
Safran Corporate Ventures
Description
Safran Corporate Ventures serves as the dedicated corporate venture capital arm of the Safran Group, a leading international high-technology group operating in the aerospace, defense, and security markets. Established in 2015, its primary mission is to identify and invest in innovative startups whose technologies and business models are strategically complementary to Safran's core activities. This approach allows Safran to access cutting-edge innovations, foster new partnerships, and potentially integrate disruptive technologies into its future product lines and services, thereby strengthening its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
The fund is specifically designed to support early-stage companies, typically engaging in Seed, Series A, and Series B funding rounds. Safran Corporate Ventures manages a dedicated fund with a substantial capital base of €100 million, equivalent to approximately $108 million USD. This financial backing enables them to make meaningful investments in promising ventures. Since its inception, the corporate venture arm has demonstrated a consistent investment pace, having invested in around twenty startups across its target sectors. This selective yet active investment strategy underscores their commitment to building a diversified portfolio of high-potential companies that align with Safran's long-term strategic vision.
When considering investments, Safran Corporate Ventures typically deploys initial cheques ranging from €1 million to €5 million, which translates to approximately $1.08 million to $5.4 million USD. This range indicates a preference for significant minority stakes, providing startups with crucial capital for growth and development. Beyond financial investment, portfolio companies gain invaluable access to Safran's extensive industrial expertise, global network, and potential for commercial partnerships, including opportunities for joint development and market access. This strategic value proposition extends beyond mere capital, offering startups a unique pathway to accelerate their technological and market adoption within the aerospace, defense, and security ecosystems.
Investor Profile
Safran Corporate Ventures has backed more than 28 startups, with 1 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 6 rounds, about 21% of its total and boasts 4 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Series A, Series Unknown, Series B rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in France, Germany, United States.
- Strong thematic focus on Energy, Aerospace, Manufacturing.
- Led 1 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $1.1M – $5.4M.
Stage Focus
- Series A (36%)
- Series Unknown (32%)
- Series B (18%)
- Seed (11%)
- Series C (4%)
Country Focus
- France (64%)
- Germany (18%)
- United States (7%)
- United Kingdom (7%)
- Austria (4%)
Industry Focus
- Energy
- Aerospace
- Manufacturing
- Software
- Information Technology
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Robotics
- Environmental Engineering
- Telecommunications
- Chemical Engineering
Frequently Asked Questions
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