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Company Profile

Look Up Space

Look Up Space Secures EIC Accelerator Funding to Enhance Space Safety Technologies

FranceEIC Accelerator2023

Table of Contents

  1. The EIC Accelerator Project
  2. The Funding Rounds
  3. The Press Releases
  4. The Technology Advancements
  5. The Partnerships and Customers
  6. The Hiring and Company Growth
  7. The Media Features and Publications

1 The EIC Accelerator Project

EIC Accelerator Program Overview

The EIC Accelerator (formerly known as the EIC Accelerator Pilot) is a funding initiative of the European Innovation Council (EIC) aimed at supporting innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups, particularly in the DeepTech sector. The program is designed to assist companies in developing and scaling breakthrough innovations with high growth potential. By providing financial support and strategic guidance, the EIC Accelerator plays a crucial role in fostering a vibrant European startup ecosystem.

Funding Structure

The EIC Accelerator offers a unique blended finance model, combining both grant funding and equity investment.

1. Grant Funding: Companies can receive up to €2.5 million in grant funding. This grant is generally used to cover specific project costs, including research and development, prototypes, and market validation.
2. Equity Investment: The program also provides equity investment, which is crucial for companies looking to scale. Until 2024, the equity component can reach up to €15 million. From 2025 onwards, this amount will be capped at €10 million. The equity investment is designed to attract private sector funding by sharing the financial risk associated with high-risk innovations.

Purpose and Impact on the Ecosystem

The EIC Accelerator aims to bridge the funding gap for high-risk, high-potential innovations that may struggle to secure traditional financing. By offering both grants and equity, the program not only provides financial resources but also enhances the credibility of the startups in the eyes of private investors. This dual approach helps companies attract additional funding, facilitating their growth and market entry.

The initiative plays a vital role in the European DeepTech ecosystem, which encompasses cutting-edge technologies in fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and space technology. By supporting SMEs and startups in these sectors, the EIC Accelerator contributes to the overall competitiveness of Europe’s innovation landscape.

Scaling and Private Sector Funding

The EIC Accelerator's support enables companies to accelerate their development phases, from concept to market entry. The program also provides access to a network of industry experts, mentors, and potential partners, which can be invaluable for scaling operations. By combining public funding with private investment, the EIC Accelerator reduces the financial burden on startups, allowing them to focus on innovation and market strategies.

EIC Accelerator Winner: Look Up Space

Company Overview: Look Up Space is a French startup focused on revolutionizing space safety. Their project, ATLAS2 (Acceleration Towards LEO Automatic Space Safety), aims to enhance safety in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) operations.

Project Details: The ATLAS2 project is designed to automate space traffic management, which is increasingly important as the number of satellites and debris in LEO continues to grow. The project aims to develop a comprehensive system that can predict potential collisions and provide real-time data to operators, thereby ensuring safer operations in crowded orbital regions.

Funding Type: Look Up Space will benefit from the EIC Accelerator's blended finance model, receiving both grant funding and equity investment to support the development and scaling of their technology.

Technology Background: The ATLAS2 project incorporates advanced algorithms and artificial intelligence to monitor satellite movements and predict potential collision risks. By leveraging data analytics and machine learning, Look Up Space aims to create a robust framework for satellite operators to manage their assets more effectively. The technology is built upon existing satellite tracking systems, enhanced with innovative predictive analytics to enable proactive safety measures.

Recent Milestones: Look Up Space submitted their Step 2 proposal on November 8, 2023, and subsequently secured funding through the Step 3 interview process. This achievement underscores the project's innovation potential and the growing recognition of the importance of space safety in the global satellite industry.

The successful implementation of ATLAS2 could significantly impact the future of space operations, ensuring that the increasing number of satellites can coexist safely in LEO, thereby promoting sustainable practices in outer space exploration and utilization.

2 The Funding Rounds

# Look Up Space: EIC Accelerator Winner Financial Analysis

Look Up Space, a French space technology company, has successfully secured funding through the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program as part of the November 8, 2023 cut-off. The company has demonstrated significant growth through multiple funding rounds, establishing itself in the competitive space technology sector.

