Villari, a Delft-based company specializing in crack detection sensors, has raised €4 million in funding to accelerate its expansion into European and global markets. This development highlights an increasing focus on structural safety technologies in industries reliant on steel assets. The funding is led by venture capital firm FORWARD.one and regional economic development agency InnovationQuarter Capital, alongside contributions from two key individuals involved with Villari. The latest funding builds on the company’s existing financial support and aims to meet growing demand for its technology both locally and internationally.
Who are the key investors?
FORWARD.one, a Dutch venture capital firm with €200M under management, focuses on deep tech startups in sectors like robotics, semiconductors, and sensors. Its involvement signals interest in industrial hardware innovations. InnovationQuarter Capital, representing the Zuid-Holland region, plays a significant role in fostering regional economic development. These investors have previously supported Villari during its earlier seed round, ensuring consistent backing for its growth trajectory. Villari CEO Olivier Baas expressed optimism, stating:
“The timing of this additional funding is perfect and enables us to quickly roll out our sensors across Europe as we take the first steps toward global expansion.”
How does Villari’s technology work?
Founded in 2019, Villari designs and produces sensor solutions that detect microscopic cracks in steel structures. These sensors provide real-time, 24/7 monitoring, enabling operators to address issues before they escalate into costly or hazardous problems. The technology has been deployed on assets such as bridges and industrial cranes, offering improved operational efficiency by reducing downtime and extending the lifespan of these structures. The patented system is already installed in projects managed by the Dutch government and several European steel manufacturers and port operators.
Villari has steadily expanded its footprint over the years, driven by earlier backing from Delft Enterprises, angel investor David Cerda Salzmann, and UNIIQ’s proof-of-concept fund. Furthermore, certifications like the DNV seal of approval in 2022 have reinforced the reliability and quality of its offerings. The company has reportedly increased customer adoption, especially within the Benelux region, integrating sensors into steel manufacturing, harbor installations, and infrastructure.
In earlier reports, Villari’s focus was primarily regional, targeting specific infrastructure projects within the Netherlands. With this latest funding, however, the company is shifting gears toward broader European and global expansion. This represents a significant leap from its earlier phase of securing certifications and initial installations to scaling its operations internationally, reflecting both confidence from investors and growing market demand.
Villari’s growth underscores a larger trend in the industrial sector, where predictive maintenance technologies are gaining traction. By providing accurate data on structural wear and tear, companies like Villari contribute to cost efficiency and improved safety standards. As infrastructure and industrial assets age globally, such technologies are expected to become increasingly relevant across sectors like transport, manufacturing, and energy. Those interested in adopting similar technology should consider the scalability, reliability certifications, and industry-specific applications of such systems when evaluating solutions.
