Materialise, a global leader in additive manufacturing (AM) software and service solutions, announced the opening of an Aerospace Competence Center in the Aerospace Innovation Hub in Delft.

By joining the Aerospace Innovation Hub in Delft, Materialise brings additive manufacturing expertise to the growing aerospace community

Materialise, a global leader in additive manufacturing (AM) software and service solutions, announced the opening of an Aerospace Competence Center in the Aerospace Innovation Hub in Delft. The city is a known aerospace powerhouse in Europe, and Materialise is the first AM company to establish its footprint in the hub.

From left to right: Niels Krol, Sr. Account Manager Aerospace, Aerospace Delta; Maaike Zwart, Vice Mayor, City of Delft; Brigitte de Vet-Veithen, CEO, Materialise; Henri Werij, Dean of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, TU Delft; Femke Verdegaal, Strategic Partnership Manager Aerospace Engineering, TU Delft / Aerospace Innovation Hub

“The opening of our new Aerospace Competence Center aligns with our commitment to support the aerospace industry through more than three decades of experience in additive manufacturing and software solutions, as well as our pioneering role in producing certified parts,” said Brigitte de Vet-Veithen, CEO of Materialise. “By joining this selective aerospace network, we can strengthen our capabilities, expand partnerships, and enable other aerospace leaders in this hub to accelerate innovation and explore new possibilities with AM.”

Materialise is a pioneer and market leader in the development and production of 3D-printed parts used in the aerospace sector. The company has delivered more than 500,000 3D-printed aerospace parts, with about 4,000 different types of parts printed per year.

“We are proud to welcome Materialise to Delft, a city where innovation and collaboration thrive,” says Vice Mayor Maaike Zwart of the City of Delft. “By joining the Aerospace Innovation Hub, Materialise strengthens our dynamic Aerospace Delta ecosystem and the Innovation District Delft, paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in 3D printing and sustainable aviation. I’m truly excited to see the partnerships, ideas, and innovations that will grow from your presence here. Together, we are shaping the future of technology.”

Materialise CEO Brigitte de Vet speaking into a microphone at the opening of Materialise's Aerospace Competence Center
Vice Mayor Maaike Zwart of the City of Delft speaking into a microphone at the opening of Materialise's Aerospace Competence Center
Henri Werij, Dean of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering TU Delft, speaking into a microphone at the opening of Materialise's Aerospace Competence Center

As the largest AM service provider for aerospace, Materialise holds a comprehensive set of flight-ready accreditations, including Production Organization Approval (POA) from EASA and EN 9100 certified manufacturing for flying parts. It serves the entire aerospace value chain, from OEMs to airlines and MROs to supplier tiers.

The Aerospace Innovation Hub @TU Delft fosters innovation by connecting startups, students, academics, government, and industry professionals in the heart of TU Delft’s Aerospace Engineering Faculty. Materialise and @TU Delft will collaborate on projects where students and researchers can gain hands-on experience with AM while advancing developments in sustainable aviation. Materialise joins industry giants Airbus and Collins Aerospace, among others, at the Hub.

“At TU Delft, our mission is to create impact for a better society through education, research, life-long learning, and innovation. With the Aerospace Innovation Hub, we support this mission by accelerating innovations and bringing them to market. The arrival of Materialise at the Hub marks an exciting step toward deeper collaboration and new opportunities to drive additive manufacturing expertise to the growing aerospace community,” said Henri Werij, Dean of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering TU Delft.

Crowd of attendees at the opening of Materialise's Aerospace Competence Center at TU Delft
Materialise CEO Brigitte de Vet receiving a gift of a model airplane at the opening of Materialise's Aerospace Competence Center

Additive manufacturing has proven to be an effective technology for solving long-standing industry challenges. It offers supply chain advantages, including shorter lead times and more affordable small series. AM aircraft parts can reduce stock risk, warehousing costs, and downtime related to repairs and maintenance.

The technology also enables unrivaled design freedom by offering fast-iteration design, rapid prototyping, and the ability to rethink components and assemblies without retooling manufacturing operations.

In addition to existing certified processes for aerospace, Materialise helps companies develop and qualify new AM applications and materials. The company also maintains a data lake that provides access to performance data from hundreds of aerospace builds, enabling users to make informed decisions based on real-life components.

Pictures are available for download here

About Materialise

Materialise incorporates more than three decades of 3D printing experience into a range of software solutions and 3D printing services that empower sustainable 3D printing applications. Our open, secure, and flexible end-to-end solutions enable industrial manufacturing and mass personalization in various industries — including healthcare, automotive, aerospace, eyewear, art and design, wearables, and consumer goods. Headquartered in Belgium and with branches worldwide, Materialise combines the largest group of software developers in the industry with one of the world’s largest and most complete 3D printing facilities

About Aerospace Innovation Hub @ TU Delft

The Aerospace Innovation Hub is the premier aerospace innovation and entrepreneurship community in the Netherlands, based at TU Delft’s Faculty of Aerospace Engineering. By connecting researchers, students, government, and industry, the hub creates a dynamic ecosystem where knowledge, technology, and entrepreneurship converge. It offers networking opportunities, mentorship, office space, and direct access to TU Delft researchers and talent. The Aerospace Innovation Hub drives innovation in the aerospace sector, with a focus on sustainability, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology.
Learn more: www.aerospaceinnovationhub.nl

Spherical, based in Rotterdam and Noordwijk, designs chips and manufactures satellite systems. The company is rapidly growing on its path to commercialization. Their goal: to have their own subsystem in orbit as soon as possible. “On Earth, major tech giants produce their own chips. When you design your own chip, you can integrate everything into a single chip; you qualify it once, and you control the entire supply chain.” This high-tech company serves a niche market within the space industry, but according to co-founder Bastiaan Bom, their innovations are also applicable to other domains within the Aerospace Delta – in the Netherlands, Europe, and beyond. By developing their own subsystems, they are working toward a future in which Europe is less dependent on foreign components. What’s happening in space?

