Univity, a French startup specializing in satellite-based telecommunications, has raised €27 million in funding to deploy a constellation of low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites designed to serve telecom operators. The round was led by investors including Bpifrance, with participation from existing backers.
The company plans to use the funds to accelerate the development and launch of its satellite network, which aims to provide connectivity solutions for mobile network operators (MNOs) in underserved or remote areas. Univity’s technology focuses on integrating satellite capacity directly into existing telecom infrastructure, enabling operators to extend coverage without building new ground stations.
The constellation will consist of several dozen small satellites, with the first launches expected within the next two years. Univity’s approach differs from other satellite internet projects by targeting B2B partnerships with telecom operators rather than direct-to-consumer services. The startup claims its system can reduce latency and improve bandwidth efficiency compared to traditional geostationary satellites.
The €27 million round also includes support from the French government’s “France 2030” investment plan, which prioritizes space and digital infrastructure. Univity’s CEO emphasized that the funding will allow the company to scale its engineering team and finalize satellite manufacturing contracts.
This investment reflects growing interest in hybrid terrestrial-satellite networks, as operators seek to bridge the digital divide and meet 5G coverage requirements. Univity faces competition from larger players like Starlink and OneWeb, but its focus on operator partnerships and local integration may offer a differentiated value proposition.