Zürich, Switzerland: Cleantech venture capital pioneer Emerald announced today that its corporate venture capital (CVC)-as-a-service client Nabtesco Technology Ventures (NTV) has made an investment into satellite launch company Space One. The infusion, which will take the form of a convertible bond, will help Space One establish itself as Japan’s leading private-sector space services provider.
The emergence of space as a major frontier for both government and industrial development has sparked growth of companies making satellite launch vehicles and facilities, along with related supply chains. Analysts predict the global market to reach $32 billion by 2029, up from $13 billion last year. Applications range from communications to remote sensing to earth observation.
Space One’s small, solid-propellant rockets are stored fully fueled, accelerating launch timelines and enabling faster deployment compared to incumbent liquid-fueled systems typically used in launch vehicles. This positions Space One, whose first launch is scheduled for February 2023, as provider of choice for space services to clients across Asia and the world from its dedicated launcher and launch site in Japan. By 2027, the company aims to launch 20 satellites annually.
Nabtesco Corporation, parent company of NTV, makes aircraft flight control components and systems. With this investment, it aims to establish itself as a major new player in the space sector. As part of the investment deal, Nabtesco hopes to be the supplier of actuators for Space One through cooperative development.
Emerald advised Nabtesco on the deal under its unique CVC-as-a-service mandate. Under this framework, Emerald manages the investment activities of Nabtesco’s venture arm, aiming to provide the best value for collaboration with innovation vanguards like Space One. Read more about how Emerald works with Nabtesco and other Japanese industrial players.