Safran Corporate Ventures

A corporate venture capital arm of Safran SA, established in 2015. It invests in early-stage startups and innovative SMEs focused on greener aviation, connected aviation, advanced materials, industry 4.0, robotics, sensors, energy storage, and smart objects. Primarily investing in Europe and North America, with a focus on the United States, Safran Corporate Ventures prefers minority investments ranging from $1 million to $8 million.

Olivier Andriès

CEO

Pascal Bantegnie

CFO

Abdelheq Bouchekioua

Investment Director

John Todd

President and CEO

Past deals in Aerospace

Electra.aero

Series B in 2025
Electra.aero designs and manufactures hybrid-electric aircraft for sustainable urban and regional mobility. The company develops electric short takeoff and landing airplanes with pilot assistance systems, powered-lift, and distributed electric propulsion, supported by on-demand service that reduces reliance on ground charging and enables rapid turnaround. Its activities include aircraft design, certification, electric propulsion, acoustic testing, and production services, aimed at safe, quiet, and affordable transportation across diverse environments.

Blackshark.ai

Series A in 2023
Blackshark.ai specializes in creating a photorealistic 3D digital twin of Earth using satellite imagery. Its scalable AI platform detects global features with precision and speed, storing vast amounts of data for real-time visualization and simulation applications across industries such as government, geospatial intelligence, humanitarian relief, autonomous vehicles, insurance, and smart cities.

Collins Aerospace - Military Global Positioning

Acquisition in 2023
Collins Aerospace develops intelligent solutions for space exploration and defense. Collins Aerospace collaborates with clients and partners to envision, design, and deliver solutions that shape the future of the industry. Collins Aerospace serves industries such as commercial aviation, business aviation, military & defense, helicopters, space, and airports.

Vyoma

Seed Round in 2023
Vyoma develops a satellite-based observation and space-safety platform that combines a fleet of satellites with ML-driven software to catalog and monitor space debris, map space objects in real time, and assess orbital traffic. The system processes imagery and data to identify debris, track trajectories, and generate maneuvering instructions for satellites, enabling autonomous collision avoidance and safer operations as orbital congestion increases. Vyoma provides essential infrastructure for space safety by delivering accurate situational awareness and navigation guidance to satellite operators.

Cranfield Aerospace

Venture Round in 2023
Cranfield Aerospace is a pioneering aerospace company specializing in developing zero-emissions aircraft powered by hydrogen fuel. They focus on complex aircraft modifications and new aircraft design, serving prominent clients such as Airbus and Boeing.

Syrlinks

Acquisition in 2022
Syrlinks is a supplier of wireless and geolocation systems specifically designed for harsh environments. The company specializes in the development of radiocommunication and radio frequency products aimed at markets such as space, safety, defense, and time frequency. With expertise in electronics, radio frequency, signal processing, software, and mechanical design, Syrlinks possesses the necessary skills to create high-value equipment. Additionally, the company operates a manufacturing facility capable of producing small series of its products. Its global satellite tracking and data collection systems are focused on studying and protecting the planet's environment, ensuring clients receive solutions characterized by high quality, reliability, and performance.

Sintermat

Seed Round in 2022
Sintermat is a powder metallurgy company that develops and delivers material solutions for the metal industry and a range of application sectors. It designs performance materials for luxury, packaging, aeronautics, defense, and industrial tooling, supporting sectors such as aerospace, defense, and energy with enhanced performance while pursuing sustainability through material recycling and waste upcycling. The company explores bio-based feedstocks and waste streams, developing materials from sources including wood, leather, horn, husk, coffee grounds, oyster shells, snail shells, and fish scales to expand material options and reduce environmental impact.

Cranfield Aerospace

Venture Round in 2022
Cranfield Aerospace is a pioneering aerospace company specializing in developing zero-emissions aircraft powered by hydrogen fuel. They focus on complex aircraft modifications and new aircraft design, serving prominent clients such as Airbus and Boeing.

Aubert & Duval

Acquisition in 2022
Aubert & Duval is a Paris-based manufacturer that specializes in metallurgical solutions, focusing on high-performance metallic materials and products. The company designs, develops, and industrializes a range of offerings, including superalloys, forgings, special steel, aluminum, titanium, and metal powders. Aubert & Duval serves various industries, notably aerospace, defense, transportation, and tooling, catering to their specific metal requirements with advanced technological expertise.

