phaistos Investment Fund/5G Ventures (Greece)
• Terna Forward
• Consortium led by United Ventures including European Investment Bank & European Investment Fund

Legal advisors included BofA Securities and UniCredit as Joint Placement Agents; legal advisement from Eversheds Sutherland for D-Orbit and Gianni & Origoni for Marubeni.

---

Company Valuation

At the time surrounding these events:

Pre-Series C valuation was reported at approximately €500 million.

No official post-Series C valuation has been publicly disclosed yet but given the size (€150m) and investor profile in this round—and taking into account previous reports—the company is now likely valued substantially higher than before this milestone event.

Earlier plans discussed going public via SPAC at a $1.4 billion valuation but there’s no evidence a listing or acquisition has yet taken place as of May 2025.

---

Exit Events: IPOs or Acquisitions

There have been no initial public offerings or acquisitions announced since receiving their recent funding:

While there were prior discussions in industry media about potential SPAC mergers targeting valuations up to $1.4 billion, as of May 2025 there is no record that such an exit event—IPO or acquisition—has occurred.

D-Orbit continues operating independently with expanded capital resources fueling further growth initiatives.

---

Summary Table: Recent Major Financial Events for D-OrBIT SPA

Year/Month	Event	Details
Jun 21 – Nov 23	Awarded EIC Accelerator Blended Finance	Grant up to €2.5m + Equity up to €15m
Jan 18 24	First Close – Series C	~€100m
Sep 27 24	Final Close – Series C	Total raised: €150m

No IPO/acquisition reported by May 05 25.

---

Sources

d-orbit spa – EIC Accelerator data hub EIC Accelerator Awarded Funds to …D‑Orbit… D-Orbit company information — investny.org D-Orbit company information — Dealroom EIC Accelerator winners…June 2023…Strata.team D‑Orbit seizes leadership…Series C funding — SatNews PDF Press Release on Final Close (€150m)
Wikipedia entry on D‑Orbit Spa

3 The Press Releases

D-ORBIT SPA: Innovations and Advances Since EIC Accelerator Funding

D-ORBIT SPA, an Italian company specializing in cutting-edge space logistics services, received funding through the EIC Accelerator in June 2023. This support has enabled the company to accelerate its technological advancements and strategic growth.

Technology Advancements

D-ORBIT SPA is renowned for its innovative space logistics solutions, including the ION orbital transfer vehicle. This technology provides a 'last mile delivery service' for satellites, significantly reducing the time and costs associated with launching satellite constellations. The ION spacecraft also supports payload hosting, space-based edge computing, and in-space communications, positioning D-ORBIT at the forefront of in-orbit services.

Funding and Growth

Following its success with the EIC Accelerator, D-ORBIT SPA secured a substantial Series C funding round in January 2024, raising approximately €100 million. This funding is aimed at expanding its space logistics offerings, enhancing operational capabilities, and advancing global expansion. The investment underscores D-ORBIT's growth trajectory and its commitment to revolutionizing the space industry.

Partnerships and Expansion

D-ORBIT continues to collaborate with key stakeholders in the space sector, leveraging partnerships to enhance its services and expand its global presence. The company's growth strategy includes strengthening its position in the US, Europe, and the UK, reflecting its ambition to become a leading player in the emerging in-orbit economy.

Press Releases and Updates

For the latest updates, press releases, and blog posts from D-ORBIT SPA, interested parties can visit their official website or social media channels. However, specific recent updates or press releases directly related to D-ORBIT SPA's activities since the EIC funding are not readily available on their website or social media platforms.

Conclusion

Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in June 2023, D-ORBIT SPA has continued to innovate and expand its presence in the space logistics sector. With significant funding secured in early 2024, the company is well-positioned to drive further technological advancements and strategic growth.

Sources: - EIC Accelerator winners and statistics June 2023

• D-Orbit Secures €100m in First Closing in Series C Funding
• DARPA: Home

4 The Technology Advancements

Overview of D-Orbit SPA

D-Orbit SPA is an Italian company renowned for its expertise in space logistics and orbital transportation. It has successfully positioned itself as a leader in the space industry with its innovative technologies and mission capabilities.

Current Capabilities

• Space Logistics and Transportation: D-Orbit is recognized for its efficient in-orbit services using its proprietary Orbital Transfer Vehicle (OTV), the ION Satellite Carrier. This vehicle provides a 'last mile delivery service' by transporting payloads to their precise orbital destinations, significantly reducing the time from launch to operational readiness.
• Advanced Technologies: The company has been expanding its capabilities into on-orbit servicing, refueling, and end-of-mission disposal, as well as cross-orbit transportation, including lunar orbits.

