Wafer manufacturing and GPUs draw investment; 106 companies raise $2.8B.
The month of December saw six rounds of $100 million or more. The largest, at a massive half-billion dollars, will support manufacturing of 12-inch monocrystalline silicon polished wafers and epitaxial wafers in China. The company is aiming for a production rate of 1 million pieces a month when current expansion is completed.
Also in the half-billion club last month is a company making autonomous, all-electric heavy freight vehicles. A GPU startup pulled over $200 million to make graphics cards for high-end gaming and HPC. The AI hardware startups returned in December, including one promising a unified architecture for all software and machine learning processing and another building charge-based in-memory computing chips. Of course, all these chips get hot. One company newly emerged from stealth promises a way to take care of the heat problem in laptops and is drawing attention from some major players.
Plus, power analysis, flexible electronics, additive manufacturing, and more in this look at 106 companies that collectively raised $2.8 billion in December 2022.
Moore Threads raised CNY 1,500.0M (~$215.5M) in Series B funding led by China Mobile Digital New Economy Industry Fund and Hexie Health Insurance, joined by Dianshi Capital. Moore Threads develops multi-functional GPUs and graphics cards for the high-end gaming market as well as for 3D rendering, video processing, and HPC applications such as telecommunications, finance, scientific workloads, and AI. The GPUs are based on the company’s self-developed Metacomputing Unified System Architecture (MUSA). Funds will be used for product iteration, architecture innovation, and other R&D. Founded in 2020, it is based in Beijing, China.
Frore Systems emerged from stealth with $100.0M in Series C funding from Qualcomm Ventures, Mayfield Fund, Addition, and Clear Ventures. Frore Systems develops solid-state cooling chips that aim to replace fans in consumer electronics with a MEMS-based device that incorporates piezoelectric layers, electrodes, and a diaphragm. The startup says its active cooling solutions remove more heat than fans, enabling notebooks to run up to 2X faster while being audibly silent and allowing creation of thinner, dustproof devices. It will also work with Intel on incorporating the technology into high-end laptops using Intel processors. Founded in 2018, it is based in San Jose, California, USA.
Siroywe, also known as Deep Stream Micro, drew CNY 100.0M (~$14.3M) in Series A funding from Xingwang Investment, Shunrong Auto Parts, and Z&Y Capital. The startup is developing high-performance GPU chips, with several lines planned for applications such as 3D rendering, image processing, VR, AI, data centers, and HPC. Funds will be used to accelerate product development. It plans to tape out it first chips soon. Founded in 2021, it is based in Shenzhen, China.
Haawking drew nearly CNY 100.0M (~$14.3M) in Series A+ funding led by Skyworth Investment, joined by Sequoia Capital China, Unity Ventures, Ginlong Technologies, and Huajin Capital. Haawking designs digital signal processors (DSPs) using the RISC-V ISA. It targets markets such as white goods, motor drivers, digital power supply, photovoltaics and energy storage, and new energy vehicles. Funds will be used for chip production and R&D. Based in Beijing, China, it was founded in 2019.
CIX Technology received pre-Series A+ financing from GF Qianhe Investment. CIX is developing intelligent CPU SoCs and computing solutions compatible with the Arm instruction set and focused on performance and efficiency. It targets high-end tablet computers, notebooks, desktops, AR/VR, and automotive cockpits. Its first product is expected to be released in 2023. Funds will be used for R&D and market expansion. Based in Shanghai, China, it was founded in 2021 and has raised over $100M to date.
NeuReality raised $35.0M in Series A funding led by Samsung Ventures, Cardumen Capital, Varana Capital, OurCrowd, and XT Hitech, with participation from SK Hynix, Cleveland Avenue, Korean Investment Partners, StoneBridge, and Glory Ventures. NeuReality makes purpose-built AI platforms optimized for deep learning inference use cases such as computer vision, natural language processing, and recommendation engines in data centers and near-edge on-premises locations. The startup says its Network Addressable Processing Units (NAPU) reduce the dependency on CPUs, NICs, and PCI switches and moves simple but critical data path functions from software to hardware. NeuReality claims its upcoming chip improves the utilization of AI compute resources that are currently deployed by removing existing system bottlenecks, lowering the latency of AI operations, and saving in overall system cost and power consumption. The company also provides software and runtime libraries to accelerate AI deployment. The fundraising will support deployment its inference solutions in 2023. Founded in 2019, the company is based in Caesarea, Israel, and has raised $48M to date.
EnCharge AI emerged from stealth with $21.7M in Series A financing led by Anzu Partners with participation from AlleyCorp, Scout Ventures, Silicon Catalyst Angels, Schams Ventures, E14 Fund, and Alumni Ventures. EnCharge is developing an AI platform using charge-based in-memory computing technology that it claims provides orders-of-magnitude higher compute efficiency and density compared to current digital AI accelerators. It says test chips and hardware can achieve over 150 TOPS/W for 8-b compute, making it suitable for power, energy, and space constrained applications at the edge. Funds will be used to further develop and commercialize its semiconductor hardware and software stack. Based on technology developed at Princeton University, it was founded in 2022 and is based in Santa Clara, California, USA.
