Wave Function Ventures announced a strategic investment in Natilus, a San Diego-based aerospace company developing blended-wing-body aircraft aimed at transforming both cargo and passenger aviation through improved efficiency and reduced emissions.
The investment supports founders focused on building transformative technologies with measurable environmental impact. Natilus is developing blended-wing-body aircraft that are designed to deliver 50% lower emissions, 40% more cargo space, and 30% fuel savings compared to traditional tube-and-wing freighters. With aviation responsible for approximately 1 gigaton of CO₂ annually, or nearly 3% of global emissions, the company’s projected efficiency gains could represent a meaningful reduction in the sector’s climate footprint.
Founded in 2016, Natilus combines advanced aerospace engineering with a focus on environmental responsibility. Its aircraft are designed to be 25% lighter than conventional jets and use existing engine technology, reducing technical risk while leveraging established supply chains and maintenance ecosystems.
Natilus was initially seeded with support from Draper Associates, an early-stage venture capital firm known for backing companies such as Tesla, SpaceX, and Coinbase. Wave Function Ventures’ investment is part of Natilus’s ongoing growth as it advances toward commercializing sustainable aviation solutions.
The Natilus product family includes KONA for cargo operations and HORIZON for passenger transport. Both aircraft are designed to integrate with existing airport infrastructure, addressing historical barriers that have slowed aviation innovation.
The Natilus team includes engineers and innovators from organizations such as General Atomics, Northrop Grumman, Skunk Works, SpaceX, and Piper Aircraft.
Wave Function Ventures provides strategic support and flexible funding to purpose-driven founders focused on driving positive global impact.
KEY QUOTES:
“We see an incredible convergence. It’s smart engineering that helps the planet by cutting emissions while integrating into existing airport infrastructure. Our investment in Natilus supports founders building technology that makes a real difference. At Wave Function, we invest in founders who bridge innovation with positive planetary impact. Natilus is reimagining the foundation of aviation, and we’re excited to support their growth.”
Al Peters, Founder of Wave Function
“Our digital-first engineering approach reduces reliance on costly prototypes without compromising safety. We’re not just designing aircraft, we’re future-proofing logistics.”
Aleksey Matyushev, CEO of Natilus