This article is part of a series that provides entrepreneurs from Aerospace Delta a platform to share their journey –  from initial ideas to market entry and realization. What steps do they take, and what is their role within the Aerospace ecosystem?

  • Read the story of Maeve here.
  • Read the story of Vaeridion here.
Bastiaan Bom van SPHERICAL Systems

Thomas Parry (CEO) and Bastiaan Bom (CCO) of SPHERICAL

Just like major tech companies on Earth develop their own chips to gain full control over the supply chain, Spherical is working towards similar autonomy in space. While the global space industry was valued at approximately $630 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow to $1.8 trillion by 2035 (source: McKinsey), it remains relatively small compared to the much larger consumer market. Chip manufacturers that produce components for smartphones, for instance, operate in a market with significantly higher revenues and faster economies of scale. “Space remains a specialized market,” Bom explains. In a relatively short time, he has gained momentum by combining entrepreneurship with cutting-edge technological ingenuity.

Spherical’s first product, the Power Condition and Distribution Unit (PCDU), can be compared to a smart electrical panel for satellites. This system manages and distributes power to crucial satellite components such as communication systems and navigation equipment, including GPS or Galileo. Thanks to Spherical’s chips, the PCDU can be flexibly configured via software. This allows the system to be adapted for different missions without requiring hardware modifications—a win-win for satellite manufacturers.

The challenge: making electronics space-ready

Developing electronics for space comes with unique challenges. Components must withstand radiation and extreme temperature fluctuations. Moreover, the lifespan of components within a system is critical—failure in space often means the end of a satellite. “Much of the electronics used in space are based on a limited selection of generic components,” Bom explains. “If a component is no longer available, you often have to redesign the entire system. This makes systems large, inefficient, and vulnerable.”

Spherical addresses this issue by designing proprietary chips that integrate multiple functions. This approach makes systems up to ten times smaller and more efficient. By reducing reliance on generic components sourced from the U.S. or other regions, Spherical offers a scalable, flexible, and sustainable solution. “Our chips are manufactured in Europe using automotive-sector technologies that are also suitable for space applications. This way, we contribute to European independence and strengthen the regional ecosystem.”

Bom is also involved in dual-use applications, where products serve both civilian and military purposes. Spherical has been selected for the NATO DIANA Accelerator Program, making it the only space company from the Netherlands to participate. “This is an exciting development, as it allows us to contribute to critical communication and observation technologies. For defense, it is essential to be able to communicate from anywhere in the world, reducing dependencies.”

Radiation and Vibration Testing

To test their systems, Spherical collaborates with Dutch facilities such as the Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR). “In the Netherlands, we have access to facilities that allow us to conduct radiation testing. This way, we can test our system and ensure that it remains operational throughout its lifespan.” The aerospace sector also brings unexpected opportunities for collaboration. Bastiaan recalls how he met the team behind Veoware, a Flemish company specializing in satellite rotation technology. “I happened to meet them on a plane while traveling to a conference. During our conversation, we realized that we were both working on power systems—Veoware from Leuven, Belgium, and Spherical from the Netherlands.”

Both companies shared the ambition to miniaturize their systems, particularly to reduce dependency on U.S.-sourced components. “That aligned perfectly with our value proposition, so we took up the challenge, and that’s how we got involved in the Crossroads program.”

Support Through Crossroads

The Crossroads initiative, an Interreg Flanders-Netherlands program, provided Spherical not only with financial support but also with valuable guidance. The program helped streamline administrative processes, enabling them to successfully secure funding. Bom explains: “Crossroads acted as a knowledge hub, assisting us in correctly completing documentation and obtaining administrative approvals.” Liesbeth Leurs, Senior Business Developer at InnovationQuarter, provided hands-on guidance throughout the process. “This support gave us confidence and focus, allowing us to concentrate on technological development.”

Funding: Fueling Spherical’s Growth

Beyond technology development, funding plays a crucial role in the company’s growth. With backing from investors like UNIIQ, Spherical has expanded its team and is steadily progressing towards its first in-orbit demonstration, planned for mid-2025. Bom looks back fondly on their first funding experience: “We boldly sent out an email and got an immediate response—asking if we could come by to pitch our idea.” From there, Bom and his team navigated an intense 2-3 month process, where every aspect of their business plan was scrutinized. “Looking back, the due diligence process was particularly demanding. But in the end, it gave us a crucial seal of approval that helped convince other investors as well. It’s truly a ‘stamp of approval’ for our continued development.”

Bastiaan Bom en zijn team bij SPHERICAL

A Look into the Future

While space technology remains Spherical’s primary focus, their ambitions extend beyond. Their expertise in chip design and system integration can also be applied to other sectors, such as aerospace. This presents opportunities to develop more efficient and compact avionics systems, though certification processes in this sector pose additional challenges. “In the Netherlands, our customer base is limited—there are some satellite manufacturers—but our main clients are in Europe and worldwide. To become part of these supply chains, it is crucial that we collaborate at the European level, ensuring access to our own technology. The Netherlands excels in identifying and leveraging the right niches, which other countries need to complete their products, projects, and missions.”

Part of the European Semiconductor Ecosystem

Spherical’s niche aligns well with the European semiconductor ecosystem (semicon). Through initiatives like the ChipNL Competence Centre and participation in international trade missions, the company is actively building strategic partnerships and exploring new markets, such as Japan.

The ChipNL Competence Centre supports companies with access to pilot production lines, design platforms, funding opportunities, and talent programs. Through the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN), Spherical secured a place on a trade mission to Japan.

“Japanese satellite manufacturers have a demand for our products. We want to better understand this market and apply our expertise there,” says Bom. Additionally, he actively participates in international EEN matchmaking events, such as the Space Tech Expo in Bremen.