Artosyn raised over CNY 100.0M (~$14.3M) in Series C funding led by Hefei Industry Investment Group. Artosyn develops edge AI, intelligent vision, and wireless audio/video transmission SoCs for applications including drones, security, automotive, and consumer electronics. It recently released a 150MHz-7GHz full-band wireless communication SoC. Funds will be used for hiring, R&D, production line expansion, and market expansion. Founded in 2011, it is based in Hefei, China.
Quadric added $10.0M in equity and debt financing to its Series B round with new investment from Xerox Ventures and Mesh Ventures, bringing the round to $31.0M. Quadric offers general purpose neural processing unit (GPNPU) processor IP. The GPNPU architecture blends the machine learning performance characteristics of a neural processing accelerator with the full C++ programmability of a modern digital signal processor (DSP). It can handle matrix and vector operations and scalar (control) code in one execution pipeline to provide one unified architecture for machine learning inference plus pre-and-post processing. “Quadric has taken a software first approach and has created a unique unified architecture that allows for all software and machine learning processing to be done on a single chip, eliminating latency and bandwidth bottlenecks,” said Dean Mai, investment director at Xerox Ventures. Veerbhan Kheterpal, co-founder and CEO of Quadric, noted how the funds would be used: “We are rapidly ramping up our commercial teams to engage customers and continuing to expand our top-notch engineering organization to deliver our GPNPU and our world-class software tools for application development.” Based in Burlingame, California, USA, it was founded in 2017.
Baum Design Systems raised ₩5,000.0M (~$3.9M) in Series A funding from LB Investment. Baum develops power modeling and analysis software for SoC design, including software/hardware co-design and power profiling, IP power modeling, power sign off, security vulnerability identification, and IR drop analysis. Founded in 2013, it is based in Seoul, South Korea.
Pragmatic Semiconductor added $35.0M to its Series C round with participation from new investors British Patient Capital, In-Q-Tel, Prosperity7 Ventures, and Maven Capital Partners, bringing the round to $125.0M. Pragmatic manufactures flexible electronics for IoT devices, using thin-film semiconductors it says are cheaper and faster to produce than silicon chips. It offers foundry services, deployment of its fabrication equipment at customer sites through a Fab-as-a-Service model, and a line of ultra-low-cost RFID devices. “We continue to see growing investor and customer interest in affordable solutions for digitization and control of supply chains, reinforced by government initiatives such as the recent EU legislation regarding Digital Product Passports,” said Erik Langaker, chair of Pragmatic. Funds will be used to accelerate expansion plans, including a second fabrication line at a new campus. Founded in 2021, it is based in Cambridge, UK.
Lidrotec raised €5.0M (~$5.3M) in Series A funding from GOOSE Capital, Gründerfonds Ruhr, Luminate Accelerator, Onsight Ventures, TiE Angels Texas, Sivas Asset Management, Sivotec, CRC Ventures, Industry Consulting Strobl, and individual investor Toni Schlegel. Lidrotec has developed a wafer-dicing laser technology for the semiconductor industry. It uses liquids in the laser processing zone, which cool and rinse wafers while the laser cuts out the chips. The startup claims this produces thinner cuts with higher precision, no damages to the material, clean surfaces without debris, and higher processing speeds without needing to adapt the production process. Founded in 2019, it is based in Bochum, Germany.
Syenta raised AUD 3.7M (~$2.5M) in seed funding from Blackbird Ventures, Jelix Ventures, and Brindabella Capital. Syenta has developed a method for 3D printing of multi-material electronics such as sensors, photovoltaics, batteries, PCBs, antennas, and flexible printed electronics. The startup’s equipment, which fits inside a box that can sit on a coffee table, can print metals (copper, nickel, silver, gold), conductive polymers (PEDOT, polyaniline, polypyrrole), semiconductor materials (molybdenum oxide, zinc telluride), and epoxy insulators. Funds will support technical development, delivery of printers to early customers, and hiring. Founded in 2020, it is based in Acton, Australia.
Goldenscope Tech, also known as Jinjing Technology, received tens of millions of yuan (CNY 10.0M is ~$1.4M) in a Series A+ round led by Lightspeed China Partners, joined by CDH Investments, Fortune Capital, TigerYeah Capital, and others. The startup builds cathode fluorescence imaging systems and spectral detection systems. Alongside uses in numerous scientific fields, they can be used in the semiconductor industry to detect device defects, improve raw material processes, and conduct IC failure analysis. In the future, it plans to expand to electron microscope peripheral products such as an ultrafast cathode fluorescence system, transmission electron microscope cathode fluorescence system, and low-temperature electron microscopy. Funds will be used to open a new R&D office. Based in Beijing, China, it was founded in 2018 and raised over CNY 100M in 2022.
