NXGSAT raises euro 1.2M to accelerate rollout of interoperable 5G satellite modem

NXGSAT raises euro 1.2M to accelerate rollout of interoperable 5G satellite modem
by Robert Schreiber
Berlin, Germany (SPX) Oct 22, 2025

Belgian spacetech company NXGSAT has secured euro 1.2 million in seed funding to advance development of its high-speed, standards-based 5G satellite modem, designed to bridge terrestrial and multi-orbit connectivity. The round was led by PMV and the imec.istart future fund, with proceeds directed toward product development, team expansion, and market rollout.

Traditional satellite networks remain largely closed systems, where user terminals are restricted to a single operator. NXGSAT's founder and CEO/CTO Alain Rolle drew a comparison: "Imagine that your smartphone would only connect to a single mobile network - that's the current reality of satellite communications. NXGSAT is on a mission to change that."

The company's modem architecture is compliant with the 3GPP 5G NR NTN (New Radio Non-Terrestrial Networks) standard, supporting interoperability across different constellations and ground systems. Entirely software-defined and built on commercial off-the-shelf hardware, it reduces the cost and complexity typically associated with proprietary satellite hardware.

NXGSAT's open-standards approach aligns closely with European connectivity initiatives, including IRIS, the EU's upcoming secure low- and medium-Earth orbit constellation. The company has already secured early contracts from both commercial and government clients within the satellite sector.

"This funding marks a pivotal step in our journey," said Rolle. "With the backing of PMV and imec.istart future fund, we can now scale our programs and strengthen both our technical and commercial capabilities. This will reinforce our ambition to make high-performance interoperable satellite connectivity a reality for tomorrow's users."

Kris Vandenberk, Managing Partner at imec.istart future fund, added: "NXGSAT is led by seasoned industry veterans redefining satellite communications through a software-defined, standards-based approach. Its technology embodies Europe's deep-tech strength and its vision for open, secure, and interoperable connectivity."

Roald Borre, Member of the Executive Committee at PMV, noted: "The international race for global connectivity determines who sets the digital tone. With NXGSAT, PMV is supporting Flemish technology that can make a real impact - and help determine the direction of both European and international satellite communications."