The ChipNL Competence Centre is a collaborative initiative involving Brainport Development, ChipTech Twente, High Tech NL, TNO, JePPIX, imec, and regional development agencies including OostNL, BOM, and InnovationQuarter. The center focuses on supporting and connecting segments of the semiconductor value chain with Dutch SMEs, startups, and scale-ups, particularly in areas such as semiconductor manufacturing equipment, chip design, (integrated) photonics, quantum technology, and heterogeneous integration.

Through EEN, where InnovationQuarter is one of seven regional development partners, Spherical gained access to trade missions, including one to Japan. This market is particularly valuable for Spherical due to its highly specialized satellite manufacturers, who need advanced satellite systems like those developed by Spherical.

Collaboration in Aerospace Delta

Aerospace Delta is a rapidly growing cluster of 260 companies and knowledge institutions and 9,000 employees in the aerospace, aviation, and drone sectors. The region brings together a wide range of parties: from innovative engineering companies to large manufacturers and suppliers. Academic institutions such as TU Delft, which ranks among the top three worldwide with its Faculty of Aerospace EngineeringErasmus University, and Leiden University contribute their expertise in technology, economics, and law. In addition, there are key research institutes like ESA-ESTECTNO, and SRON, as well as incubators like YES!Delft and the Aerospace Innovation Hub, which help startups to grow. The collaboration among all these parties, supported by the province of South Holland and local governments, ensures that the aerospace cluster continues to strengthen, for example through the development of specialised test labs and innovation hubs.

Almost two decades ago, Ivor van Dartel, Co-founder and CEO of Vaeridion, realized that electric aviation could cast the industry in a new, more positive light. However, he could not have anticipated how quickly the technology would progress in the years that followed. In a short span of time, electric cars gained traction, and batteries became smaller and more efficient. Sectors like automotive, mobile communications, and computing made significant advancements in lithium-ion technology. These developments have resulted in battery cells powerful enough to propel an electric airplane, marking a significant step forward for the aviation industry. Today, in 2025, the technological prerequisites and regulations are in place. Vaeridion is ready to make emission-free flying a reality. “It works—we’ve received the green light for small aircraft with a capacity of up to nine passengers and a range of 400 kilometers plus reserves.”

This article is part of a series that provides entrepreneurs from Aerospace Delta a platform to share their journey from initial ideas to market entry and realization. What steps do they take, and what is their role within the Aerospace ecosystem? Read the story of Maeve Aerospace here

The electric microliner of Vaeridion

Vaeridion’s Microliner is set to take its first flight in 2027, with the first commercial flight planned for 2030.

Why now? The perfect timing for emission-free aviation

Back in 2007, during his studies in aerospace engineering at Delft University of Technology, Ivor discovered the potential of electrification. “During a design project, I realized how well electric propulsion systems suited smaller airplanes. The assignment: design a four-seat training aircraft with sustainability at its core. That idea never left me,” he recalls. After finishing his MSc thesis project within Lockheed Martin on the F-35 electrical system, Ivor joined Airbus where he held several roles, including project leader for the Hybrid Electric Propulsion System of the E-Fan X Hybrid Electric Demonstrator. After his tenure at Airbus, Ivor decided in 2021 to establish his own company focused on a more sustainable aviation future.

The aviation industry is at a tipping point. Thanks to technological breakthroughs, such as more efficient batteries and improved energy density in lithium-ion technology, the conditions are finally ripe for making electric aviation not only technically but, more importantly, economically viable.
“The infrastructure is in place, and so is the technology. What are we waiting for?” asks Bozhena Hryvnak, Head of Growth at Vearidion. With our proprietary technology, small aircraft can carry up to nine passengers over distances of 400 kilometers—emission-free and with minimal operational costs.”

Electric aviation versus high-speed rail

Electric aviation opens up regions that are often difficult to access with existing infrastructure. “High-speed trains are fantastic for long distances between major cities, but many medium-sized cities lack direct rail connections or access to such networks,” Ivor explains. “What they do have are regional airports that, with our emission-free planes, suddenly become commercially viable again.”

By deploying small, electric aircraft, business travelers and commuters can connect quickly and sustainably to destinations that were previously too far away or too expensive to reach. This solution avoids the multi-billion investments needed to expand rail networks. “We don’t see this as competition with trains but rather as a complementary solution. Both modes of transport perfectly complement each other,” adds Bozhena.

With Vaeridion’s nine-seater aircraft, regional connections can be made more efficient, affordable, and cleaner, while travelers retain the freedom to move quickly between cities, regardless of distance or existing infrastructure. “This way, business travelers can journey cleanly and emission-free, even between, for example, Rotterdam and Groningen, saving valuable time compared to traditional travel options.”

Technology that makes a difference

“We project our cost per seat to be comparable to a first-class high-speed train ticket A business traveler can fly emission-free for just a few hundred euros,” Ivor explains. This technology is not only sustainable but also economically viable. Vaeridion’s electric aircraft stand out by their unique propulsion system, designed to maximize safety and efficiency, and the novel installation concept where the most advanced battery modules are mounted into the wing. Moreover, their low maintenance cost and energy consumption result in significant cost savings over conventional aircraft. The company is also collaborating with Dutch and German research institutions to further enhance their product.

What does an electric aircraft offer compared to conventional vehicles? “These types of aircraft have highly efficient propulsion systems, optimized performance, and minimal operating costs. It’s logical: the operational costs decrease because you use less energy.”

The past years at Vaeridion have been entirely dedicated to innovation and validation. “In the first 2.5 years, we focused on validating our concept, developing the technology, and conducting hardware tests,” says Ivor. A critical milestone in this process was the completion of the Pre-Application Contract with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) confirming that the Microliner meets certification standards for commercial passenger aircraft.