KyLitho drew tens of millions of yuan (CNY 10.0M is ~$1.4M) in Series A financing from Infinity Capital, Meihua Venture Capital, and Panstar Asset Management. The startup provides a thick-film lithography process for manufacturing integrated passive devices. Founded in 2017, it is based in Shenzhen, China.
Gona Semiconductor Technology raised around CNY 10.0M (~$1.4M) from West Shanghai. Gona Semi makes wafer handling equipment, including Equipment Front End Module (EFEM), wafer sorter, wafer loading system, and open cassette stage. Based in Shanghai, China, it was founded in 2020.
Fluence Technology raised €1.0M (~$1.1M) in funding from JR Holding. The startup makes femtosecond lasers based on all-fiber optic technology that can be used in manufacturing consumer electronics, polymers, semiconductors, and LEDs. It also has applications in biophotonics and medicine. Founded in 2016, it is based in Warsaw, Poland.
Fortify received a strategic investment from Lockheed Martin Ventures. Fortify provides an additive manufacturing platform for complex structures with unique mechanical, electrical, thermal, and electromagnetic properties. The funds will be used for process and material development of additive manufacturing of RF devices. “The high-frequency communication space around RF is exploding with growth. This is not only in aerospace, but also in commercial 5G, satellite communications, autonomous vehicle sensors, and IoT,” said Lawrence Ganti, Fortify CEO. “Each of Lockheed Martin’s business areas have been adopting additive technologies for mission-critical systems at an aggressive rate. We’ve built and tested cutting-edge antenna and radar systems that are great examples of how additive can create unique value in aerospace, defense, and communications.” Founded in 2016, it is based in Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Laplace Energy Technology received new financing from China Life Science and Technology Innovation Fund and Yunhao Capital. Laplace makes equipment for semiconductors and photovoltaic manufacturing. Its products include equipment for low pressure chemical vapor deposition, plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition, atomic layer deposition, ultra-high temperature annealing and oxidization, diffusion furnaces, and low pressure horizontal diffusion systems. Based in Shenzhen, China, it was founded in 2016.
Starmask, also known as Longtu Photo Mask, raised pre-IPO financing from Silan Ventures and others. The company makes photomasks. It currently offers precisions down to 130nm for ICs and also provides photomasks for power semiconductors and MEMS. Funds will be used for construction of a new manufacturing facility. Founded in 2010, it is based in Shenzhen, China.
Talents & Technology raised Series A financing that included CasStar. The company provides manufacturing operation management software for battery, semiconductor, and other advanced manufacturing industries. Its products include manufacturing execution software (MES), laboratory information management system (LIMS), quality management system (QMS), and an R&D big data analysis system. Founded in 2009, it is based in Liyang, China.
3DSEMI raised CNY 165.0M (~$23.7M) in financing from the Guangdong Semiconductor and Integrated Circuit Industry Investment Fund, Guangzhou Industrial Investment Group, and Zengcheng Industrial Investment. The company provides wafer-level packaging services. Founded in 2022, it is based in Guangzhou, China.
Dewo Advanced Automation (DAA) raised hundreds of millions of yuan (CNY 100.0M is ~$14.3M) in Series A funding from Shanshan Group, Hiway Capital, QF Capital, and others. DAA makes high speed, high precision wire bonding machines for IC and LED packaging. Funds will be used for R&D, production line upgrades, and marketing. Founded in 2012, it is based in Shenzhen, China.
Macrotest raised hundreds of millions of yuan (CNY 100.0M is ~$14.3M) in Series C and C+ funding from BYD Group, Yunjin Capital, Beyond Moore Fund, and others. Macrotest makes semiconductor test equipment including ATE and test boards for high-speed digital, high-voltage and high-current analog, mixed-signal, and RF ICs. Founded in 2018, it is based in Nanjing, China.
UniSiC Technology, also known as Chenxin Technology, closed a CNY 100.0M (~$14.3M) Series A round led by Summitview Capital. UniSiC develops test and analysis systems for silicon carbide (SiC) devices, from SiC wafers to power modules. Alongside test equipment, it offers a SiC CT high-voltage generator, integrated X-ray source, and MRI gradient power amplifier, as well as SiC power modules for applications including automotive and medical devices. Funds will be used for R&D and mass production of test equipment and medical SiC power components. Founded in 2020, it is based in Shanghai, China.
