VGA SRL

Their core work

VGA is an Italian SME specializing in electro-mechanical actuator (EMA) systems, with deep engineering expertise in converting rotary or linear motion into reliable mechanical power. They originally applied this competence to aerospace landing gear systems, then pivoted to design power take-off and generator systems for ocean wave energy converters. Their core value lies in precision electro-mechanical engineering — specifically ballscrew-based actuators — adapted for harsh and safety-critical environments, from aircraft undercarriages to marine energy harvesting.

What they specialise in

How they've shifted over time

VGA's trajectory shows a deliberate technology transfer from aerospace to ocean energy. Their early work (2017) focused on electro-mechanical actuators for aircraft landing gear — a high-reliability, safety-critical application. From 2018 onward, they applied the same EMA and ballscrew engineering to wave energy converters, designing generators and power take-off systems for marine environments. By 2021, they had enough domain confidence to coordinate IMPACT, their largest project, signaling a full strategic pivot toward ocean energy.

VGA is moving from component supplier in aerospace to a technology leader in ocean wave energy, applying their EMA expertise to marine power generation — expect continued focus on wave energy commercialization.

How they like to work

VGA started as a participant in larger consortia (FASE-LAG, IMAGINE) before stepping up to coordinate IMPACT, their most recent and best-funded project. With 12 unique partners across 7 countries from just 3 projects, they build broad European networks rather than sticking to a fixed group. Their progression from participant to coordinator suggests a growing confidence and willingness to lead, making them a strong partner for teams that need hands-on engineering leadership rather than passive contribution.

VGA has collaborated with 12 distinct partners across 7 European countries in just 3 projects, indicating they integrate well into diverse consortia. Their network spans both aerospace and ocean energy communities, giving them cross-sector connections unusual for an SME of their size.

What sets them apart

VGA's distinguishing strength is their ability to transfer precision electro-mechanical actuator technology across very different domains — from aerospace landing gear to ocean wave energy. Few SMEs possess this cross-sector adaptability grounded in a single deep technical competence. For consortium builders in marine energy, VGA offers something rare: proven EMA engineering from safety-critical aerospace, now purpose-built for the harsh demands of ocean environments.

Highlights from their portfolio

• IMPACT
  VGA's first coordination role with EUR 1.5M funding — their largest project and a signal of their strategic commitment to wave energy technology.
• IMAGINE
  The pivot project where VGA applied aerospace actuator expertise to ocean energy, developing electro-mechanical generators for wave energy converters.
• FASE-LAG
  Established VGA's credentials in fail-safe electro-mechanical systems for safety-critical aerospace applications (landing gear).