Italian Angels for Growth (IAG) and Doorway are pleased to announce the partial exit of Winegrid, the innovative Portuguese startup bringing continuous monitoring solutions for the transformation of grapes into wine. Enartis, the Italian multinational company belonging to the Esseco Group, a world leader in the alcoholic beverage equipment market, has acquired a majority stake in the promising startup founded by Rogerio Nogueira and Lucia Bilro.
Thanks to Winegrid's cutting-edge technology, based on the use of smart sensors capable of monitoring the main stages of wine production, Enartis will be able to increase winery efficiency and optimize processing. Performing predictive analysis will allow for a drastic reduction in the need for sampling and verification during winemaking. The transaction is an important step forward for both companies and confirms the value of technological innovation in the wine industry. Enartis confirms itself as a global player in alcoholic beverage production technologies, always alert to new opportunities offered by technological innovation.
The first meeting between Winegrid and IAG business angels was in 2018, when an initial group of investors led by IAG Champion Michele Marzola chose to back the project proposed by Rogerio Noguiera. Subsequently, Doorway in 2021 opened its doors to the Portuguese startup's funding campaign, investing together with IAG another 350,000 euros.
Michele Marzola, IAG Champion for investment in Winegrid: "IAG's role as lead investor has enabled Winegrid to take off and consolidate, not only financially, but also through strategic support and connections in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. This has provided Winegrid with crucial support in its path of growth and development, underscoring the value of investors who offer not only funds, but also expertise and a valuable network of contacts."
Leonardo Giagnoni, Managing Director IAG: "IAG's fourth exit in 2023, a track record that is getting stronger and confirms the goodness of the portfolio that even in complex periods manages to seize market opportunities. We are doubly pleased to have supported an international team that has developed a relevant technology in the agritech world and today goes to join forces with an established Italian group by innovating its product portfolio."
Antonella Grassigli, CEO and Co-founder of Doorway, comments, "We are very pleased with the transaction involving one of the investees in our portfolio. This once again demonstrates the robustness of the startup selection process by our investment team. Considering Enartis' development plans for business growth, the full exit could be finalized in a few years, with excellent returns for investors."