DarwinAI raised $6.0M in financing led by BDC Capital with participation from new and existing investors. DarwinAI provides a visual quality inspection system for PCBs that combines AI with proprietary optics, custom hardware, and a large PCB dataset. “By making it straightforward to deploy inspection units and analyze data, clients can install them in novel locations and enable completely new capabilities such as returned product verification, process auditing and retrospective quality inspection,” said Sheldon Fernandez, CEO of DarwinAI. The new funding will enable the company to make the system more robust for mass market deployment and ramp up hardware production. Founded in 2017, it is based in Waterloo, Canada.
Saimai Measurement and Control drew tens of millions of yuan (CNY 10.0M is ~$1.4M) in pre-Series A funding led by Addor Capital. The company provides testing systems and services for RF and microwave components, frequency source components, frequency conversion components, digital receiver components, RF and microwave signal generation components, RF microwave transceivers, and high bandwidth vector modulation and analysis. Founded in 2021, it is based in Suzhou, China.
MaxOne Semiconductor closed Series D+ funding led by Fosun Capital and Lanhor Capital. MaxOne offers IC wafer test probe cards including 3D MEMS vertical probe cards and RF MEMS vertical probe cards. Funds will be used for R&D and construction of production lines. Based in Suzhou, China, it was founded in 2015.
PIQS received Series B funding led by Guosen Capital and Green Pine Capital Partners. PIQS provides laser profilers and 2D and 3D visual inspection systems for PCBs, consumer electronics, batteries, automotive parts, and other industries. Based in Shenzhen, China, it was founded in 2013.
Eswin Material, a division of Eswin Technology, raised nearly CNY 4,000.0M (~$574.8M) in Series C funding led by China National Building Material, joined by investors including Source Code Capital, Yufu Holding Group, Financial Street Group, Shang Qi Capital, SDIC Venture Capital, Hudson Capital, GF Venture Capital, China Life Private Equity Investment, Zhongji Investment, Puyao Capital, and China Development Bank Capital. Eswin Material produces 12-inch monocrystalline silicon polished wafers and epitaxial wafers. Current monthly production capacity is 300,000 pieces, which is expected to reach 1 million pieces per month at completion of its current expansion. The company says its production capacity has been sold for the next three years. Eswin Technology also makes IoT chips and offers packaging and testing services, including wafer gold bump processing, wafer testing, grinding, cutting, packaging, and final testing. Founded in 2016, it is based in Beijing, China.
PowerEpi drew CNY 150.0M (~$21.5M) in financing led by SDIC Venture Capital and Songshan Lake Materials Laboratory, joined by Leaguer Capital, Shenzhen Capital Group, China Capital Management, and Glory Ventures. The startup manufactures silicon carbide (SiC) epitaxial wafers. Funds will be used for R&D and production capacity expansion. Founded in 2020 to commercialize research from Songshan Lake Materials Laboratory, it is based in Dongguan, China.
Enkris Semiconductor raised hundreds of millions of yuan (CNY 100.0M is ~$14.3M) in Series C financing led by Nio Capital and DragonBall Capital, joined by Xinke Capital, China Renaissance, GoerTek, and 37 Interactive Entertainment. Enkris Semiconductor offers GaN epitaxial materials for power electronics, micro-LED, and microwave RF applications. Its products include GaN-on-Silicon, GaN-on-SiC, GaN-on-Sapphire, and GaN-on-GaN epi wafers in various sizes, including 300mm. Based in Suzhou, China, it was founded in 2012.
Su Chuan Technology raised CNY 100.0M (~$14.3M) in funding. The startup makes ultra-thin flexible glass for flexible and rollable displays, foldable smartphones, and flexible sensors. It is currently focused on 0.03mm, 0.05mm, and 0.07mm glass and plans to offer a range of different fold types. Based in Nantong, China, it was founded in 2020.
Weimai Core Materials drew CNY 100.0M (~$14.3M) in funding from Hefei Industry Investment Group, Beyond Moore Fund, Jinbang Capital, and others. The startup manufactures materials for ArF, KrF, and I-line photoresists, including photoacid generators, photoinitiators, bottom anti-reflective coating (BARC) layers, and zirconium-based precursors. Funds will be used for mass production and R&D. Founded in 2021, it is based in Suzhou, China.
U-MAP raised 700.0M yen (~$5.2M) in funding from Real Tech Holdings, Kyoto University Innovation Capital, Chukyo Yushi, Aichi Capital, Seiko Epson Corporation, and Global Brain Corporation. U-MAP has developed a thermal conductivity additive based on fibrous aluminum nitride single crystals to improve the heat removal performance of ceramics, resin, and rubber materials used in electronics devices, including consumer electronics, automobiles, energy storage, communications, and aerospace. It says its material provides up to 4x the heat conduction capability compared to standard thermal additives with increased tensile strength, reduced brittleness, and extended thermal tolerance. Funds will be used to start mass production. It also plans to start producing aluminum nitride substrates using its material in 2024, followed by high thermal conductivity resin products such as heat dissipation sheets in 2025. A spin out from Nagoya University founded in 2016, it is based in Nagoya, Japan.