EIC Accelerator Funding

Look Up Space was among the 42 companies selected to receive funding following the final 2023 EIC Accelerator cut-off in November, with results announced on February 28, 2024. The total allocation for this funding round was €285 million distributed among the successful applicants.

The EIC Accelerator program offers different types of funding options: - Grant funding (up to €2.5 million)

  • Blended finance (combination of grants and equity investments)
  • Equity-only investments
  • Grant-only funding

While specific details about Look Up Space's exact funding amount from the EIC Accelerator aren't explicitly stated, the majority of companies in this cohort (62%) received blended finance, combining grants and equity investments through the EIC Fund.

Funding History

Look Up Space has raised a total of $15.4 million across four funding rounds:

1. June 22, 2023: Initial Grant
  • This appears to be the company's first recorded funding event
  • 2. June 22, 2023: Seed VC Round
  • Occurred simultaneously with the initial grant
  • 3. March 18, 2024: Grant II
  • A second grant funding, potentially related to the EIC Accelerator award announced in February 2024
  • 4. May 13, 2024: Incubator/Accelerator Program
  • The company's most recent funding event
  • Investor Information

    The available data indicates that Look Up Space has approximately 10 investors backing the company. However, specific details about these investors' identities are not provided in the search results.

    Valuation

    While exact valuation figures for Look Up Space aren't explicitly mentioned, the search results provide context about valuations in the space technology sector:

    • The space technology market has seen significant valuation growth, with companies like SpaceX reaching $150 billion
    • Loft Orbital, another French-American space technology company, recently achieved unicorn status with a valuation exceeding $1 billion after a €170 million Series C round in January 2025

    As a comparison point, Rocket Lab trades at approximately 10.8x its 2023 estimated revenue, reflecting the premium valuations that promising space technology companies can command.

    Market Context

    Look Up Space operates in a highly dynamic sector: - The space technology industry has seen substantial investment growth

    • French space technology companies have been securing significant funding rounds, including Unseenlabs' €85 million Series C and The Exploration Company's €150 million round
    • The EIC Accelerator is particularly focused on supporting deep tech companies with breakthrough innovations

    Future Prospects

    As an EIC Accelerator winner, Look Up Space is positioned to benefit from both financial support and the program's resources:

    • Companies typically receive grant financing within 2-3 months of selection
    • Equity investment decisions are made based on the urgency of the company's needs
    • The EIC Fund often attracts additional investors, potentially increasing the overall investment to more than three times the initial EIC investment

    No information about exit events such as IPOs, buyouts, or acquisitions related to Look Up Space is available in the search results.

    Sources: - CB Insights - Look Up Space Stock Price, Funding, Valuation

    3 The Press Releases

    Look Up Space: An EIC Accelerator Winner

    Company Overview

    Look Up Space, based in France, is a recipient of the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding. The company was selected for funding following a rigorous selection process, culminating in a Step 3 interview after submitting its proposal on November 8, 2023.

    EIC Accelerator Funding

    The EIC Accelerator is part of the Horizon Europe program, designed to support start-ups and SMEs in developing and scaling high-impact innovations. Look Up Space's participation in this program highlights its innovative approach to space technology, enhancing its capacity to bring impactful solutions to the market.

    Technology and Innovations

    While specific details about Look Up Space's technology are not available in the provided sources, the company's focus on space safety aligns with broader trends in space technology. These trends include advancements in satellite data analytics, space-based solar power, space debris management, and laser communications, all of which are transforming the space industry's capabilities and applications.

    Partnerships and Team Updates

    There is no specific information available regarding partnerships or team updates for Look Up Space. However, the EIC Accelerator provides a robust network of innovative companies across Europe, potentially fostering collaborations and synergies among funded entities.

    Patents and Intellectual Property

    Information on patents or intellectual property related to Look Up Space is not provided in the current sources. However, the European Patent Office's platform for space innovation offers resources that could support companies like Look Up Space in navigating patent landscapes and leveraging technical knowledge in cosmonautics and space observation.

    Press Releases and Updates

    Look Up Space's website does not appear to have publicly available press releases or updates specifically related to their EIC Accelerator funding. Companies often use social media or their official websites to share news and updates, but such information is not readily available for Look Up Space.

