Interview With Tiago Rebelo, Co-Founder and CEO of Connected
Eqvista welcomes you to another episode of the Founder Spotlight series! We are introducing Tiago Rebelo, the Co-Founder and CEO of Connected, a Portuguese startup dedicated to delivering universal, standardized, and affordable narrowband connectivity from space using Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) technology. So, join us now, and let’s hear Tiago’s awe-inspiring story about how Connected is paving the way for a brighter and more connected future.
Can you provide an overview of Connected and its mission to provide accessible connectivity for everyone, everywhere?
Connected is dedicated to democratizing connectivity worldwide. Our mission revolves around ensuring that every individual and business, regardless of location, can access reliable and affordable 5G Narrow-Band Internet-of-Things (NB-IoT) connectivity from space. We achieve this by developing innovative payload systems for integration into third-party satellites in Low Earth Orbit. Through seamless integration with Earth Observation (EO) satellites, our technology enables the fusion of EO data and in-situ data via IoT connectivity, revolutionizing how data is collected and utilized for various applications.
How does Connected differentiate itself from other connectivity solutions, and what unique value does it offer to users and businesses?
Connected sets itself apart from other connectivity solutions through its focus on innovation, accessibility, and affordability. Unlike traditional approaches, Connected leverages space-based technology to provide universal access to reliable IoT connectivity. Our unique value lies in our ability to integrate proprietary technology into third-party satellites, facilitating the process of accessing connectivity for users and businesses worldwide. By offering standardized and cost-effective 5G NB-IoT connectivity from space, Connected ensures that even remote or underserved areas can benefit from standard, seamless connectivity, empowering individuals and businesses to thrive in the digital age.
Can you explain how Connected leverages IoT (Internet of Things) technology to improve citizens’ quality of life and bridge the digital divide?
The network currently in development will seamlessly integrate space nodes and ground terminals, offering connectivity services for a wide range of applications. These include personal applications such as emergency support in remote areas, as well as IoT applications that facilitate climate transition, such as fire prevention and wildlife protection. Additionally, the network will also support digital transformation efforts in sectors like precision agriculture, aquaculture, territorial surveillance, and defense, among others.
What key challenges have you faced in developing Connected, and how have you addressed them?
In developing Connected, we’ve encountered several key challenges that we’ve worked diligently to address. One significant challenge has been the complexity of integrating our technology into third-party satellites. This process requires careful coordination and collaboration with satellite providers and operators to ensure seamless compatibility and optimal performance. Additionally, the development of software components, particularly those required for implementing 5G NB-IoT, has presented technical hurdles that we’ve been actively working to overcome. Another challenge has been navigating the regulatory landscape surrounding space-based connectivity.
To address these challenges, we’ve adopted a multi-faceted approach. We’ve invested in research and development to enhance our technology and streamline integration processes. Additionally, we’ve engaged in active dialogue with regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders to ensure compliance and foster a supportive regulatory environment. Moreover, we’ve optimized our operations and supply chain to improve cost-efficiency and scalability. Overall, while developing Connected has presented its share of challenges, we’ve remained committed to overcoming them through innovation,collaboration, and a steadfast dedication to our mission of providing accessible connectivity for everyone, everywhere.
How does Connected ensure affordability while maintaining the quality and reliability of its connectivity services?
Connected ensures affordability while maintaining the quality and reliability of its connectivity services through a multifaceted approach. Our system is designed to provide universal, standardized, and cost-effective NB-IoT connectivity from space. By integrating with Earth Observation (EO) satellites, we enable the seamless integration of complementary EO data and In-Situ measurements enabled by IoT connectivity.
By integrating our payload system, they can differentiate themselves in the market and position themselves as leaders in providing innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of their customers.
In addition to immediate benefits, Connected has a long-term vision of building a heterogeneous and opportunistic hosted payload satellite constellation. This constellation will provide a comprehensive non-terrestrial network, offering 5G NB IoT roaming solutions to Mobile Network Operators worldwide. Through strategic partnerships, continuous innovation, and a focus on delivering tangible value to our partners and customers, we are committed to achieving this vision and ensuring that our connectivity solutions remain both affordable and reliable.
What strategies does Connected employ to expand its reach and accessibility to underserved communities and regions with limited connectivity infrastructure?
Connected employs a comprehensive strategy to extend connectivity to underserved communities, leveraging our space infrastructure and compatibility with standard user equipment. By utilizing our space-based assets, we overcome geographical barriers and deliver connectivity to remote regions where traditional infrastructure is lacking. Our compatibility with standard user equipment ensures accessibility for individuals and businesses, facilitating seamless integration into existing systems. Through this approach, we aim to bridge the digital divide and empower underserved regions with the transformative benefits of connectivity, fostering social and economic development.
How does Connected prioritize privacy and security in its connectivity solutions, especially considering the sensitive nature of IoT data?
Connected prioritizes privacy and security in its connectivity solutions by adhering to standard protocols such as encryption for data protection, authentication, and access control. We aim to ensure compliance with existing regulations, while following standard network protocols akin to those found on ground networks. Continuous monitoring and threat detection are to be employed to safeguard against potential risks. Additionally, our development practices follow secure coding standards, guaranteeing the integrity and confidentiality of IoT data.
Congrats on the funding. Can you share insights into how Connected will utilize this funding to further develop its IoT-based business models?
With the recent €2M funding round announced last February, the largest pre-seed ever raised by a Portuguese-based space startup, Connected is poised for significant growth and development. Co-led by FundBox, Shilling VC, and Iberis Capital, along with contributions from Amena Ventures, angel investor Keith Willey, and Octopus Ventures, we are excited to accelerate the expansion of our team and propel the development of our proprietary technology. Our immediate focus is on expanding our team from 12 to nearly 20 full-time employees by the end of the year, with a particular emphasis on recruiting skilled professionals such as FPGA programmers and network engineers. Additionally, the funding will support research and development efforts, infrastructure expansion, and strategic partnerships, all aimed at advancing our IoT-based business models and achieving key milestones in our journey to revolutionize connectivity from space.
Given the recent Pre Seed funding round, how do you plan to manage Connected’s cap table structure?
Given the recent Pre Seed funding round, Connected plans to strategically manage its cap table structure to ensure alignment with our long-term growth objectives. We will work closely with our investors to maintain transparency and clear communication regarding equity ownership and voting rights. Additionally, we will consider factors such as dilution, valuation, and potential future funding rounds to optimize the structure for both existing and future stakeholders. Our aim is to maintain a balanced and equitable cap table that supports the company’s growth trajectory while maximizing value for all parties involved.
Looking ahead, what do you see as the future of Connected, and how does Connected plan to stay at the forefront in this rapidly evolving landscape?
Looking ahead, Connected aims to lead the way in providing universal, affordable connectivity from space. We’ll focus on continuous innovation, strategic partnerships, customer-centric solutions, regulatory compliance, and talent development to stay at the forefront of this rapidly evolving landscape.