Shangxin Jinggong New Material Technology received tens of millions of yuan (CNY 10.0M is ~$1.4M) in funding from Hefei Industry Investment Group and others. The company produces diamond-copper heat sinks for electronic packaging and high-end sputtering targets using spark plasma sintering. It also makes anode target discs for CT machines. Funds will be used for purchasing equipment, R&D, and marketing. Based in Hefei, China, it was founded in 2021.
Hyperion Technology raised Series A+ financing from Topping Capital. The startup manufactures conductive silver pastes, conductive silver glue for semiconductor packaging, and electronic ink for use in flexible circuits and touch displays. Funds will be used to upgrade and expand production lines as well as for R&D and hiring. Founded in 2016, it is based in Beijing, China.
LingGas drew Series B financing from CDB Technology Venture Capital, Guofang Capital, Lianhe Capital, and Stony Creek Capital. The company provides specialty gases for manufacturing ICs, displays, photovoltaics, and optical fibers. Founded in 2018, it is based in Beijing, China.
Hosin Global Electronics raised hundreds of millions of yuan (CNY 100.0M is ~$14.3M) in Series A+ financing from Kunqiao Capital, China Innovative Capital Management, and Guoyuan Innovation Investment, its third round in 2022. Hosin Global offers a range of storage and memory devices, including USB flash drives, eMMC/UFS, DRAM, SPI NAND, SSD, and SD cards. Funds will be used for new product development. Founded in 2018, it is based in Shenzhen, China.
AccuSilicon raised hundreds of millions of yuan (CNY 100.0M is ~$14.3M) in Series F funding from SDIC Venture Capital. The company makes analog and mixed-signal chips, including analog switches for USB Type-C and MIPI D-PHY, overvoltage protection chips, ADC/DAC, DSP, clock driver/amplifier and clock generator chips, crystal oscillators, and integrated modules. It primarily targets smartphones and audio/video equipment, and additionally offers development services. Funds will be used for R&D and hiring. Based in Guangzhou, China, it was founded in 2014.
Silicon Innovation, also known as Dianke Xingtuo, raised over CNY 100.0M (~$14.3M) in pre-Series A financing led by Highlight Capital, joined by Glory Ventures, Rising Investments, and Xingrui Capital. This is the startup’s third round in the space of a year. Silicon Innovation offers analog and mixed-signal chips, including clocks, interfaces, and power management. Among its products is a 10-channel output clock buffer chip that supports the 32Gbps PCIe5.0 specification, a spread spectrum clock generator, and a retimer that also supports PCIe 5.0. It mainly targets the data center and server market. Based in Chengdu, China, it was founded in 2019.
CrossChip MicroSystems raised nearly CNY 100.0M (~$14.3M) in Series A+ financing from Sungrow Power, CDHT Investment, and China Fortune-Tech Capital. CrossChip provides Hall effect sensor, magnetic resistance sensor, current sensor, motor driver, LED driver, and power management chips. Applications include photovoltaic inverters, industrial control, and automotive. Funds will be used for R&D, particularly focusing on development of automotive chips. Founded in 2013, it is based in Chengdu, China.
Chipanalog Microelectronics raised Series C+ financing from SAIC Motor and Shang Qi Capital. The company makes analog and mixed-signal chips including isolation, interfaces, high-performance analog, driver, and power chips for industrial and automotive electronics markets. Based in Shanghai, China, it was founded in 2016.
EpicMEMS, also known as Kaiyuan Communications, raised hundreds of millions of yuan (CNY 100.0M is ~$14.3M) in Series B funding led by Huacheng Venture Capital and Hui Capital, joined by Shunwei Capital, Xiamen Venture Capital, Hua Partners, Shenzhen Venture Capital, and Oriental Fortune Capital. EpicMEMS produces RF front-end BAW filters, receiving modules, antenna solutions, and an integrated module with high-performance filters, duplexers, multiplexers, power amplifiers, RF switches, and low noise amplifiers. It focuses on 4G/5G applications. Funds will be used for marketing, expanding filter products, and developing RF modules. Founded in 2018, it is based in Xiamen, China.
eoSemi raised £2.0M (~$2.4M) in Series A funding led by Capital-E. The company develops high performing digitally compensated TCXOs (temperature compensated crystal oscillators) based on a 65nm pure CMOS process for broadband wireless equipment. “A combination of the silicon technology, careful design, digital compensation schemes and calibration ensures world beating performance” said Steve Cliffe, CEO of eoSemi. “Specifically; industry leading phase noise of 162dBc/Hz, power consumption of 3.6mW, ultra-tight stability of better than 50ppb: with this performance available right across an extended temperature range of -40C to +105C, and in a 2520 package or smaller.” Funds will be used to complete its auto-test solutions required to calibrate TCXOs in volume and begin the commercialization. Founded in 2012, it is based in Congleton, UK.
