We work with founders, researchers, and industry partners to transform breakthrough aerospace ideas into scalable companies.
Operating at the intersection of AI, aerospace engineering, and entrepreneurship, Horizon helps launch ventures shaping the future of flight, space, and autonomous systems.
Horizon: Building the next generation of aerospace ventures.
Horizon is the venture studio of the AERIS ecosystem at UC Berkeley.
Why Horizon
The Aerospace Startup Opportunity
A new wave of aerospace innovation is emerging:
- Autonomous aerial systems
- Next-generation satellite infrastructure
- AI-driven aviation
- Climate technologies for aviation
- Advanced propulsion
- Defense and dual-use technologies
However, aerospace ventures face unique challenges:
- Deep technical complexity
- Long development cycles
- Regulatory barriers
- High capital requirements
Horizon exists to help founders navigate and overcome these challenges.
What We Do
Venture Creation
Horizon helps build aerospace startups from early concepts to venture-scale companies. We work with:
- Founders
- Researchers
- Engineers
- Industry experts
Our goal is to identify opportunities and build new ventures.
Startup Acceleration
Horizon supports startups through:
- Venture design
- Technical mentorship
- Go-to-market strategy
- Investor introductions
- Pilot partnerships with industry
Venture Partnerships
We collaborate with:
- Aerospace corporations
- Venture capital firms
- Government agencies
- Research institutions
We help them accelerate the commercialization of breakthrough technologies.
Venture Themes
AI for Aerospace
AI-enabled systems for flight, space, and aerospace operations.
Autonomous Systems
Uncrewed aerial systems, autonomous navigation, and robotic aerospace platforms.
Space Infrastructure
Technologies supporting the emerging space economy, including satellites, data platforms, and orbital services.
Sustainable Aviation
Technologies enabling lower-emission aviation and new energy systems.
Defense & Dual-Use Technologies
Solutions with both commercial and defense applications.
How the Studio Works
Step 1 — Opportunity Discovery
Identify high-impact opportunities emerging from research, industry needs, and technological breakthroughs.
Step 2 — Venture Formation
Build founding teams and develop initial products and business models.
Step 3 — Acceleration
Support early-stage ventures through mentorship, partnerships, and investment connections.
Step 4 — Scale
Help companies raise capital and scale operations through the global aerospace ecosystem
Work with Horizon
Founders
We work with entrepreneurs building the next generation of aerospace technologies. Apply to join the venture studio.
Researchers
Researchers with breakthrough technologies can work with Horizon to translate research into startups.
Industry
Aerospace companies partner with Horizon to:
- Identify new technologies
- Collaborate with startups
- Explore venture opportunities
Investors
Horizon works with venture capital firms and strategic investors interested in aerospace innovation.
Events & Community
Horizon participates in the Sky’s Not the Limit aerospace innovation series. Events connect:
- Founders
- Investors
- Engineers
Aerospace leaders