Vaeridion bridges Delft and Bavaria

Plans to establish a permanent location in Delft are in full swing. “South Holland offers world-class elements,” Ivor explains. “Consider the presence of TU Delft, the largest aerospace faculty in the Western world, educating 400 students annually. Additionally, we are part of the Aerospace Innovation Hub, which connects us directly with young talent.” Delft’s location offers more than just access to talent. With institutions such as the Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR) and Netherlands Aerospace Group (NAG), the proximity to Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RHIA), and leading companies like GKN, South Holland is known for its strong research and production landscape. These factors make it the ideal place to merge Vaeridion’s expertise from Bavaria with Dutch innovation.
“The dialogue here goes beyond just technology,” explains Bozhena. “There is a clear focus on how we can collectively address technological, societal, and environmental challenges.” By connecting these ecosystems, Vaeridion strengthens the international aviation sector. In an earlier phase, InnovationQuarter Capital invested in Vaeridion. According to Ivor van Dartel, this partnership was no coincidence: “From the start, they understood what we wanted to achieve. They think not in terms of profit but in terms of impact.”

A future of clean aviation

With a recent Series A investment of €14 million, led by World Fund with participation from Project A Ventures, Vsquared Ventures, Andreas Kupke, Schwarz Holding, and InnovationQuarter, Vaeridion has taken substantial steps toward scaling up. New testing facilities are being established, and battery module production is being expanded. Having proven the concept, the company is entering a new phase of scaling. The team is growing rapidly and will soon consist of 70 to 80 employees, doubling in size compared to last year.

“The dialogue here goes beyond just technology. There is a clear focus on how we can collectively address technological, societal, and environmental challenges.” By connecting these ecosystems, Vaeridion strengthens the international aviation sector.

– Bozhena Hryvnak, Head of Growth Vaeridion

Collaboration in Aerospace Delta

Aerospace Delta is a rapidly growing cluster of 260 companies and knowledge institutions and 9,000 employees in the aerospace, aviation, and drone sectors. The region brings together a wide range of parties: from innovative engineering companies to large manufacturers and suppliers. Academic institutions such as TU Delft, which ranks among the top three worldwide with its Faculty of Aerospace EngineeringErasmus University, and Leiden University contribute their expertise in technology, economics, and law. In addition, there are key research institutes like ESA-ESTECTNO, and SRON, as well as incubators like YES!Delft and the Aerospace Innovation Hub, which help startups to grow. The collaboration among all these parties, supported by the province of South Holland and local governments, ensures that the aerospace cluster continues to strengthen, for example through the development of specialised test labs and innovation hubs.

PAMI-1 is the first in a series of satellites to strengthen Dutch space capabilities

FSO Instruments and partners will develop, build and launch a satellite for the Netherlands’ Armed Forces to be launched in 2027. The satellite, PAMI-1, will support intelligence gathering for the Netherlands by offering a sovereign capability to monitor earth from space. PAMI-1 will also demonstrate laser satellite communication technology that provides fast and secure transfer of information, back to a ground station as well as to other satellites.

Driven by worldwide geopolitical changes, The Netherlands has recognized a need to strengthen their information position. Intelligence from satellites has become indispensable to provide the information needed for armed forces around the world. Space intelligence is provided by cameras and other sensors with the ability to acquire the information, as well as by the ability to transfer this information in a fast and secure manner back to earth.

The Dutch Armed Forces need to continue to build up their sovereign space capabilities

The Armed Forces of the Netherlands have identified a need to further develop their own space capabilities. The Defense Space Security Centre, part of the Royal Dutch Air Force, leads the effort of implementing the space strategy for the Netherlands’ Defense. PAMI-1 provides a significant step towards establishing the Dutch capability to gather sovereign intelligence from space. The capability will also contribute to further strengthening international cooperations within NATO, EU and others.

PAMI-1 will be built by a Dutch consortium, making use of world class capabilities

The consortium that will build PAMI-1 is led by FSO Instruments and Axient Systems. FSO Instruments, which initiated the project, will take a leading role in the PAMI Project Office, in addition to providing the laser satellite communication technology. Axient Systems, a Delft-based wholly owned subsidiary of Astrion, a 6000 person US defense contractor, contributes its wealth of experience in space projects by taking responsibility for mission integration.

The satellite will be fully built in the Netherlands. A key member of the consortium is contract manufacturer VDL ETG who will build the satellite. This will be a space-flight-proven Saturn ESPA-grande satellite platform from Blue Canyon Technologies, Raytheon’s small satellite manufacturer and mission services provider. The earth observation payload will be developed and delivered by cosine, a leader in the development of optical remote sensing payloads based in the Netherlands. The project is further supported by the world class Dutch ecosystem for space and high-tech, encompassing research institutes TNO and NLR as well as a range of larger and smaller companies. The consortium combines the world leading position that the Netherlands has in high-tech manufacturing for semiconductors with the equally advanced expertise on space technology also available in the Netherlands.

Will Crowcombe, Managing Director of FSO Instruments, says “We are thrilled with the opportunity to work closely together with the Dutch Armed Forces and our ecosystem partners to support the space security needs of the Netherlands with the Dutch high tech ecosystem. This is one of the best ways we can think of to showcase our dual-use technology and further develop the Dutch manufacturing capabilities for industrial space.”

Jay Kovacs, Managing Director of Axient Systems and Sr. Vice President for International and Commercial Programs for Astrion, added “We are proud to bring our mission integration experience to the PAMI-1 mission and the Netherlands. PAMI-1 will help establish a sovereign space capability for the Dutch Space Security Centre and we are excited to partner with FSO Instruments and our other consortium members help them realize this goal.”

PAMI-1 will launch in the first half of 2027 as the first satellite in a series

The longer term space ambitions of the Netherlands, both for military and civilian applications, reach beyond a single mission. In order to fulfil future requirements, e.g. to collect more data and to provide better coverage, multiple satellites will be required for which the consortium partners will invest in the associated manufacturing capacity. As such, the PAMI program will support the development of the Dutch manufacturing infrastructure for space assets.