Comoro Technology drew tens of millions of yuan (CNY 10.0M is ~$1.4M) in angel funding from Leaguer Capital and Lanwan Capital. The startup develops multi-source fusion hardware and software that combines wireless signals with sensors to improve navigation and location sensing in consumer electronics, IoT, and automotive. Funds will be used for R&D and mass production. Based in Shanghai, China, it was founded in 2021.
AccoPower drew hundreds of millions of yuan (CNY 100.0M is ~$14.3M) in Series C funding from Boyuan Capital, Midea Group, CCB Trust, Yuexiu Industrial Investment Fund, Guangdong Yuecai Venture Capital, Geely, Eastern Bell Capital, and China Fellow Partners. AccoPower specializes in automotive-grade IGBTs, MOSFETs, and silicon carbide power devices and modules. Based in Guangzhou, China, it was founded in 2018.
InventChip received hundreds of millions of yuan (CNY 100.0M is ~$14.3M) in pre-Series B funding led by SAIC Motor and Shang Qi Capital, joined by Sungrow Power Supply, AISWEI, Ginlong Technologies, Huaqiang Capital, and Zhejiang Chuangzhi. InventChip specializes in power devices based on silicon carbide, including SiC SBD, SiC MOSFET, CCM totem pole PFC, modules, drivers, and controllers for switched-mode power supply, electronic control, and automotive electronics markets. Funds will be used for fab expansion and R&D. Based in Shanghai, China, it was founded in 2017.
Meisi Semiconductor raised nearly CNY 100.0M (~$14.3M) in Series B funding from Woyan Capital, Yuanhe Holdings, and others. The company develops fast charging chips and AC-DC main control chips for consumer electronics, drones, power tools, and IoT. Based in Suzhou, China, it was founded in 2013.
Eggtronic raised $12.0M in the first close of its Series B funding from Rinkelberg Capital, CDP Venture Capital, and Doorway Venture Capital. It anticipates raising a total of $20.0M in the round. Eggtronic makes mixed-signal controller ICs for power management applications. Funds will be used for mass production of its AC/DC power conversion and wireless power transfer solutions. “Our technologies are proven in the field with millions of units shipped to date and we can now build on that success thanks to the latest investment. The new funds will help us to propel our scale-up, doubling the size of our global team, accelerating our semiconductor development roadmap, and expanding research and engineering resources,” said Eggtronic founder and CEO Igor Spinella. Founded in 2012, it is based in Modena, Italy.
Senmu Leishi Technology raised tens of millions of yuan (CNY 10.0M is ~$1.4M) in funding from Source Code Capital and others. The startup has developed what it calls a programmable power electronics controller (PPEC), which it says can speed development of digital power supplies. It recently released its first chip, a phase-shift full-bridge controller. Its PPEC is also available as boards. The company additionally offers semi-physical simulation of power electronics. Funds will be used for product iteration and market expansion. Based in Wuhan, China, it was founded in 2017.
Yanhuang Guoxin, also known as Trimitec, raised tens of millions of yuan (CNY 10.0M is ~$1.4M) in Series A+ financing from Plum Ventures. The company makes power management chips for high-reliability industries such as aerospace. Its products include rad-hard DC/DC and ultra-low noise LDO. Funds will be used for hiring, strengthening supply chains, and expansion in areas such as commercial aerospace, electric vehicles, and power grids. Based in Beijing, China, it was founded in 2016.
Geener Microelectronics received pre-Series A investment led by Walden International, joined by Gaorong Capital, Vision Knight Capital, and others. The startup produces inverter power modules, automotive-grade IGBT chips and modules, SiC devices, and low-voltage MOSFETs for applications such as new energy vehicles, electric motorcycles, photovoltaics, and energy storage. Funds will be used for R&D, production line construction, and hiring. Founded in 2022, it is based in Hangzhou, China.
HIIC Semi received Series A+ investment from OCT Capital Group. The startup makes power semiconductors with products including high-voltage integrated circuits (HVIC), IGBT, and power MOSFET, as well as MCUs and sensors. Based in Foshan, China, it was founded in 2020.
Siptory received new funding from the Zhonghe Intelligent Automobile Fund. The company makes power electronics including electrostatic discharge protection devices, transient voltage suppressors (TVS), MOSFETs, and power modules. It targets TVs, set-top boxes, and mobile devices. Funds will be used in construction a panel-level fan-out packaging line. Founded in 2014, it is based in Shenzhen, China.
Xscape Photonics received $10.0M in seed funding from Altair. Xscape Photonics develops high efficiency photonic chips for ultra-high bandwidth connections inside data centers and high-performance computing systems. “This investment and collaboration with some of the world’s best innovators in photonics will allow us to stay at the cutting edge of such high-fidelity and advanced technologies that will help our customers solve their problems more efficiently as they look to the next generation of hardware,” said James R. Scapa, founder and chief executive officer, Altair. Based in New York, New York, USA, it was founded in 2022.
