Information on the Target
To Be Srl, an Italian Innovative SME founded in 2016 by Francesco Paolo Russo and Raniero Pani, has successfully completed a capital raise exceeding €1 million. The company specializes in developing cutting-edge value-added lighting solutions using LiFi technology, which allows LED lights to transmit data. With a strong focus on innovation, To Be has established significant partnerships with industry leaders, including Signify and multinational telecom companies.
To Be aims to revolutionize the lighting industry by integrating its advanced technologies into various sectors, such as public institutions and commercial enterprises. By leveraging its expertise in lighting and home automation, the company seeks to enhance functionality in environments like offices and healthcare facilities, thus paving the way for innovative applications of light as an enabling infrastructure.
Industry Overview in Italy
The lighting industry in Italy exhibits a strong potential for growth, particularly as the country embraces digital transformation and sustainability. With increasing investment in renewable energy sources and smart city initiatives, there is a growing demand for advanced lighting solutions that not only provide illumination but also improve connectivity and energy efficiency.
Italy's National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) is facilitating significant changes across various sectors, pushing businesses to adopt digital and ecological innovations. The intersection of lighting technology and information & communication technology represents a key area of development, creating opportunities for companies like To Be to capitalize on emerging trends.
Moreover, the healthcare sector in Italy stands to benefit from these technological advancements. As modernization efforts gain momentum, there is an opportunity to replace outdated lighting systems with energy-efficient LED solutions. Given that less than 10% of healthcare facilities currently use LED lighting, the potential for market penetration is substantial.
Access Full Deal Insights
You’re viewing a public preview of this deal. To unlock full access to ca. 50,000 other deals in our database and join ca. 400 M&A professionals who are using it daily, sign up for Dealert.
The Rationale Behind the Deal
The recent funding rounds, which attracted both institutional and retail investors, highlight the growing confidence in To Be’s innovative approach to lighting solutions. The capital raised will enable To Be to enhance its team and organizational capabilities while pursuing strategic partnerships within the telecommunications sector, which is critical for the successful implementation of LiFi technology.
This investment is particularly timely as the global demand for smart lighting and connectivity continues to rise. As companies increasingly seek to adopt integrated solutions that promote efficiency and sustainability, To Be is well-positioned to meet these evolving market needs.
Information About the Investor
The funding for To Be was secured from a diverse group of investors, including institutional backers like AZIMUT ELTIF – Venture Capital ALIcrowd III and Magic Spectrum, which is part of CDP Venture Capital’s 5G and IoT Accelerator Network. Additionally, support from Fondazione Compagnia di San Paolo and other small investors emphasizes the strong belief in To Be’s vision and potential for growth.
Magic Spectrum’s prior investment in To Be during its pre-seed round signifies a sustained commitment to the company's mission. The presence of multiple investors from both the public and private sectors illustrates a collective recognition of the need for innovative infrastructure solutions in the growing fields of IT and telecommunications.
View of Dealert
Investing in To Be Srl appears to be a sound decision due to the company's focus on an intersection of technology and sustainable infrastructure. As lighting and information systems converge, To Be’s LiFi solutions stand out as a revolutionary development that addresses contemporary needs in connectivity and energy efficiency.
The capital raised will considerably bolster To Be’s capacity to expand its market presence, especially in Europe. Their strategic intent to enter the international market, coupled with a well-defined roadmap for the development of novel applications in healthcare and corporate sectors, enhances their attractiveness as a long-term investment.
Furthermore, the ongoing transformation within Italy's lighting industry and governmental support through initiatives like the PNRR further positions To Be to leverage favorable conditions for growth and innovation. Addressing both public and private sector needs, while demonstrating alignment with national objectives, strengthens To Be's investment thesis.
Similar Deals
a16z Speedrun, Italian Angels for Growth (IAG), Vento Ventures, Zest, Vesper Holding → Waveful
2023
Fondazione Social Venture Giordano Dell'Amore
invested in
To Be Srl
in 2024
in a Seed Stage deal
Disclosed details
Transaction Size: $1M