PAVE Space wins the 2026 PERL Trophy for orbital innovation

The 24th edition of the Prix Entreprendre Lausanne Région (PERL) ceremony was held at Beaulieu, Lausanne on 7 May 2026, bringing together around 230 people to celebrate the region’s entrepreneurial talent. Out of nearly 60 applicant companies, PAVE Space claimed the Trophée PERL and its CHF 50’000 prize for a breakthrough innovation in orbital mobility.

Based in Chavannes-près-Renens, PAVE Space develops a kickstage: an orbital vehicle that takes over after a satellite launch to deliver it to its final orbit. Where conventional approaches require between six and twelve months to complete this transfer, PAVE Space’s system reduces it to under 24 hours. By compressing this critical step in the satellite deployment chain, the company addresses a growing demand for faster, cheaper, and less complex space missions. The Vaud-based start-up previously raised USD 40 million in seed funding, one of the largest early-stage space rounds in Western Switzerland.

From orbit to biodiversity: a lineup reflecting tomorrow’s challenges

Three Innovation Awards of CHF 10’000 each recognized companies tackling distinct but pressing issues. WasteFlow was honored for an AI-powered platform that optimizes sorting center operations by analyzing waste flows in real time. Rea Diagnostics was recognized for a non-invasive home test assessing the risk of premature birth. SurfAce Cleantech received its award for a biobased coating that makes compostable packaging more durable and commercially viable.

Both the Jury’s Coup de Coeur and the Public Prize, each worth CHF 10’000, went to Birds&Co, whose floating cork platforms provide protected lake birds with an alternative nesting habitat, keeping them off boats during the navigation season.