Former Disney child star and accomplished scholar, Bridgit Mendler, has taken a significant leap from her acting and academic past into the world of tech with her new aerospace startup, Northwood. The venture has made quite the entrance, raising over $6 million in funds for its ambitious space-age operations.
At a young age of 31, Mendler, now co-founder and CEO of Northwood, has successfully garnered substantial venture capital from Founders Fund, led by Peter Thiel, and Andreessen Horowitz. The startup’s bold mission? To revolutionize space communication by providing a seamless data link between Earth and Space, an endeavor that could shape the future of space exploration and research.
Mendler’s transition from show business to academia, and now to CEO of a pioneering startup, is truly remarkable. Fully immersed in the academic world, her passion lies in fostering innovation within the space sector. This involves enhancing communication capabilities specifically in data transmission to and from Earth, and within Space. Part of this innovative plan is the creation of ground satellite stations to boost production and launch speeds.
Northwood plans to make a significant impact by mass-producing teleport or ground stations, significantly reducing the traditional 18-month wait period satellite operators currently face for antenna delivery. With more readily available stations, crucial data transmission from space will speed up, creating a shift in operational dynamics for satellite industries.
Northwood’s unique blend of innovation and nostalgic origins continues to attract serious investors. Major venture capital and private equity firms like BoxGroup, Also Capital, and Humba Ventures have been more than willing to back the startup. The name ‘Northwood’ itself was coined as homage to Mendler’s cherished family trips to New Hampshire.
Backing Mendler’s vision is a powerful team including her husband, Griffin Cleverly, Northwood’s Chief Technology Officer, and Shaurya Luthra, heading its software department. With the collective experience of working as engineers at Lockheed Martin, they’re set to push boundaries with the startup’s inaugural spacecraft in-orbit test anticipated later this year.