Advancements Since June 2023

Since June 2023, D-Orbit has made several significant advancements:

• Strategic Partnership: In April 2025, D-Orbit announced a strategic acquisition of Planetek Group, an Italian Earth Observation and analytics company. This partnership aims to integrate new capabilities in cloud-based space applications, AI-powered data processing, and near real-time data services. Both companies will retain their operational autonomy while exploring new business models and synergies.
• Launch and Mission Successes: D-Orbit successfully launched its 17th orbital transportation mission, "Wish Upon a Star," aboard SpaceX's Transporter-13 mission in March 2025. This mission further demonstrates the company's reliability in space logistics.
• Funding and Growth: Before the EIC funding, D-Orbit secured significant private funding, including a €150 million Series C round in late 2024, marking one of the largest space tech deals in recent times.

Technology Improvements and Demonstrations

• Technological Innovations: D-Orbit continues to innovate by integrating AI and edge computing technologies in space. The AI-eXpress mission, for example, leverages AI and blockchain technology.
• Market Demonstrations: The company's ION Satellite Carriers have been used by numerous customers for payload hosting and in-orbit validation of new technologies. These missions have flown aboard multiple SpaceX Transporter missions, showcasing the company's ability to deliver services to a wide array of customers.

Patents, Studies, and Publications

While there is no specific information available on new patents filed or scientific studies published directly by D-Orbit since the EIC Accelerator funding, the company's advancements in space logistics and technology integration are well-documented through its successful missions and strategic partnerships.

Conclusion

D-Orbit SPA has demonstrated significant growth and innovation in the space logistics sector, expanding its services and technologies through strategic partnerships and successful mission deployments.

Sources: - D-Orbit Homepage

• D-Orbit and Planetek Announce Strategic Business Combination
• D-Orbit Launches the 17th Orbital Transportation Mission with ION
• About Us - D-Orbit
• D-Orbit Acquires Italian EO Company Planetek
• D-Orbit Successfully Closes a €150m Series C Round
• D-Orbit Secures €100m in First Closing in Series C Funding
• D-Orbit Sets Course to Expand Beyond Space Transportation Services

5 The Partnerships and Customers

D-Orbit SPA: Enhancing Space Logistics and Expansion

D-Orbit SPA, an Italian company recognized as a leader in space logistics and transportation, has been actively expanding its services and partnerships since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in June 2023. Here is an overview of their partnerships, new associations, and how these relationships position them in the market and aid in technological advancements.

Partnerships and Customers

• Isar Aerospace: D-Orbit has entered into a firm launch services agreement with Isar Aerospace. This partnership involves launching D-Orbit's ION Satellite Carrier using Isar's Spectrum launch vehicle to achieve precise satellite deployment in Sun-synchronous orbits.
• Marubeni Corporation: In November 2023, Marubeni became the lead investor in D-Orbit’s Series C round, enhancing D-Orbit’s financial position and global reach. This investment aims to make D-Orbit a total solution provider for satellites, including orbit insertion, operational support, and de-orbiting services.
• SkyServe: D-Orbit collaborates with SkyServe to integrate edge computing capabilities into their ION Satellite Carriers. This partnership enhances in-orbit data processing, enabling real-time analytics and decision-making directly in space.

New Partners and Customers

While specific new customer names are not detailed, D-Orbit's expanded service offerings attract a diverse range of clients seeking advanced satellite services. Their partnerships with companies like Marubeni and SkyServe indicate a strategic approach to expand their customer base globally.

Nature and Purpose of New Relationships

The partnerships and collaborations D-Orbit engages in serve multiple purposes:

• Technological Advancements: Partnerships with companies like SkyServe enhance D-Orbit's capabilities in in-orbit data processing and edge computing, positioning them as a leader in providing advanced space-based services.
• Market Positioning: The investment from Marubeni and agreements with Isar Aerospace strengthen D-Orbit's position as a comprehensive space logistics provider, offering services beyond transportation to include operational support and satellite lifecycle management.
• Scaling: These collaborations facilitate D-Orbit's expansion into new markets, such as Southeast Asia and Japan, leveraging Marubeni's global network.

Impact on Technology Advancements and Scaling

D-Orbit's new relationships significantly contribute to their technological advancements and scaling efforts:

• In-Orbit Servicing: D-Orbit plans to expand into on-orbit servicing and refueling missions, benefiting from partnerships that enhance their technical capabilities and market reach.
• Global Expansion: Collaborations with international investors and partners like Marubeni help D-Orbit scale its operations globally, offering comprehensive satellite services to a broader client base.

