In 2024, the Seraphim Space Accelerator and Telespazio teamed up on an exciting partnership aimed at promoting SpaceTech development among the next generation of young innovators.
At the core of this partnership was the #T-TeC initiative—an Open Innovation contest run by Telespazio and Leonardo. The goal? To inspire young people to think big about the future of space technology.
Since 2019, #T-TeC has brought together over 480 students from all over the world and created more than 130+ innovative ideas. The initiative works closely with space agencies, research centres, and universities, offering cash prizes and space startup support to help turn these ideas into real-world solutions.
Seraphim provided strategic guidance during the selection process and awarded the #T-TeC winner a place on the Seraphim Space Accelerator – the first accelerator dedicated to Seed-Series A SpaceTech startups. Operating with a ‘VC Mindset’, the 13-week programme provides startups with all the necessary tools to raise their next round of funding. The success of the accelerator programme is evidenced by a 97% survival rate and over $630m + collectively raised by the alumni.
The first Fellow supported by Seraphim was Acquora, a startup founded in Chile. Acquora’s AI-powered platform helps mining companies cut water-related costs by up to 30% while improving efficiency and sustainability. With real-time insights, predictive analytics, and proactive optimisation, it reduces water waste by 20% and unplanned downtime by 40%—all without costly infrastructure changes. The solution applies to mines of all sizes and turns water scarcity into a competitive advantage.
Seraphim supported Acquora in the leadup to the programme, advising the founding team on topics like incorporation and intellectual property.
During the 13-week accelerator programme, Acquora collaborated with startups from the UK, US, Turkey, France, and Saudi Arabia to refine their value proposition and shape their future investment strategy. In addition to participating in group workshops and one-to-one sessions with Seraphim Managing Partners, they also engaged with top venture capitalists and key players in the space industry across the UK and the West Coast.
Ada Guelfand, Founder and CEO of Acquora: ‘Winning the #T-TeC competition marked a pivotal moment for Acquora. The recognition and support we received opened doors we hadn’t imagined possible at such an early stage. Our participation in the Seraphim Space accelerator has been deeply transformative – providing us with invaluable mentorship, industry connections, and the strategic guidance needed to advance our technology and business model. This partnership between Telespazio and Seraphim Space creates a unique springboard for space tech startups, combining innovation recognition with practical business acceleration.’
The 2025 #T-TEC winner was announced at the 17th European Space Conference which took place in Brussels, Belgium on 28th – 29th January. The company will most likely join Mission 16 which will commence this autumn. Stay tuned to learn more!
