Helogen Expands into India with Vellon Space Acquisition
Deal News | Apr 30, 2025 | Globenewswire
Helogen Corporation, a New York-based space biology and infrastructure firm, has announced its strategic acquisition of Vellon Space Private Limited, a Bengaluru-based startup specializing in unmanned space laboratories and microgravity research. This acquisition signifies Helogen's expansion into India's rapidly growing pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors. The integration of Vellon's expertise and its collaborations with Indian institutions like ISRO and IITs allows Helogen to offer its advanced technologies to Indian researchers and companies, potentially reducing drug development timelines. This move aligns with India's aspirations in space exploration and biotechnology, setting a foundation for a future where space serves as a laboratory for innovation. Vellon Space will form the cornerstone of Helogen's operations in India, with Ajay Kumar stepping into a key leadership role at Helogen. The terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Sectors
- Space Technology
- Biotechnology
- Pharmaceutical
Geography
- India – Vellon Space is based in Bengaluru, and the acquisition strengthens Helogen's presence in India's biotech sector.
- United States – Helogen Corporation is headquartered in New York City, USA.
Industry
- Space Technology – The acquisition involves companies specializing in space laboratories and microgravity research.
- Biotechnology – The initiative targets advancements in drug development and biomanufacturing in space.
- Pharmaceutical – Helogen aims to impact India's pharmaceutical market through accelerated drug development.
Financials
- Confidential – The terms of the acquisition deal between Helogen and Vellon Space.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Helogen Corporation | Acquirer | Company | A space biology and infrastructure company based in New York City. |
| Vellon Space Private Limited | Target Company | Company | A Bengaluru-based startup specializing in unmanned space laboratories and microgravity research. |
| Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) | Collaborative Partner | Government | India's national space agency, collaborating with Vellon Space. |
| Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) | Collaborative Partner | Educational Institution | Leading educational institutions in India, collaborating with Vellon Space. |
| Ajay Kumar | Executive | Person | CEO of Vellon Space; will take on the role of VP Mission Development for MEAP at Helogen. |
| Shishir Bankapur | CEO | Person | CEO of Helogen Corporation. |