Diota

Series B in 2019
Diota is a company based in Massy, France, specializing in augmented reality (AR) software solutions tailored for industrial applications. Founded in 2009, the company focuses on integrating digital data with human operators to enhance the efficiency of complex industrial processes. Its flagship product, DiotaPlayer, facilitates the use of AR across various industrial sectors, including manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and oil and gas. The software allows users to browse, interact with, check, report, and track information seamlessly within existing hardware and software environments. Diota’s solutions are compatible with multiple devices, such as tablets and head-mounted displays, making them versatile for different operational needs. Additionally, the company offers consulting, technical support, and training services to optimize the implementation of its technologies. Diota's client base includes major industry players such as Safran Group, Dassault Aviation, and Renault, positioning it as a key contributor to the digital transformation of the industrial landscape in Europe.

Turbotech

Venture Round in 2018
Turbotech is a French startup developing innovative on-board electric generation solutions for hybrid-electric aircraft. Their core product is a compact 55 kW turbo-generator, driven by a micro-turbine, which produces electricity from various fuel sources while recovering exhaust heat energy to maintain high efficiency. Additionally, they develop a lightweight 100 hp turboprop engine for light aircraft and helicopters, equipped with the same heat exchanger technology.

Kalray

Venture Round in 2017
Kalray S.A., headquartered in Montbonnot Saint Martin, France, specializes in providing low-power, time-critical processor solutions. The company offers massively parallel manycore array processors, including its patented Data Processing Unit (DPU) processors and acceleration cards. Kalray's products are designed for high-performance, data-centric computing markets, ranging from cloud to edge applications. Their offerings include software-defined storage solutions like the Kalray Target Controller and TurboBoost for secure communications, as well as development platforms and software tools such as AccessCore and Kalray Neural Network. These solutions cater to various industries including autonomous vehicles, aerospace/avionic, artificial intelligence, data storage, data networking, and computer vision. Founded in 2008 as a spin-off from the French CEA research lab, Kalray is committed to enhancing the efficiency of data centers and developing innovative solutions for sectors such as AI, Media & Entertainment, Life Sciences, Scientific Research, Edge Computing, and Automotive.

Safety Line

Venture Round in 2017
Safety Line, founded by Pierre Jouniaux in 2010, specializes in developing software that enhances safety and efficiency in the aviation sector. The company leverages its expertise in aeronautics and data processing to create innovative solutions that address safety, fuel economy, and environmental challenges faced by airline companies. By employing advanced technologies at the intersection of Big Data and Artificial Intelligence, Safety Line focuses on risk management, enabling airlines to mitigate risks, optimize flight phases, and reduce CO2 emissions. Its technical team consists of experienced professionals, including statisticians and experts with backgrounds in aviation safety, who work collaboratively to identify weak signals from recorded flight data. With a strong foundation in both national and international aviation standards, Safety Line aims to lead in the application of data analytics for improving aviation safety management.

Prodways Group

Venture Round in 2017
Prodways Group is a France-based company specializing in 3D printing solutions, catering to various sectors including jewelry, footwear, industrial design, architecture, engineering, and automotive. The company provides a range of professional 3D printers and materials aimed at both prototyping and industrial production. Prodways operates through two primary business segments: Products and Systems. The Systems segment encompasses several subsidiaries, including Prodways Americas, Prodways Materials, and Solidscape, while the Products segment features brands like Initial and Cristal. Notably, Prodways Group is recognized as one of the few companies capable of advancing 3D printing for series manufacturing, positioning itself as a viable alternative to the leading global players in the market. This strategic approach enables Prodways to offer a comprehensive array of 3D printing services, distinguishing it as the only non-US firm with such a diverse portfolio.

Zodiac Aerospace

Acquisition in 2017
Zodiac Aerospace specializes in the design, development, manufacturing, and marketing of aerospace equipment and systems, operating through two primary segments: Aerosystems and Aircraft Interiors. The Aerosystems segment provides a wide range of products, including aircraft evacuation systems, electric power management systems, and in-flight entertainment systems, catering to various applications in commercial, regional, business, and military aviation. The Aircraft Interiors segment focuses on passenger and crew seating, cabin interiors, and retrofit solutions, enhancing the comfort and functionality of aircraft cabins. The company has strengthened its position in the cabin interiors market through strategic acquisitions, such as Heath Tecna and Contour Aerospace, making it a leader in commercial aircraft seating. Founded in 1896 and headquartered in Plaisir, France, Zodiac Aerospace operates globally, with a presence in Europe, the United States, and other regions. As of March 2018, it is a subsidiary of Safran SA.

