In the evolving landscape of sustainable innovation, European startups seem to be at the forefront of combating climate change through groundbreaking products. Some of these have introduced revolutionary items, such as bubble wrap alternatives utilising sustainable wooden springs, providing eco-friendly packaging solutions.
Others have ventured into creating the world’s first waterproof solid wood sanitaryware, redefining traditional notions of bathroom fixtures. Now, in a significant leap towards reshaping the construction landscape in Europe, Spanish bio-composite technology startup Strong by Form which designs timber-based cladding material to replace steel and concrete has successfully secured $5.2 million in an oversubscribed seed funding round.
The round was oversubscribed by more than 25% and was led by CMPC Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of CMPC, one of the world’s largest pulp and paper producers. Alongside CMPC Ventures, the Series seed included investment from CiRi Ventures, MAIF Avenir Ventures, Teampact Ventures, Climate Insiders, Core Angels, Savia Ventures, Family Offices, and corporate venture capitals Symbia VC, FINSA, and VX Ventures.
The Madrid-based startup will use the investment to double in size and build an industrial manufacturing facility. They will also use the funding to bring in new hires, and focus on strengthening its R&D and product development capabilities while a full manufacturing team will also be brought on board.
Founded in 2018, the company is currently focused on construction and is already developing a project with Deutsche Bahn while it explores other markets thanks to a close relationship with the BMW Group.
How will the company use the funds?
The Madrid-based startup will use the investment to double in size and build an industrial manufacturing facility. They will also use the funding to bring in new hires, and focus on strengthening its R&D and product development capabilities while a full manufacturing team will also be brought on board.
Founded in 2018, the company is currently focused on construction and is already developing a project with Deutsche Bahn while it explores other markets thanks to a close relationship with the BMW Group.
What is WoodFlow Technology?
WoodFlow Technology is a fusion of nature and technology, which Strong by Form has unveiled. It produces a material with the remarkable ability to adapt to diverse forms. This innovative solution paves the way for cladding applications, seamlessly blending the essence of nature with architectural brilliance.
According to the company, WoodFlow Technology’s extends beyond aesthetics, and offers strength and versatility that empowers the construction of taller and more expansive timber structures.
Beyond construction, WoodFlow Technology’s weight-to-strength ratio and freeform capabilities hold immense promise for various industries, including the automotive sector.
Who are the minds behind Strong by Form
Founded by Daniel (COO), Jorge (CTO), and Andres Mitnik (CEO), Strong by Form has a team of nine passionate individuals dedicated to creating a more sustainable world through wood-based construction technologies.
Jorge, the creative mind behind WoodFlow, brings his architectural and engineering expertise to the forefront, while Daniel is a tech entrepreneur and ensures that Jorge’s vision can be translated into scalable industrial production. Andres oversees the company’s strategic direction, funding, and growth, leveraging my background in economics and business development.
The team’s diversity extends beyond their professional backgrounds since they are a mix of mechanical engineers, software engineers, digital fabricators, and architects, each bringing their unique skills and perspectives to the table.
When asked about their ultimate goal, they said it was to establish WoodFlow as a cornerstone of sustainable construction and automotive manufacturing, reducing reliance on environmentally harmful materials and paving the way for a greener future.
