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The Company and Our Investment

21Net is a European operator who established the world's first bi-directional satellite communications system capable of delivering high speed internet to high speed trains. Initially sponsored by the European Space Agency, 21Net was the first provider to technically demonstrate the provisioning of broadband internet on a high speed train, in 2004. Since then, 21Net has been working closely with leading railway operators RENFE, THALYS and SNCF (mooviTER) to develop a robust & technically mature system.

"Having established itself as the technological leader with regard to the provision of 2-way broadband internet communications to high speed trains, 21Net is excellently positioned to exploit the significant growth opportunities that exist on a global basis, stimulated by a combination of increasing demand for multi-media communication services on trains and the very significant investment in train operating companies, in part through fiscal stimuli. Octopus continues to support 21Net and looks forward to working with Henry and the team to ensure that the Company realises its full potential."

Jo Oliver, Octopus Ventures

Key Information

SECTOR: Software and Computer Services

DATE COMPLETED: January 2005

TRANSACTION TYPE: Advanced early stage

INVESTMENT: £210,000

FUNDS INVESTED: Octopus Venture Partners

FURTHER FUNDING: 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009

PORTFOLIO STATUS: Current

OCTOPUS CONTACT: Jo Oliver

The Company and Our Investment

Key Information

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