Diota

Series A in 2016
Diota is a company based in Massy, France, specializing in augmented reality (AR) software solutions tailored for industrial applications. Founded in 2009, the company focuses on integrating digital data with human operators to enhance the efficiency of complex industrial processes. Its flagship product, DiotaPlayer, facilitates the use of AR across various industrial sectors, including manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and oil and gas. The software allows users to browse, interact with, check, report, and track information seamlessly within existing hardware and software environments. Diota’s solutions are compatible with multiple devices, such as tablets and head-mounted displays, making them versatile for different operational needs. Additionally, the company offers consulting, technical support, and training services to optimize the implementation of its technologies. Diota's client base includes major industry players such as Safran Group, Dassault Aviation, and Renault, positioning it as a key contributor to the digital transformation of the industrial landscape in Europe.

Aerospace Propulsion Products

Acquisition in 2014
Aerospace Propulsion Products B.V. specializes in the development and production of gas generators and igniters for various applications, establishing itself as a European leader in rocket engine igniters for space launchers, including the Ariane 5 and Vega. The company offers a range of igniter technologies, such as catalytic igniters for space engine systems, pyrogen igniters that utilize solid propellant for both solid and liquid rocket engines, and spark torch igniters. Additionally, Aerospace Propulsion Products is involved in the production of fast gas generators designed for dust explosion suppression and is innovating new products based on patented cool gas generator technology. The firm also provides chlorine-free solid oxidizer hydrazinium nitroformate, which enhances the performance and storage of composite propellants.

Eaton - Aerospace Power Distribution Management Solutions and ICS business

Acquisition in 2014
Eaton - produces illuminated switches, cockpit panel assemblies, pilot controls, and passenger safety unit latches, as well as circuit protection, power distribution and switch components and sub-systems for aerospace and industrial applications.

Goodrich Lighting Systems GmbH

Acquisition in 2013
Goodrich Lighting Systems GmbH develops, designs, manufactures, maintains, and supports aircraft lighting equipment for UAVs, satellites, and ground and naval vehicles.

Colibrys

Acquisition in 2013
Colibrys is a Swiss manufacturer specializing in MEMS-based motion sensors, particularly capacitive accelerometers and gyros. The company focuses on providing high-performance sensors that ensure accuracy and long-term reliability. Colibrys not only manufactures standard and semi-custom components but also engages in the complete lifecycle of MEMS production, including design, development, wafer fabrication, packaging, and testing. Its products primarily serve the energy, aerospace, industrial, and instrumentation markets. Colibrys positions itself as a reliable partner for clients who require a consistent supply of advanced sensors, addressing the challenges associated with requalification programs for critical components.

Safran Power U.S.A.

Acquisition in 2012
Goodrich Electric Power Systems manufactures and distributes aircraft electrical generators and power distribution systems.

Sofradir SAS

Acquisition in 2012
Sofradir SAS specializes in the development and manufacturing of infrared (IR) detectors and related equipment. The company produces both cooled and uncooled IR detectors, as well as night vision modules and hand-held thermal imaging cameras. Additionally, Sofradir offers high-performance scientific cameras and thermography solutions. Its products cater to various sectors, including defense, military, space, and industrial applications, supporting a range of uses from surveillance to scientific research.

SNPE Matériaux Energétiques

Acquisition in 2011
SNPE Materiaux Energetiques (SME) is one of the leaders specializing in the research, development, production and commercialization of high-performance energetic, pyrotechnic and composite materials for Defence, Space, Aeronautics, Transport, Building, and leisure applications.

Optics 1

Acquisition in 2009
Optics 1 is a company that specializes in optics, opto-mechanics, and electro-optics, focusing on the design, development, and production of integrated systems and subsystems for the defense sector both in the United States and internationally. Its product offerings include laser rangefinders, markers, visual augmentation systems, precision north finding and inertial navigation systems, and targeting solutions, as well as OEM custom solutions tailored to meet specific client needs. In addition to its defense-related products, Optics 1 also manufactures a variety of commercial products for the medical, biotechnology, and electronics industries, providing a diverse range of electro-optical products, systems, and sensors to its clients.

E-Software

Acquisition in 2004
E-Software is a provider of hi-tech engineering services to the aerospace, energy and ground transport industries.

Labinal - Corinth

Acquisition in 2000
Labinal - Corinth Inc. manufactures and distributes wiring harnesses and wire bundle components for commercial jetliners and military aircrafts.
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