Detroit’s Fontinalis Partners Backs Company Improving Air Cargo Operations

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Fontinalis Partners, a Detroit-based venture capital firm focused on next-generation mobility, announced today it has invested in SmartKargo, a Cambridge, Mass.-based company that helps airlines maximize their air cargo operations.

“We founded Fontinalis Partners with the belief that innovative technology solutions could be impactful in improving mobility globally across all modes,” says William (Bill) C. Ford Jr., a founder and partner of Fontinalis and executive chairman of Ford Motor Co. “With the proliferation of e-commerce and the growing complexity and global nature of supply chains, SmartKargo is playing a critical role in ensuring that logistics keep pace with this accelerating demand.”

Specifically, SmartKargo uses cloud computing, mobile platforms such as smartphones and tablets, and data analytics to help airlines build cargo revenue and improve service. The Cloud-based program generates manifests, manages stock, and enables tracking at every stage of cargo movement.

Customers, such as freight transportation companies, can also use the solution to book space directly and track their shipment throughout the entire process. As revenue accounting is integrated into the system, SmartKargo generates a bill for each individual shipment.

“SmartKargo is precisely the sort of company that fits our portfolio, with its cutting edge solution for managing air cargo from shipper to recipient,” said Chris Cheever, a founder and partner of Fontinalis Partners, who will join the SmartKargo board. “We feel strongly that SmartKargo offers a best-in-class solution for airlines of all sizes and we look forward to working with the team to drive tremendous growth.”

Founded in 2013, SmartKargo provides cargo solutions for seven global airlines. Most recent partnerships include Hawaiian Airlines, Air Costa, and Cebu Pacific Air.

“We are delighted to partner with Fontinalis Partners as we expand our business globally,” says Milind Tavshikar, founder and CEO of SmartKargo, which has a development center in Pune, India, and is launching a support center in Manila, Philippines. “Fontinalis’ commitment to drive innovation across next-generation mobility and (the) depth of their experience in the transportation industry — across all modes — will contribute to SmartKargo’s global growth.”