Future Outlook

D-Orbit's strategic partnerships and investments position them favorably in the rapidly evolving space logistics industry. By expanding their service offerings and technological capabilities, they are poised to become a key player in the global space market.

Sources: - Isar Aerospace and D-Orbit Announce Launch Services Agreement

• D-Orbit Homepage
• D-Orbit Sets Course to Expand Beyond Space Transportation Services
• D-Orbit Announces In-Orbit Edge Computing Collaboration
• Marubeni Corporation to Invest in D-Orbit

6 The Hiring and Company Growth

D-Orbit SPA: Team Growth and Development

D-Orbit SPA, an Italian company and a leader in space logistics and transportation, has experienced significant growth since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in June 2023. Here's an overview of their team dynamics and recent developments:

Hiring and Team Growth

• Current Headcount and Team Size: While the exact current headcount is not specified, D-Orbit has seen a net increase in its workforce. In 2023, 52 people joined the company, and 29 left, resulting in a net increase of 23 employees—representing a 9% growth compared to the previous year.
• Current Hiring Status: D-Orbit is actively expanding its operations, which suggests ongoing hiring efforts, especially with its new US team focused on bus design, manufacturing, and commercialization. However, specific job openings are not detailed in the available sources.
• Growth: Since its founding in 2011, D-Orbit has experienced steady growth, particularly in recent years. The company has successfully flown 17 missions and delivered over 180 payloads for customers, showcasing its increasing capabilities.

Key Positions and Recent Hires

While specific key positions recently hired are not mentioned, D-Orbit's expansion into new markets and technologies suggests the recruitment of skilled professionals in areas like engineering, logistics, and business development.

Impact of New Team Members

New team members play a crucial role in D-Orbit's future growth by enhancing its capacity to provide in-space logistics services. This includes expanding into on-orbit servicing, refueling missions, end-of-mission disposal, and cross-orbit transportation, including lunar orbits. The addition of new talent supports D-Orbit's strategic plans to scale its operations and solidify its position as a leading space logistics provider.

Major Changes in Management or Founding Team

There are no recent reports of major changes in D-Orbit's management or founding team. The company remains focused on its mission under the leadership of CEO Luca Rossettini, who has been instrumental in its growth and strategic developments.

Funding and Future Prospects

In September 2024, D-Orbit closed a €150 million Series C funding round, one of the largest space deals in the past year. This significant investment will support D-Orbit's global expansion and further accelerate its development of advanced space technologies. The funding from prominent investors highlights the company's potential for continued growth and innovation in the space logistics sector.

Sources:

• D-Orbit: Homepage
• [D-Orbit Successfully Closes a €150m [$166m] Series C Round](https://www.dorbit.space/media/5/32.pdf)
• D-Orbit sets course to expand beyond space transportation services
• Impact Report 2023
• D-Orbit Space Logistics Company
• D-Orbit closes a million€€€ Series C round

7 The Media Features and Publications

D-ORBIT SPA: Media Presence and Public Engagements Post-EIC Accelerator Funding D-ORBIT SPA, an Italian space logistics company awarded EIC Accelerator funding in June 2023, has maintained a prominent media profile through press releases, podcasts, and investor communications. Below is a detailed overview of their public engagements:

Media Features & Publications

The company’s recent achievements include securing €100 million in its Series C funding round led by Marubeni Corporation, announced in November 2023. This marked one of Europe’s largest space tech funding rounds, emphasizing D-Orbit’s focus on expanding its orbital transfer vehicle (ION) fleet and in-orbit servicing capabilities. While specific third-party news articles are sparse in the provided results, the company actively publishes updates via its Press section, highlighting mission milestones and partnerships.

Podcasts & Interviews

• Luca Rossettini, founder and CEO, appeared on the Space Business Podcast (November 2021), discussing D-Orbit’s vision for space logistics, including interplanetary transport and satellite servicing.
• Lorenzo Ferrario, CTO, featured in The Third Angle podcast (February 2023), detailing ION spacecraft technology and mission operations.

Conference & Event Participation

Though explicit mentions of conferences or fairs are absent from the search results, D-Orbit frequently engages with industry stakeholders through investor announcements (e.g., Marubeni partnership) and mission updates. Their global expansion efforts into the U.S., UK, and Southeast Asia suggest participation in sector-specific events to promote their services.

---

Sources
D-Orbit Secures €100m Series C Funding
D-Orbit Press Releases
Marubeni Investment Announcement
Space Business Podcast Interview