Simone Testino

Growth Strategy

2 min read

ABSTRACT

From a garage prototype to a European market leader. This page outlines the strategic roadmap for scaling Luna, funding milestones, and long-term vision.

Phase 1: Validation & MVP (Current - Late 2026)

Goal: Prove the product works and people want it.

  • Milestone 1: Regulatory Clearance: Obtain ENAC/EASA clarification (Ongoing).
  • Milestone 2: Working Prototype: Build “Luna Type One” at Luna Lab.
  • Milestone 3: First Pilot: 5-10 supervised rentals to friendly local customers (Construction/Events in Liguria).

Phase 2: Market Entry (2027)

Goal: Establish a repeatable sales/rental model.

  • Strategy: “Regime Forfettario” Optimization.
    • Leverage the Italian tax regime for startups (up to €85k revenue/year with flat 5-15% tax).
    • Keep overheads low. Founder-led sales.
  • Target:
    • 20 Active Rental Units.
    • 50 Unit Sales.
    • Revenue: ~€100k - €150k.
  • Team: Hire 1st employee (Technician/Assembly).

Phase 3: Scaling & Industrialization (2028+)

Goal: Expand beyond Italy and industrialize production.

  • Funding: Seed Round / Series A.
    • Seek €500k - €1M investment.
    • Target VCs specializing in Hardware/ConstructionTech.
  • Operations:
    • Move to dedicated manufacturing facility.
    • Establish distribution partners in DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland).
    • Launch “Luna Pro” (ATEX certified for Oil & Gas).
  • Marketing:
    • Attend major trade shows (Bauma, SaMoTer).
    • Digital marketing campaign targeting rental companies.

Funding Strategy

1. Grants & Public Funding (Non-Dilutive)

We actively pursue non-repayable grants to fund R&D.

  • FESR Azione 1.3.3. EU Grant: Secured (July 2025).
  • DBU (German Federal Environmental Foundation): Potential partner for ecological innovation.
  • EIT Manufacturing: European innovation network opportunities.

2. Bootstrapping

Reinvesting early rental profits to fund growth.

  • Pros: Retain equity/control.
  • Cons: Slower growth.
  • Plan: Use for Phase 1 & 2.

3. Equity Investment

Bringing in external capital for rapid scaling.

  • Trigger: When demand exceeds our ability to self-fund production.
  • Valuation Driver: Proven unit economics and IP (Patent).

Strategic Partnerships

  • ColivingLiguria: Our incubator and HQ. Provides space, community, and initial network.
  • University of Genoa: Potential collaboration for aerodynamic validation.
  • Rental Chains (e.g., Boels, Kiloutou): The ultimate goal is to become a supplier for these major networks.

Exit Strategy (Long Term)

  • Acquisition: By a major light tower manufacturer (Generac, Atlas Copco) looking to green their portfolio.
  • Independence: Growing into a sustainable SME dominating the niche of balloon lighting.

Luna is built to be a real business from day one, with a clear path from prototype to profit.

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