Villari Secures €4M to expand smart sensor technology across Europe

Villari, a startup specializing in smart crack-detection sensors for steel infrastructure, has raised €4 million to fuel its expansion plans. The investment, led by FORWARD.one and InnovationQuarter Capital, aims to address the growing demand for automated monitoring solutions among steel asset owners, especially as manual inspections become impractical due to labor shortages.

With 1,500 sensors already installed across eight countries, Villari's technology enhances safety and extends the lifespan of aging infrastructure such as bridges and cranes by providing 24/7 monitoring and crack growth warnings. Freshly validated with certifications and a recent patent, the company is poised to strengthen its market leadership in Europe and take steps toward global expansion. CEO Olivier Baas and investors express confidence in Villari's growth potential, citing the sensor technology's effectiveness and market impact as key factors behind their support.

Technology validation and market response

In 2024, Villari achieved a significant milestone by obtaining crucial certifications, including the coveted DNV mark, which validates their solution's technical feasibility and robustness. The company also secured a patent for its innovative crack-detection technology, strengthening its intellectual property portfolio. Their smart sensors provide continuous 24/7 monitoring and automated warnings for crack growth, addressing a critical need in the infrastructure maintenance sector. This technology has proven particularly valuable for steel infrastructure owners responsible for aging assets, many of which were constructed in the 1960s or earlier.

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Expansion strategy and future outlook

The newly secured funding positions Villari for rapid expansion across European markets while laying the groundwork for global operations. The company has established a strong presence in the Benelux region, working with European steel companies and critical infrastructure projects. "The timing of this additional funding is spot-on," states Olivier Baas, CEO of Villari, highlighting the company's readiness for expansion. This sentiment is echoed by Mathijs Koens, fund manager at InnovationQuarter Capital, who notes, "The rapid growth of Villari confirms our initial belief in their technology."