France-based, Exotrail was spun out of Polytechique & SATT Paris-Saclay in 2015, by founders Jean-Luc Maria (CEO) (prev. CTO), David Henri (CPO) (prev. CEO), Nicolas Heitz (COO), & Paul Lascombes (Chief Scientist). By 2017, the firm started manufacturing miniaturized electric propulsion systems for nano, micro & small satellites. Today, it is a global reference in “space logistics”, through its mobilityhub™ across 4 products: spaceware™: “whether you’re looking to deploy a constellation, change the altitude or inclinitation, or perform orbit phasing” Exotrail has developed a family of electric propulsion systems for satellites ranging from 5kg to 1ton. Exotrail managed to miniaturize the Hall-effect thruster multiplying thrust 5-6x (vs other electric propulsion systems) – a key tech advantage....

UK-based, Kelpi is manufacturing seaweed-based coatings for paper & card packaging. The firm’s bio-coating have a uniquely strong water & oxygen barrier, are resistant to grease & acid, & fully compostable/ marine-safe. The derived packaging materials share similar characteristics (but ultimately replace) plastic (packaging). Kelpi will use the funds to i) conduct manufacturing pilots for packaging for a global beverage brand, ii) cold & hot packaging/ treys for a food brand, iii) clients in cosmetics & iv) personal care, v) as well as polybags for fashion (the company is a finalist for the TOM FORD Plastic Innovation Prize, alongside UK-based Notpla). Reducing plastic consumption is obviously important: only 9% of gets recycled, 11% is incinerated...