Introduction
Jet Zero was established in 2021 with the objective of producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in Australia. The company plans to convert domestic agricultural waste into a cleaner aviation fuel using a specialised conversion process (Alcohol-to-Jet technology). SAF offers an alternative to traditional, carbon intensive aviation fuels, at a 60-70% lower carbon footprint. Jet Zero intends to utilise Australia’s agricultural resources for SAF production.
The company’s objectives include contributing to economic activity in regional areas by processing agricultural waste, such as crop residues. Jet Zero estimates its operations could generate opportunities for over 23,000 regional farmers through new revenue streams and local job creation. Additionally, Jet Zero aims to assist corporations and airlines in working towards their net-zero emissions targets by providing a domestically produced SAF that can be readily consumed at Australia’s largest airports. Since its formation, Jet Zero has developed partnerships with technology providers, energy distributors, and government bodies to validate its business model and plan for operational scaling. To achieve its growth objectives, the company required external funding and expert guidance in capital markets.
The Problem
Jet Zero required capital to progress the detailed planning and engineering stages for its proposed SAF project in Townsville, QLD. As a company yet to generate revenue, securing traditional loans was not feasible, and external capital was essential to move to the next stage of project development. Securing this funding was important for attracting long-term investors, obtaining government support, and establishing Jet Zero in the emerging SAF market. Without this capital, the company faced potential delays in its project timeline and its ability to meet stakeholder expectations.
The founder understood that raising capital required a structured approach beyond the company’s existing operational expertise. The SAF sector, particularly new technologies, can be perceived by investors as higher risk due to questions around large-scale production and timelines for profitability. Jet Zero needed to present a clear case outlining its environmental and economic potential, along with a credible path to financial returns. The company also faced the task of coordinating with a diverse range of potential investors, each with different expectations and information requirements.
Our Approach
Jet Zero engaged Greenwich as a Corporate Advisor to assist with its capital raising and project management requirements. Greenwich implemented a structured process for the capital raise, working with Jet Zero’s leadership to understand the company’s vision, financial needs, and long-term objectives, ensuring alignment with its strategic goals.
Greenwich’s role included:
Strategic Project Management
Overseeing the entire capital raising process, including setting timelines, identifying key milestones, and coordinating all activities to maintain progress.
Financial Modelling and Documentation
Developing detailed financial projections and constructing a comprehensive investment memorandum, outlining both the environmental impact and the financial business case.
Investor Roadshow & Presentations
Organising and managing events to highlight Jet Zero’s innovative fuel conversion technology, its potential economic benefits for regional Australia, and its alignment with global sustainability trends.
Investor Coordination
Acting as a central point of contact to facilitate clear communication between Jet Zero and prospective investors, including arranging meetings, managing schedules, and ensuring all parties had the necessary information.
Information Management & Q&A
Establishing a secure and efficient system for sharing critical documents (such as technical reports, financial projections, and market analyses) and promptly addressing investor queries.
Transaction Support
Guiding Jet Zero through the final stages of the investment process to ensure a successful outcome.
Beyond this operational support, Greenwich utilised its extensive network of investors, including private equity firms, green energy funds, and government-linked entities. This network allowed Greenwich to identify and target investors whose interests aligned with Jet Zero’s long-term mission.
Outcome
The collaboration with Greenwich resulted in Jet Zero successfully securing the capital needed to complete its initial feasibility and planning study for the Queensland SAF plant. This funding enabled Jet Zero to advance its technical development, refine its operational plans, and move closer to commencing construction on a facility intended to contribute to sustainable aviation fuel production in Australia.
Beyond the initial capital raise, the process facilitated opportunities with new investors for future funding rounds. Jet Zero solidified long-term partnerships with key stakeholders, including technology providers and energy distributors. These alliances strengthened Jet Zero’s supply chain and positioned it for scaling production once the Queensland facility becomes operational. The process also enhanced Jet Zero’s standing in the investment community. As noted in the Australian Financial Review article “Sustainable aviation fuel has been a talkfest for far too long“, Jet Zero, backed by Qantas and Airbus, is progressing with its Townsville plant project, which aims to produce 100 million litres of SAF annually from agricultural waste.
With the initial planning study completed, Jet Zero is positioned for its next phase of growth. The company has subsequently received an additional $29 million in private funding and $14 million in public funding to complete the detailed engineering design for its project. Jet Zero has addressed its immediate funding challenge and positioned itself to be one of the first SAF producers in Australia.
Partner with Greenwich to Achieve Your Business Goals
Is your business poised for growth but facing challenges in securing capital, navigating complex transactions, or optimising your strategic direction? The success of Jet Zero Australia demonstrates Greenwich’s expertise in guiding companies through critical development phases. Our tailored approach, combining strategic project management, investor coordination, and in-depth financial modelling, can help unlock your company’s potential.
Whether you are an early-stage venture seeking to fund your next milestone or an established business looking to expand, our team is ready to provide the expert guidance and support you need.
Contact Greenwich today to discuss how we can help you achieve your strategic objectives and drive your business forward.
