HSBCAD

hsbcad is an international leader in software solutions for offsite construction, focusing on mass timber structures. The hsbcad software enables an industrial approach: most structural components are designed and produced in an offsite plant and are later assembled on the building site. The Ghent-based company enjoys wide recognition as a world leader: multiple international players use the hsbcad software, and in Japan, often only contractors qualify for tenders if they use it.

Various iconic buildings, such as the Kanazawa station for high-speed trains in Japan or the Hoho Wien in Austria (with 24 floors the second highest skyscraper in the world made of wood) illustrate that the combination of wood and offsite construction is one of the fastest growing segments in the construction industry. This is primarily due to the fact that productivity gains in the traditional construction sector have been limited in recent decades compared to the evolution of other industries. With advanced automation, robotisation, artificial intelligence, strict quality control and optimal resource management, the offsite approach challenges conventional construction by offering more value for money and faster time-to-market.

Timber construction is also the most environmentally friendly segment of the construction industry. It uses the most efficient technology for extracting carbon from the air: forestry. Studies have shown that timber construction, combined with sustainable forestry management, is a key lever to make the construction sector carbon-neutral.

hsbcad raised 3 million euros in 2021 in order to expand its activities and further internationalise. In doing so, it is making an essential contribution to the transition to a carbon-neutral construction sector.

The investment round is supported by current shareholders, a large group of hsbcad employees, PMV, Peter Hinssen, Nele Van Damme & Koenraad Belsack (co-CEOs of Upgrade Estate) and growth investors.