Belgian deeptech startup nxgsat, a spin-out from Cactus Software developing next-generation 5G satellite communication systems, has raised €1.2 million in seed funding to accelerate the rollout of its interoperable satellite connectivity platform.
The round was led by PMV and imec.istart Future Fund, two of Belgium’s leading innovation investors. The capital will be used to expand nxgsat’s technical and commercial teams, accelerate product development, and advance the market launch of its flagship 5G satellite modem — a breakthrough solution enabling seamless interoperability between terrestrial and multi-orbit satellite networks.
“This funding marks a pivotal step in our journey,” said Alain Rolle, Founder and CEO/CTO of nxgsat. “With the backing of PMV and imec.istart Future Fund, we can now engage in larger-scale programs and accelerate the path toward truly interoperable, high-performance satellite connectivity.”
Bridging the Gap Between Earth and Orbit
Founded in 2024, nxgsat is reimagining satellite communications for the 5G era. Its software-defined satellite modem allows users to move effortlessly between land-based, LEO, and MEO networks — all through open 3GPP standards and standard hardware.
In practice, this means faster, more affordable, and more reliable connectivity for businesses and institutions that rely on robust communications — from telecom operators and governments to emergency services and maritime industries.
“Imagine if your phone only worked with one carrier — that’s the reality of most satellite systems today,” explained Rolle. “Our goal is to break down those barriers and give users the freedom to always connect to the best available network, anywhere on Earth.”
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A European Edge in Satellite Innovation
Led by satellite industry veterans Alain Rolle (formerly Newtec, All.Space) and Frederik Simoens (formerly Newtec, iDirect), nxgsat combines deep expertise in telecom and aerospace engineering.
The company is already collaborating with European space agencies, including ESA, and aims to play a role in strategic initiatives such as IRIS², the EU’s program for a secure and independent satellite network.
“The nxgsat team unites top-tier expertise from the satellite and telecom sectors,” said Krist Vandenberk, Managing Partner at imec.istart Future Fund. “By successfully adapting 5G standards for space, they’re positioning Europe at the forefront of global connectivity — creating flexible, secure, and interoperable systems for the future.”
About nxgsat
nxgsat is a Belgian deeptech startup developing software-defined 5G satellite modems that bridge terrestrial and satellite networks. Founded in 2024 as a spin-out from Cactus Software, the company enables fast, affordable, and flexible satellite connectivity across industries. With backing from PMV and imec.istart Future Fund, nxgsat is pioneering the next generation of multi-orbit, interoperable communications for a connected planet.
