# INLEAP Photonics

Startup profile on Capital Atlas: https://capitalatlas.ai/startups/inleap-photonics

- Industry: Defence
- Headquarters: Hannover, Germany
- Website: www.inleap-photonics.com
- Total disclosed funding: $23M
- Latest round: Seed (Sep 1, 2026)
- Investors on record: 5

## About

Based in Hannover, Germany, founded in 2023, INLEAP Photonics GmbH develops innovative laser systems, including the INLEAP FASTLIGHT SHIELD for drone defense. The company was co-founded by Marius Lammers (CEO as of 2026), Felix Wellmann and Katharina Haas. In September 2026, INLEAP Photonics GmbH raised EUR 20 million in seed funding led by Unternehmertum Venture Capital, with participation from Balnord, Sentris Capital, and Scale Capital and High-Tech Gruenderfonds.

INLEAP Photonics specializes in the development of advanced laser system technologies, primarily focusing on high-precision and ultra-fast laser beam steering solutions. Their core product, the INLEAP® FASTLIGHT® SHIELD, is designed for drone defense, utilizing precise laser beam steering technology to intercept drones effectively while ensuring safety in urban environments. This system targets specific vulnerable points on drones using a highly controlled, high-energy light spot, providing a reliable solution to address the increasing security challenges posed by drones. Additionally, INLEAP® FASTLIGHT® serves the industrial sector by optimizing laser material processing workflows, significantly reducing non-productive times compared to traditional systems. INLEAP Photonics primarily serves clients in security, defense, and manufacturing industries across various markets, including North America, Europe, and Asia.

INLEAP Photonics generates revenue through the sale of its innovative laser systems and technologies, primarily targeting B2B clients in the defense and industrial sectors. The transaction structure typically involves direct sales agreements with businesses that require advanced drone defense capabilities or optimized manufacturing processes. Clients may purchase the INLEAP® FASTLIGHT® SHIELD or the INLEAP® FASTLIGHT® system as standalone products or as part of comprehensive solutions that integrate with their existing systems. Pricing structures are tailored to the specific needs and configurations of the clients, which can include initial setup fees, maintenance contracts, and potential subscription models for ongoing software updates and support. The focus on high-precision and ultra-fast technology positions INLEAP Photonics to cater to a growing demand for safety and efficiency in critical environments, further solidifying their market presence.

The company plans to use the September 2026 funding to expand its market presence and broaden its product portfolio.

## Funding rounds

- Seed, Sep 1, 2026, $23M — High-Tech Gruenderfonds, Unternehmertum Venture Capital, Scale Capital, Balnord, Sentris Capital

## Investors

- High-Tech Gruenderfonds (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/high-tech-gruenderfonds) — Seed
- Unternehmertum Venture Capital (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/unternehmertum-venture-capital) — Seed
- Scale Capital — Seed
- Balnord — Seed
- Sentris Capital (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/sentris-capital) — Seed