HyperTunnel joins Vinci foresight and innovation platform

HyperTunnel was founded to transform conventional tunnel-building processes. It aims to build tunnels faster, more economically, with less risk, and in an environmentally-friendly way.

As one of 44 start-ups, hyperTunnel will participate in Leonard’s 2022 acceleration programme and is one of just ten in the Catalyst cohort. The aim of Catalyst is to support innovative companies to deploy their products and services in partnership with Vinci Group companies.

Now in its third year, the Catalyst programme selects companies for their potential to transform their respective sectors. They are seen as having the potential to develop pioneering solutions covering environmental transition, safety, productivity and competitiveness. Vinci executives provide mentoring to participants who are then connected to an international network of potential technology partners and investors.

“This is an exciting opportunity that has come at just the right time,” said hyperTunnel CEO Richard Matthews. “We have big plans for 2022 and beyond as we continue to move rapidly from prototype to full commercial offering. Vinci is particularly interested in reducing the environmental impact of construction and other industries, so there’s a great deal of synergy with what we’re doing. We’re very eager to see what we can achieve together.”