Spin-Off Spotlight / STRAYPROTECT / Meet Naoufal Bahlawane, Founder
The Origin and Development of the Technology
What research or technology formed the basis of this spin-off?
Our technology was born from a call for projects by the European Space Agency in 2014. What started as a research concept evolved into space qualified and IP protected innovative coatings. The continuous funding and coordination from ESA and LSA were vital. This adds to valuable support from LIST enabling early financing of a lab-prototype, marketing resources, and my business training at HEC Paris.
The Transition to Market
What made the spin-off ready for launch?
Our development specifically aimed to solve a critical problem: parasitic light in sensitive optical devices. The interest shown by a large systems integrator and by ESA confirmed the relevance of our solution. The launch wasn't triggered by a sudden event but resulted from a maturation process over several years with a clear direction and involving identified early adopters.
What were the biggest challenges in transitioning from research to business?
The change in mindset was the main challenge. As a researcher, you constantly explore new technical questions. As an entrepreneur, you explore ways to make the technology accessible and useful to the market. My business training was essential to make this transition.
The Value Proposition
What problem are you solving? What is your value proposition?
Our technology is filling a gap identified by ESA in the super black coatings market related to the dynamic space industry. The proposed coatings by StrayProtect offer an advanced tradeoff between light absorption, mechanical robustness, compatibility with complex 3D structures, and the ability to create coatings on different types of materials.
Commercial Development
How did you identify the commercial applications and market?
An independent consulting firm “Tekmark group” helped us explore the European space market, initiate contacts, and evaluate the market traction for our coatings. We were able to confirm that our coating properties already meet certain needs, and early adopters are now accompanying us in our development.
What were the first signs of interest?
The funding agency was first to recognize the potential of our technology. A large systems integrator who collaborated with us throughout the development projects is one of our potential early adopters, confirming the attractiveness of our product from the early phases.
Company Structure and Strategy
What is your business model and how has it evolved?
We're still at the very initial stage – the company is created. Our model will begin with a coating service, then evolve to other offerings when we secure the necessary financial resources. We're aiming for operational start by the end of summer or early 2026.
How did you balance technology and business skills?
I am managing the spin-off launch, but operations will require a team. We've already identified partners and collaborators who will join us when the level of uncertainty is sufficiently reduced. They're already involved in our strategic thinking.
Funding and Outlook
What funding have you obtained and are you raising funds?
A couple of options are under investigation, but it's too early to discuss details. Luxembourg Space Agency (LSA) and European Space Agency (ESA) will play a central role in our funding.
What is the next step?
The priority is to secure investment. Then, we'll complete the team with e.g. mechanical engineers and process engineers to start operations. This process is time-consuming and can only begin once the funding is secured.
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More information about STRAYPROTECT: https://strayprotect.com/