PAMI-1 is funded through Industrial Participation from Raytheon and other government sources

FSO Instruments and consortium partners have been able to realize the project kick-off in a short period of time. This has been made possible by Raytheon, who is supporting the project with Industrial Participation funding, as well as by support from the Netherlands’ Ministries of Defense and Economic Affairs.

About FSO Instruments

FSO Instruments, domiciled in Delft, The Netherlands, develops, produces and supplies high-quality instruments for free-space optics (FSO), in particular products for laser satellite communications. FSO Instruments, a joint venture of Demcon and VDL Groep, builds on groundbreaking technology developed by TNO, the Dutch organization for applied scientific research. A core team of systems architects, senior engineers and business developers works closely together with Demcon, VDL ETG, TNO and specialized suppliers.

The Delft-based aircraft manufacturer Maeve Aerospace is ready to bring change to the aviation sector

The Delft-based aircraft manufacturer Maeve Aerospace is ready to bring change to the aviation sector. Their new hybrid-electric aircraft technology, which combines traditional fuel engines with electric propulsion, significantly reduces emissions and has the potential to inspire the next generation of aircraft builders.

We speak with Jan Willem Heinen, CEO, and Erwin Koenraads, CFO of Maeve, about their ambitious plan to establish a completely independent flight programme—a rare achievement in Dutch (aviation) history. This comes at a time when the sector faces mounting pressure to find innovative solutions that contribute to global climate targets. Jan Willem co-founded Maeve in 2021, and Erwin joined as CFO in 2022 to help set their sights on the skies. In 2022, Maeve took flight: the company raised €3.6 million from angel investors.

In the Aerospace Delta, the leading South Holland cluster and umbrella name for a sector hosting 80% of all Dutch aviation activities, they were initially met with some scepticism among industry peers. The idea of building a fully electrically powered aircraft was seen as too ambitious and financially risky, given the high costs and technical challenges. Yet Maeve held firmly to its dream. “We returned to our roots: we wanted to contribute to more sustainable aviation and make a real impact. I can confidently say that every Maeve employee feels the same way.”

De volgende generatie hybride elektrische vliegtuigen van Maeve: M80

The M80 from Maeve combines the efficiency of a turboprop with the speed of a jet, delivering up to 40% lower emissions than comparable aircraft.

A Challenging Market: Entering the Aviation Industry

Entering the aviation industry is no easy task. The costs are high, and the technical complexity is immense. Globally, only a few major players hold a strong grip on the market. Nevertheless, Maeve is demonstrating that it is possible for a startup to establish a serious aircraft programme. “Successful aviation programmes usually come from major players like Airbus, Boeing, and Embraer,” Erwin explains. “Development costs run into billions and require thousands of employees; at the same time, this just gives you a sense of the enormous potential it holds.”

From Fully Electric to Hybrid-Electric

What steps were necessary to reach this point? At the end of 2023, Maeve decided to shift its course towards a hybrid-electric aircraft. This decision arose from discussions with investors and a reassessment of technological possibilities. Jan Willem and his team wanted to refocus on regional aviation. “A fully electric aircraft is such a small niche within aviation that it has very limited chances of success,” says Erwin. “You won’t find investors for it because the costs are too high. A hybrid-electric aircraft, however, can serve a much broader market. With a hybrid aircraft, we can execute many more flights with lower emissions, rather than being confined to a small number of fully emissions-free flights.” Maeve is targeting the regional aviation market with their aircraft, offering a capacity of 76 to 100 seats and a range of 2,300 kilometres.

Their latest project, the M80, combines the efficiency of a turboprop with the speed of a jet, delivering up to 40% lower emissions than comparable aircraft. Whereas traditional regional aircraft often rely solely on fuel engines, the M80 uses an innovative hybrid propulsion system that utilises both fuel and electricity. This not only reduces emissions but also allows for more economical and quieter flights. The design thus offers an attractive solution for airlines looking to reduce their ecological footprint without compromising on performance or operational flexibility. Since July 2024, Maeve has been collaborating with aircraft engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney Canada, with Maeve responsible for aircraft integration and Pratt & Whitney handling propulsion. The company also expects to announce additional collaborations with major industry players soon.

“When we started, we were somewhat inexperienced as newcomers from the e-mobility sector.”

– Erwin Koenraads, CFO Maeve Aerospace

Nowhere in Europe are there as many sustainable aviation initiatives as in the Aerospace Delta, the collective name under which all aerospace activities in South Holland are promoted. From various startups with entirely new aircraft concepts to the development of engines powered by electric (Vaeridion, Elysian, Electron), hydrogen (Conscious), biofuel, or hybrid (Maeve) propulsion, as well as the establishment of hydrogen and sustainable fuel plants in the Port of Rotterdam.

The Important Role of Team and Partners

“When we started, we were somewhat inexperienced as newcomers from the e-mobility sector,” Erwin says with a laugh. “But everything changed with the arrival of our CTO, Martin Nüsseler, in 2023.” Martin brought structure to the design and development of the M80, improved technical processes, and his experience with major aviation programmes proved invaluable. “Martin has previously led programmes like the Airbus A350 and A400M. His expertise was a real game-changer.”

At an early stage, InnovationQuarter and the European Innovation Council invested in the startup. Erwin and Jan Willem were extremely pleased with the support: “These organisations invest their money after thorough research, completing due diligence, and checking all the boxes,” says Erwin. “This gave us credibility—the sense that we had reached a new level. Don’t get me wrong, in aviation, this is still just the beginning. You’re not suddenly ten steps ahead, but rather half a step forward, and that half-step was exactly what helped us attract other parties and convince them of our progress.”

“The wonderful thing about Maeve is that everyone is involved because of the same mission: we want to make aviation more sustainable. That’s our shared motivation.”

