Etienne Louvet
Etienne Louvet
Founder & CEO @ IONA | Forbes 30U30 | Autonomous Logistics · I've dedicated my career to building systems that work within the planet's limits.
Projects
Ideas brought to life. A look at the products, companies, and creative works built from the ground up.
IONA
End-to-end autonomous drone logistics platform: long-range cargo drone (design claims up to 20 kg payload and 100–200 km range depending on source), proprietary fleet operating system for autonomous BVLOS deliveries, robotic hubs and software to integrate with logistics operators.
LIFT Project (DTIF partnership)
DTIF-funded Logistics Innovation for Flight Transport (LIFT) project with EireComposites and Technological University Dublin to advance drone logistics; supports manufacturing and technology development in Ireland.
Techstars (accelerator participation)
IONA participated in Techstars (listed in Techstars LA cohort coverage), raising pre-seed funding and benefiting from accelerator mentorship and network.
Huacachina Strategy
Consultancy offering strategy and PoC reviews across deeptech, sustainability and related sectors (pre-IONA consulting work).
In the Spotlight
A collection of articles, interviews, and viral content where achievements have been shared.
Recognitions
Formal validation from the top. A showcase of official awards, grants, and government acknowledgements.
Forbes 30 Under 30 — Europe (Manufacturing & Industry)
2024Listed in Forbes 30 Under 30 for Europe, recognizing leadership in autonomous logistics and sustainable delivery.
Seed funding / Company milestones (IONA)
2024–2025Multiple press and alumni sources cite IONA closing seed funding rounds and raising several million dollars/euros across rounds (sources report figures ranging from ~$2M to $5M/€4.3M).
Techstars accelerator (participation/selection)
2023Participation in Techstars cohort noted in press coverage (accelerator selection and exposure).
Work Experience
Key roles that defined the journey.
Founder & CEO
Sep 2021 – PresentLeads product, strategy, fundraising and operations for IONA — building long-range cargo drones, fleet OS, and commercial pilots with logistics partners.
Business Advisor
Jan 2024 – PresentAdvisory role (business development / strategy).
Angel Investor (climate, deeptech)
Jan 2020 – PresentAngel investing in climate and deeptech seed-stage companies.
Founder / Deeptech Consultant
Mar 2020 – Sep 2021Consultancy providing strategy and PoC advisory across deeptech and sustainability projects.
Consultant Team Lead
Apr 2021 – Jun 2021Consulting team lead for short-term engagements.
Junior Account Manager
Jan 2018 – Feb 2020Early-career role in telecoms/enterprise sales and account management.
Editor
Jan 2015 – Jan 2018Editorial role prior to consulting and startup work.
Student Consultant
Sep 2017 – Dec 2017Short-term student consultancy engagement.
Project Manager (intern)
May 2016 – Aug 2016Early project management internship.
Membership
Affiliations and memberships in prestigious organizations and communities.
Participation in Techstars cohort (LA mention in press coverage).
Listed as a Founders Pledge member in profile/press coverage.
IONA highlighted by Everywhere Ventures (investor backing / support).
Featured in 2050 Accelerator news covering IONA as part of climate-tech innovation ecosystem in Ireland.
Education
Academic foundation and learning journey.
Master in Management (MiM)
Master of Management, focus on venture capital & investment (profile and Malt listing).
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
BBA, Economics & International Trades (ESSEC alumnus; featured on ESSEC Alumni site).
Study Abroad / Exchange
Exchange program (listed on Malt/LinkedIn education entries).
Socials
Connect and explore.