Fortsense received hundreds of millions of yuan (CNY 100.0M is ~$14.3M) in Series C1 financing led by Chengdu Science and Technology Venture Capital, joined by BAIC Capital, Huiyou Investment, Shanghai International Group, Shengzhong Investment, and others. The company develops optical sensing chips, including 3D structured light chips for under-screen fingerprint sensors and time-of-flight (ToF) sensors for facial recognition in mobile devices. Funding will be used for development of single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) lidar chips for automotive applications. Founded in 2017, it is based in Shenzhen, China.
PolarisIC raised nearly CNY 100.0M (~$14.3M) in pre-Series A financing from Dami Ventures, Innomed Capital, Legend Capital, Nanshan SEI Investment, and Planck Venture Capital. PolarisIC makes single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) direct time-of-flight (dToF) sensors and photon counting low-light imaging chips for mobile phones, robotic vacuums, drones, industrial sensors, and AGV. Funds will be used for mass production and development of 3D stacking technology and back-illuminated SPAD. Based in Shenzhen, China, it was founded in 2021.
VicoreTek received nearly CNY 100.0M (~$14.3M) in strategic financing led by ASR Microelectronics and joined by Bondshine Capital. The startup develops image processing and sensor fusion chips, AI algorithms, and modules for object avoidance in sweeping robots. It plans to expand to other types of service robots and AR/MR, followed by the automotive market. Funds will be used for R&D and mass production. Founded in 2019, it is based in Nanjing, China.
Greenteg drew CHF 10.0M (~$10.8M) in funding from existing and new investors. The company makes heat flux sensors for applications ranging from photonics, building insulation, and battery characterization to core body temperature measurement in the form factor of wearables. Funds will be used for R&D into medical applications in the wearable market and to scale production capacity. Founded in 2009 as a spin off from ETH Zurich, it is based in Rümlang, Switzerland.
Phlux Technology raised £4.0M (~$4.9M) in seed funding led by Octopus Ventures and joined by Northern Gritstone, Foresight Williams Technology Funds, and QUBIS Innovation Fund. Phlux develops antimony-based infrared sensors for lidar systems. The startup claims its architecture is 10x more sensitive and with 50% more range compared to equivalent sensors. It currently offers a single element sensor that is retrofittable into existing lidar systems and plans to build an integrated subsystem and array modules for a high-performance sensor toolkit. Other applications for the infrared sensors include satellite communications internet, fiber telecoms, autonomous vehicles, gas sensing, and quantum communications. Phlux was also recently awarded an Innovate UK project with QLM Technology to develop a lidar system for monitoring greenhouse gas emissions. A spin out of Sheffield University founded in 2020, it is based in Sheffield, UK.
Microparity raised tens of millions of yuan (CNY 10.0M is ~$1.4M) in pre-Series A+ funding from Summitview Capital. Microparity develops high-performance direct time-of-flight (dToF) single photon detection devices, including single-photon avalanche diodes (SPAD), silicon photomultipliers (SiPM), and SiPM readout ASICs for consumer electronics, lidar, medical imaging, industrial inspection, and other applications. Founded in 2017, it is based in Hangzhou, China.
Yegrand Smart Science & Technology raised pre-Series A financing from Zhejiang Venture Capital. Yegrand Smart develops photon pickup and Doppler lidar equipment for measuring vibration. Founded in 2021, it is based in Hangzhou, China.
Saphlux Semiconductor Technology raised CNY 110.0M (~$15.8M) in Series B funding from Baidu Ventures, Fosun Capital, CasStar, Tong Sheng Capital, and others. Saphlux develops semi-polar gallium nitride (GaN) quantum dot technology that uses nano-pores to improve efficiency of mini and micro-LED displays. Funds will be used for mass production of quantum dot micro-LED chips for public information displays and televisions and micro-display modules for AR/VR applications. A spin out from the Nitride Group at Yale University founded in 2014, it is based in Brantford, Connecticut, USA.
Artizan Optical Crystal received tens of millions of yuan (CNY 10.0M is ~$1.4M) in Series A financing from Dahua Capital. The startup develops holographic optical components such as gratings and waveguides for AR and heads-up displays. Funds will be used for hiring, R&D, and mass production. Founded in 2019, it is based in Shanghai, China.
Einride received $200.0M in Series C funding from AMF, EQT Ventures, Northzone, Polar Structure, Norrsken VC, Temasek Holdings, and others, as well as $300.0M in debt financing from Barclays Europe. Einride offers autonomous, all-electric heavy freight vehicles that can operate on public roads with the assistance of remote operators. Earlier this year, the company completed a pilot with its autonomous vehicle on a U.S. public road without a safety driver. It also offers a platform to manage fleets and shipping routes, including coordinating charging. The funding will be used for new developments and deployments, as well as expanding offerings to new markets. Founded in 2016, it is based in Stockholm, Sweden.