— Erwin Koenraads, CFO Maeve Aerospace

The Strong Aviation Sector in South Holland

“The aviation sector in South Holland is strong and extends beyond the provincial borders,” says Jan Willem. In this region, you find a combination of top-level talent, leading knowledge institutions like TU Delft, and a robust network of innovative companies. Moreover, facilities like Rotterdam The Hague Innovation Airport (RHIA) provide the ideal testing environment where new technologies can be developed and validated. “Thanks to these facilities and collaborations, we’ve been able to make real progress. We often joke that if South Holland succeeds in bringing multiple aircraft programmes to market, we could put the region on the map as the Silicon Valley of aviation—a perfect launchpad for startups looking to innovate in aviation.”

De CEO van Maeve

Jan Willem Heinen is CEO of Maeve: “The aviation sector in South Holland is strong and extends beyond the provincial borders.”

“At the same time, the connection with Munich forms an essential link in the development of our ecosystem,” says Erwin. “Munich is a true hub for the established aviation industry, the former home of Airbus, with a well-rooted infrastructure that operates at scale.” This makes the collaboration with Munich particularly valuable for Maeve, as we can benefit from the established expertise and scaling opportunities available there.

When you’re active in a region, you become part of a network. You meet the right people, attend networking events, and get introductions. “That dynamic works the same everywhere,” says Erwin. “But the impact of InnovationQuarter in South Holland is far greater than in Bavaria, because there are far fewer organisations involved here and fewer layers within those networks. That makes a real, tangible difference.”

Collaboration in Aerospace Delta

Aerospace Delta is a rapidly growing cluster of 260 companies and knowledge institutions and 9,000 employees in the aerospace, aviation, and drone sectors. The region brings together a wide range of parties: from innovative engineering companies to large manufacturers and suppliers. Academic institutions such as TU Delft, which ranks among the top three worldwide with its Faculty of Aerospace EngineeringErasmus University, and Leiden University contribute their expertise in technology, economics, and law. In addition, there are key research institutes like ESA-ESTECTNO, and SRON, as well as incubators like YES!Delft and the Aerospace Innovation Hub, which help startups to grow. The collaboration among all these parties, supported by the province of South Holland and local governments, ensures that the aerospace cluster continues to strengthen, for example through the development of specialised test labs and innovation hubs.

Maeve plans to open a new office in the centre of Delft soon, with space for 50 employees. Erwin continues: “In South Holland, certain elements that you find in other aerospace clusters are missing, such as tier-1 suppliers and established aircraft manufacturers. This makes our role even more important, as Maeve can help fill part of that missing link. This also gives all those TU Delft engineering graduates a significant player in the region. It could even mean that highly qualified personnel from abroad return to South Holland.”

Interested in all aerospace hotspots?

Aerospace Delta is committed to promoting cross-sectoral and national collaboration in the aerospace industry. Through dedicated programs, they aim to strengthen ties between startups, corporates, and research institutions, driving innovation forward.

A key player in this mission is the Aerospace Innovation Hub (AIH) at TU Delft, a dynamic community of startups, academics, and industry professionals. The AIH supports early-stage companies by providing access to a vast aerospace network, resources, and talent. With a startup success rate of 80% over the past five years, the hub has become a vital platform for growth. Companies like Airbus, Embraer, and scale-ups such as Qlayers and Dawn Aerospace are active within this ecosystem.

On October 8th, AIH will host its annual DEMOday, showcasing the latest aerospace innovations. Attendees can enjoy startup pitches, speed networking, and an exhibition of 24 entrepreneurial entities. Keynote speakers include Maaike Zwart from the Municipality of Delft and Robert van Tilborg from Airbus Defence and Space.

Program Overview for October 8th:

12:30 – 13:30
Lunch Lecture – Pitches from startups Vaeridion, Fiducial, Zepp.solutions, Emergent Swarms, Ubotica, Parapy, and Team Tumbleweed (lunch included, registration required).

14:00 – 16:00
Rapid Speed Dates – Quick networking opportunities (on-site registration available).

14:00 – 16:30
Innovation Floor – Exhibition of 24 entrepreneurial entities in the central hall of TU Delft Aerospace Engineering.

16:30 – 17:00
Keynotes – By Maaike Zwart (Alderman for Sustainability, Work & Income, Economics, Municipality of Delft) and Robert van Tilborg (Vice President, Future Air Power Business, Airbus Defence and Space).

17:00 – 18:30
Networking Drinks – Final opportunity to connect with industry leaders and innovators (registration required).

This event offers a prime opportunity for networking and exploring potential collaborations.

Register here
drone boven de haven

Uniting Industry Leaders to Advance Drone and Aerospace Innovation, Setting New Standards Globally

In a landmark move, DronePort Rotterdam is thrilled to announce a series of strategic developments that firmly cement its position as a leader in the realisation of a fully integrated innovative mobility ecosystem spanning ports, airports, urban, and regional landscapes.

A Global Event: U-space Revolution Event in Rotterdam

Beginning with the inaugural launch of the ‘U-Space Revolution in Rotterdam’ on 5 March 2024, co-organised with the Port of Rotterdam and attracting 200 participants from 14 countries, this unique event marks the beginning of a new era in autonomous and uncrewed intelligent systems, such as drones. The conference serves as a platform to highlight the rising interest in the emerging potential of this technology and its expected impact on society. Additionally, it acts as a launching pad for DronePort Rotterdam’s strategic alliances.

Aerospace Delta Launch: Forging the Future of Autonomous and Uncrewed Intelligent Systems

At the core of this strategic vision is the Aerospace Delta initiative, stemming from the collective ambition of DronePort Rotterdam and its premier regional partners, including Unmanned Valley, the Aerospace Innovation Hub @TU Delft, InnovationQuarter, and STC (Scheepvaart en Transport College), with support from the City of Rotterdam and the Province of Zuid-Holland. With a newly formed coalition of 100 out of 260 entities under the Aerospace Delta umbrella, there is a unified commitment to transforming the region, and indeed the Netherlands, into a global hub for autonomous and uncrewed intelligent systems. This coalition focuses on innovation and industry transformation through education, testing, training, social entrepreneurship, investments, regulations, policies, and actively applying these initiatives operationally for broader impact.