    Sources

    4 The Technology Advancements

    Overview of Look Up Space

    Look Up Space is a French space technology company founded in 2022 by Michel Friedling, former Space Commander, and Juan Carlos Dolado, former head of space surveillance at CNES. The company aims to enhance spaceflight safety and security by detecting and tracking small objects in space, providing raw data and solutions to both military and civil customers.

    Current Capabilities

    Look Up Space has developed two key systems:

    • SORASYS: A global network of ground-based radars positioned across French territories, designed to accurately detect and monitor centimetric-sized objects multiple times a day. This network improves the precision of orbital object cataloging and enhances space mission safety.
    • SYNAPSE: A dual and secured digital platform that integrates data from various sensors (radar, optical, laser, and passive RF) to deliver advanced conjunction assessments, maneuver recommendations, and orbital threat detection. This platform empowers customer-centric approaches to space safety, ensuring a safer and more secure space environment.

    Advancements Since Funding

    After securing a significant funding round of €14 million, which includes €7 million in private funding and €7 million in public subsidies, Look Up Space has continued to expand its capabilities. The company has successfully developed its prototype and hired a team of 30 experts from leading French and European space and digital companies.

    However, there is no specific information available regarding advancements directly linked to the EIC Accelerator funding received on November 8, 2023. The EIC Accelerator supports innovative projects with substantial funding, but details on Look Up Space's specific progress in this context are not publicly disclosed.

    Technology Demonstrations and Innovations

    Look Up Space has unveiled its first prototype and is at the forefront of revolutionizing space safety and security with its innovative solutions. The company's technology is designed to provide real-time surveillance, which is crucial for enhancing space mission safety. While there are no specific mentions of recent demonstrations with customers or pilots since the funding, the company's focus on advanced solutions for space security suggests ongoing development and potential for future demonstrations.

    Patents, Studies, and Publications

    There is no published information on new patents, scientific studies, or whitepapers from Look Up Space since the EIC Accelerator funding. The company's focus remains on developing its SORASYS and SYNAPSE systems for space surveillance and data integration.

    Conclusion

    Look Up Space continues to be a key player in European space technology, focusing on enhancing space security through advanced surveillance systems. While specific advancements directly tied to the EIC Accelerator funding are not detailed, the company's innovative approach and significant funding indicate ongoing development and potential for future breakthroughs in space safety and security.

    Sources: - Lookup space

    5 The Partnerships and Customers

    Look Up Space: Strategic Partnerships and Market Positioning Post-EIC Accelerator Funding

    Look Up Space, a French deep-tech company specializing in dual-use satellite technologies, secured EIC Accelerator funding in November 2023. While specific customer names and immediate partnerships for Look Up Space are not publicly disclosed in available records, the European Innovation Council’s (EIC) ecosystem provides critical insights into its likely collaboration framework and growth trajectory.

    Key Relationships and Ecosystem Support

    As an EIC Accelerator winner, Look Up Space gains access to the CASSINI Business Accelerator, Europe’s largest space startup accelerator. Though direct cohort participation details are unspecified for Look Up Space here, CASSINI offers tailored mentoring, investor matchmaking, and commercialization support—essential for scaling dual-use space technologies. Additionally, the EIC Ecosystem Partnerships Programme connects recipients like Look Up Space to over 150 partners across venture capital networks (e.g., corporate VCs), industry experts, and accelerators such as SpaceFounders, which specializes in space-tech ventures.

    Technology Advancements and Scaling Pathways

    • Dual-Use Satellite Innovations: The EIC’s 2023 "Space & Defence" Challenge prioritized funding for companies advancing satellite technologies applicable to both civilian and defense sectors—aligning with Look Up Space’s likely focus areas.
    • Market Positioning: Partnerships with entities like CASIS (as seen with Vast’s Haven-1) or defense contractors could position Look Up Space as a key player in sovereign space infrastructure. The EIC Fund’s co-investment model further enhances credibility for follow-on funding rounds.
    • Collaborative Networks: Through initiatives like the EIC Marketplace (a platform fostering cross-industry innovation synergies), Look Up Space can collaborate with complementary tech developers or research institutions to accelerate R&D cycles.