Strategic Partnerships: Strengthening the Ecosystem Through Educational Innovation

In partnership with STC – the worldwide operating educational and research institution for the shipping, logistics, transport, and process industries – DronePort Rotterdam is collaborating on developing an extensive drone curriculum. This curriculum, covering the entire drone ecosystem, is tailored for both regular and professional education levels. It encompasses a range of drone-related educational content, from regulatory frameworks and safety protocols to practical applications, technological innovations, and policy implications. Additionally, these resources are being developed into online formats to cater to a broad audience, including students, professionals, and newcomers, ensuring everyone can access the information they need to engage with drone technology safely and effectively.

For the second half of this year, STC and DronePort Rotterdam are hosting the ‘Smart Vision Experience: Autonomous and Uncrewed Intelligent Systems’. The event serves to educate and inspire the current and next generations of industry leaders and innovators, showcasing the latest advancements in drone technology and autonomous and uncrewed intelligent systems.

In partnership with Drone Fusion – the international platform for drone researchers and schools innovating for a circular tomorrow – Saxion University of Applied Sciences and DronePort Rotterdam are developing a prime and future-proof platform to drive innovation, research, business, and excellence in the field for autonomous and uncrewed intelligent systems.

This partnership believes in the potential of drone technology to facilitate Europe’s digital, sustainable, and societal transitions, offering benefits for business and society to help build a resilient future. By connecting bright minds, makers, and entrepreneurs in the industry, our partnership is set to catalyse technological progress and market growth, setting new standards for the adoption and integration of autonomous and uncrewed systems worldwide. Ultimately, this partnership seeks to contribute to societal advancement and economic growth while skilling future generations and reskilling the current ones.

drone boven de haven

image: INSPIR8ION

A Collaborative Blueprint for Regional Advancement

The DronePort Rotterdam organisation and its regional collaboration with partners under the Aerospace Delta banner reflect our collective vision and dedication to the future of the Zuid-Holland region and beyond. Uniting pioneers across business, education, and government, we are establishing a strong foundation for a future enriched by autonomous and uncrewed intelligent systems, essential to our daily lives, economic growth, and community wellbeing. We encourage you to further explore this initiative and collective vision.

The number of active satellites in low Earth orbit has doubled in the last two years. With this many satellites in space, the risk of collisions needs to be addressed. Dawn Aerospace has partnered with SPHERICAL and UARX Space are undertaking work to de-risk technologies for smart-propulsions systems, used for de-orbiting satellites and the end of their lifetime.

 Jeroen Wink, CRO of Dawn Aerospace comments:

“We believe in sustainable space access for all and responsive propulsion systems are key to preventing new space debris.  Partnering with UARX and SPHERICAL on this early-stage R&D will speed up the development of this critical technology.”

The partnership will see each company develop technology in their areas of expertise.

Dawn is aiming to mitigate fuel sloshing through the development of super critical storage in its propulsion systems. This is a unique feature of the nitrous oxide-based propellant choice Dawn utilizes. SPHERICAL will design a power management system that will work in the event of satellite failure.  UARX will work on a control algorithm that can calculate a clear path to de-orbit the satellite.

UARX Co-founder and CEO Yanina Hallak emphasized,

“As we establish a space ecosystem in LEO and beyond, mitigating further debris generation will be critical.”

The collaboration was announced at the Space Tech Expo in Bremen, in the presence of the regional Minister of Economic Affairs and Innovation of Zuid-Holland, Meindert Stolk.

The Province of Zuid-Holland is one of the founders and shareholders of regional economic development agency InnovationQuarter, which has invested in both Dawn and SPHERICAL through their InnovationQuarter Capital and UNIIQ funds.

“I am very proud that these two rising stars from our space ecosystem have found each other. By combining their strengths, Dawn and SPHERICAL are not just building a successful partnership but are also contributing to the growth and prosperity of our Aerospace Delta region,”

said Meindert Stolk.

SPHERICAL CCO Bastiaan Bom added:

“Being part of the Dutch space ecosystem was a great advantage in the early stage of our company. We are thrilled to be working with our first customer from the province of Zuid-Holland”.

 

About Dawn Aerospace:

Dawn Aerospace is building a sustainable space transportation network. They are the leading provider of nitrous-based green propulsion systems in the world with 69 thrusters in orbit on 14 satellites. They’re also developing a spaceplane, a launch vehicle that combines the performance of a rocket with the reusability and fleet economics of an aircraft.

About UARX:

UARX Space is a Spanish company providing in-space logistics, rideshare, and dedicated launch services for small satellites from LEO to deep space. UARX space recently opened its 1200m2 satellite integration facility, for the production of their OSSIE OTV, which is launching in June 2025 from Cape Canaveral. OSSIE stands for Orbit Solutions to Simplify Injection and Exploration. As part of the Aerospace Pole of Galicia UARX is bringing the aerospace sector to new regions.

About SPHERICAL:

SPHERICAL designs dedicated semiconductors and uses them for electronic subsystems for satellites. By designing semiconductors faster and more efficiently, we can make better systems that are more reliable, easier to control with software, and perform better than competitors.

 

Source: Dawn Aerospace

Spherical Systems, gevestigd in het Space Business Innovation Center in Noordwijk haalt een investering op van in totaal bijna € 1 miljoen voor de ontwikkeling van een eigen chip die speciaal is ontworpen voor de extreme omstandigheden in de ruimte. Naast UNIIQ investeren drie business angels, durfkapitaalinvesteerders Antler en Graduate Entrepreneur Fund, de Rabobank en hebben ze een Eurostars-subsidie ontvangen. De investering werd bekendgemaakt door Tweede Kamerlid Pim van Strien in Noordwijk.