    Future Outlook

    Post-funding, strategic alliances under programs like CASSINI or partnerships akin to Vast-CASIS collaborations could enable LookUpSpace to target NASA-contracted missions or EU defense projects. Such relationships would drive advancements in payload miniaturization, AI-driven satellite analytics, or secure communication systems—critical areas emphasized by recent EIC challenges.

    Sources

  • EIC space companies selected for CASSINI Business Accelerator
  • The provided sources do not explicitly mention "LookUpSpace," but detail structural opportunities available to all EIC-funded space companies. If additional data about this specific company emerges from non-public channels or proprietary databases beyond indexed materials here further updates will refine this analysis. ---

    Note: Publicly verifiable specifics about customers/partners of "LookUpSpace" were unavailable; institutional frameworks from cited sources outline probable pathways.

    6 The Hiring and Company Growth

    Look Up Space: Post-EIC Accelerator Funding Developments

    Look Up Space, a French company and recent winner of the EIC Accelerator funding in November 2023, has not shared detailed information regarding their current hiring activities, team size, or growth since receiving the funding. However, winning such a prestigious award typically signals significant potential for growth and expansion.

    Hiring and Team Growth

    • Current Status: There is no available information on whether Look Up Space is currently hiring or expanding its team. The company's website does not provide updates on recent hirings or open positions.
    • Key Positions: No specific details are available about key positions that have been filled recently.

    Current Team Size and Headcount

    • Current Team Size: The exact size of Look Up Space's current team is not publicly disclosed.
    • Headcount Growth: Since there is no baseline data on the company's initial headcount before the funding, it is difficult to assess the extent of growth.

    Impact of New Team Members

  • Future Outlook: New team members, if recruited, would likely play a crucial role in scaling and growing the company, especially in areas such as technology development, marketing, and sales. Their contributions would be essential for leveraging the EIC Accelerator funding effectively.
  • Management Changes

  • Founding Team Changes: There is no public information available on any changes to the founding team or management structure following the funding.
  • Conclusion

    While Look Up Space has not publicly shared specific details about their hiring or team growth, the EIC Accelerator funding is a strong indicator of their potential for future expansion and innovation. A significant portion of this funding will likely be directed towards enhancing their capabilities and expanding their team to meet strategic goals.

    Sources:

    • Look Up Space Website
    • No specific search results were found related to Look Up Space's hiring or team growth.

    7 The Media Features and Publications

    Overview of Look Up Space

    Look Up Space, a French company founded in 2022 by Michel Friedling and Juan Carlos Dolado, aims to enhance space safety and sustainability by detecting and tracking objects in low-Earth orbit. The company has developed a network of SORASYS radars and a digital platform called SYNAPSE to provide precise data and services to both public and private space operators.

    Media Features and Publications

    Look Up Space has been featured in several media outlets and publications, including France24 in its program "People & Profit." The company was highlighted for its innovative approach to making space more sustainable and safe. Additionally, Look Up Space's achievements and mission have been covered by Business France during the French Space Days event, where the company's solutions for enhancing space safety were showcased.

    Podcasts and Interviews

    There is no specific information available on podcasts or interviews featuring the team of Look Up Space. However, the company's founders have been associated with significant space-related discussions, given their backgrounds in space command and surveillance.

    Conference and Fair Participations

    Look Up Space is likely to participate in major space conferences and fairs, given its role in the space tech sector. While specific details about their participations are not available, companies like Look Up Space often engage in events such as the Space Symposium or Space Tech Expo to network and showcase their innovations. These events provide platforms for companies to connect with potential partners and investors in the space industry.

    Involvement in Events

    As a pioneer in space safety and security solutions, Look Up Space is involved in various initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable space activities. Their involvement includes developing advanced radar systems and digital platforms to support safer space operations. The company's participation in events like the French Space Days underscores its commitment to advancing space safety and sustainability.

    EIC Accelerator Funding

    Look Up Space won the EIC Accelerator funding on November 8, 2023. This funding supports the company's mission to enhance space safety by developing and deploying its innovative technologies.

    Conclusion

    Look Up Space is positioned as a leader in space safety and security, leveraging advanced technologies to ensure sustainable space activities. With its innovative solutions and participation in key events, the company contributes significantly to the global effort towards a safer and more sustainable space environment.

    Sources:

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