Spherical Systems

Nieuwe chip voor extreme omstandigheden ruimte

De omstandigheden in de ruimte zijn uiterst extreem, terwijl onderhoud vrijwel onmogelijk is. Het is niet zomaar mogelijk om een monteur de ruimte in te sturen. Het is dus belangrijk dat alles wat gelanceerd wordt, ook blijft werken. Daarom is de productie van extreem betrouwbare onderdelen altijd heel belangrijk geweest. Het probleem is dat deze onderdelen ook heel erg duur zijn, en het business model sinds de space race in de jaren ’60 niet meer is veranderd.

Sinds de opkomst van de commerciële ruimtevaart staat de prijs van alles wat er gelanceerd wordt onder toenemende druk. De klassieke ruimtevaart chips zijn veel te duur, waardoor men inferieure chips gebruikt met de hoop dat deze het net lang genoeg volhouden. Met een slimme architectuur en een moderne ontwerpvisie maakt Spherical Systems chips die daadwerkelijk geschikt zijn voor de ruimte, terwijl deze vele malen goedkoper zijn dan oude space chips. Door deze chips te verwerken in hun eigen systemen, ontwikkelt Spherical Systems systemen voor in de ruimte die vele malen betrouwbaarder zijn voor een vergelijkbare prijs.

Volgende stappen voor Spherical Systems

Spherical Systems heeft nu in totaal bijna € 1 miljoen aan financiering opgehaald. Naast VroegeFaseFinanciering Powered by UNIIQ heeft het ook een investering van drie business angels, durfkapitaalinvesteerders Antler en Graduate Entrepreneur Fund, een lening van de Rabobank en een Eurostars-subsidie ontvangen. Met deze investering kan het bedrijf de eerste eigen chips produceren die speciaal zijn ontworpen voor de extreme omstandigheden in de ruimte. Door deze eigengemaakte chips te integreren in hun systemen, maakt Spherical Systems betrouwbaardere producten voor in de ruimtevaart.

Thomas Parry CEO en oprichter Spherical Systems:

“De vandaag aangekondigde financiering stelt ons in staat om het initiële traject van onze productontwikkeling en teamgroei volledig te financieren. Dit stelt ons in staat om op het wereldtoneel de technische en commerciële relevantie van Spherical te demonstreren. We zijn dankbaar voor de steun van UNIIQ en andere investeerders terwijl we onze baanbrekende aanpak in de industrie opbouwen. We kijken ernaar uit om voort te bouwen op de sterke punten van de regio Zuid-Holland om de strategische mogelijkheden binnen de ruimte- en halfgeleiderindustrieën in de komende tien jaar uit te breiden.”

Spherical Systems

Met deze investeringen kan het bedrijf de eerste iteraties van de chips produceren en de eerste systemen ontwikkelen, om zo toe te werken naar een eerste lancering. Daarnaast kunnen ze hiermee hun eigen chip design tool verder ontwikkelen, om zo steeds meer verschillende chips te blijven maken voor de markt. Het bedrijf verwacht te gaan groeien van 2 naar 6 FTE.

Proof-of-conceptfonds UNIIQ ziet Spherical Systems als een innovatieve toevoeging aan het aerospace cluster in Zuid-Holland. Jasper Geselschap, Fondsmanager van UNIIQ:

“De diepgaande vaardigheden van de founders Thomas Parry en Bastiaan Bom in combinatie met de sterke onderlinge synergie maken een ijzersterk team om SPHERICAL naar de volgende fase te brengen.”

 

Source: InnovationQuarter

In de ruimtevaart moeten onderdelen extreme omstandigheden kunnen doorstaan. Men kan immers niet even langs om onderhoud te plegen. Met dit in het achterhoofd werken ingenieurs op het scherpst van de snede om het meeste uit de materialen te halen. Met een investering van € 350.000 vanuit VroegeFaseFinanciering powered by UNIIQ kan Arceon haar nieuwe hittebestendige materialen verder ontwikkelen en op de markt brengen, waardoor ingenieurs weer verder kunnen innoveren. De investering is bekendgemaakt door Martijn Leinweber, COO & Community Manager van SBIC Noordwijk.

De Delftse startup Arceon ontwikkelt speciale composieten die tegen extreem hoge temperaturen bestand zijn (>1500 °C). Deze composieten, met o.a. carbon erin verwerkt, zijn ook nog eens veel lichter dan de huidige gebruikte alternatieven, die uit speciale metalen bestaan. De zogenaamde Ceramic Matrix Composites van Arceon kunnen nu dus al goed gebruikt worden in o.a. straalmotoren van satellieten. In de toekomst worden ook toepassingen als hitteschilden voor ruimtevaartuigen, die door de dampkring terug naar aarde komen, mogelijk.

Arceon maakt het produceren van deze CMC’s daarnaast ook nog eens op schaal mogelijk met een aantal innovaties in het productieproces. Aan het roer van Arceon staan founders Rahul Shirke en Rahul Sharma, die specialistische kennis hebben van dit type materialen in de spacesector. Het team wordt versterkt  door de jarenlange ervaring van co-founder Bernhard Heidenreich. Het bedrijf bezit hierdoor al een patent op het in-situ combineren van kleinere subsegmenten van de technologie. Hierdoor kunnen met veel groter gemak, en zonder additionele proces fouten, complexe vormen gemaakt worden door kleinere te combineren. Dit verlaagt niet alleen de doorlooptijd significant, maar maakt ook de kwaliteit beter te beheren. Hierdoor hebben ingenieurs vele malen meer vrijheid in hun ontwerpen.

Met de UNIIQ-investering gaat Arceon een aantal initiële producten op de markt zetten in samenwerking met een aantal pilot- en launchingklanten. Daarnaast gaat het bedrijf toepassingen in andere markten onderzoeken, het team uitbreiden met 3 FTE en benodigde apparatuur in-house halen.

Source: InnovationQuarter