Rhino Auto, also known as Huixi Intelligent Technology, raised over $50.0M in angel funding led by Xiaomi, joined by Cathay Capital, GSR Ventures, Tsinghua Research Capital, Z&Y Capital, and others. The startup is developing AI chips for autonomous driving and ADAS, targeting L2+ and above. It expects its first chip to enter mass production in 2024. Founded in April 2022, it is based in Hefei, China.
SafeAI raised $38.0M in Series B funding from investors including Builders VC, McKinley Management, George Kaiser Family Foundation, Energy Innovation Capital, Autotech Ventures, Brick & Mortar Ventures, Embark Ventures, Newlab, and Vimson Group, with strategic investment from motion control company Moog Inc. SafeAI retrofits construction and mining vehicles with aftermarket hardware and proprietary autonomy software that it claims increases worksite productivity, safety, and cost savings. It says its solution is independent of manufacturer or vehicle type. Funds will be used for hiring and global expansion. Founded in 2018, it is based in Santa Clara, California, USA.
Helm.ai raised $31.0M in Series C financing led by Freeman Group, joined by ACVC Partners, Amplo, and strategic investors Honda Motor, Goodyear Ventures, and Sungwoo Hitech. Helm.ai develops AI software for ADAS and L4 autonomous driving in both commercial and consumer vehicles. Its software covers perception, intent modeling, path planning, and vehicle control and uses an unsupervised learning method using mathematical modeling that the company says allows it to train on large scale datasets quickly and cost-effectively with little to no human intervention. Funds will be used for R&D, productization of its self-driving technologies, and to further execute on commercial engagements in the automotive and robotics sectors. Founded in 2016, it is based in Menlo Park, California, USA, and has raised $78M to date.
Genesys Microelectronics raised hundreds of millions of yuan (CNY 100.0M is ~$14.3M) in angel+ funding led by CICC Capital and Baoding Investment, joined by Ondine Capital and Zhongchen Investment. This follows an angel round in May. Genesys Microelectronics is developing chips for automotive smart cockpits and ADAS. Funds will be used for hiring, R&D, and marketing. Based in Shanghai, China, it was founded as a spin off from Fosun International in January 2022.
Qcraft raised hundreds of millions of yuan (CNY 100.0M is ~$14.3M) in Series B financing from CICC Capital, consumer electronics company TCL, and Genesis Capital. The company provides full stack autonomous driving solutions for urban environments and currently operates a fleet of robobuses in several Chinese cities. It recently launched a L4 robotaxi service in Suzhou. Funds will be used to accelerate mass production of its ADAS products and large-scale implementation of robobuses. Based in Beijing, China, it was founded in 2019.
FABU Technology raised over CNY 100.0M (~$14.3M) in a Series B2 round from the Anhui Provincial Railway Development Fund and Zhejiang University Education Foundation. The startup develops L4 autonomous driving solutions for port operations vehicles. It plans to expand to logistics, public transportation, and other commercial applications. Funds will be used for R&D. Based in Hangzhou, China, it was founded in 2017.
iHorseAI, also known as Liuma Ruichi Technology, drew nearly CNY 100.0M (~$14.3M) in Series A+ financing led by Zhongguancun Development Group. The startup develops ADAS solutions for passenger cars and commercial vehicles, with a focus on automated parking. It provides software, camera module, and controller. Alongside automated and valet parking, it offers a surround view system for commercial and passenger vehicles, commercial vehicle electronic rearview mirror, and driver drowsiness and attention warning system. Funds will be used for R&D and mass production. It also plans to release a solution integrating parking with other assisted driving features. Founded in 2017, it is based in Beijing, China.
PhiGent Robotics raised tens of millions of dollars in Series A+ financing led by Xiang He Capital and joined by Ince Capital. Phigent Robotics develops automotive sensors along with AI-based visual imaging and 3D visual radar technology for autonomous driving and ADAS. The startup has launched a binocular vision radar product, which it says is combined with AI processing to simultaneously obtain basic 3D description information and high-level semantic information. It also plans to deliver autonomous driving solutions covering active safety, high-speed piloting, and other functions, with gradual expansion into higher levels of autonomy such as parking and point-to-point driving to follow. Based in Beijing, China, it was founded in 2021 and has raised nearly $100M to date.
Black Sesame Technologies received strategic funding from Dongfeng Motor. Black Sesame develops SoCs and software for L2-L3 ADAS and autonomous driving. Its chips integrate image signal processor and neural network accelerator. It also offers AI development software and image processing and perception algorithms. Along with the funding, Dongfeng Motor will be using Black Sesame’s A1000 series chips, which can reach 58 TOPS, for L2/L2+ features such as assisted highway driving and automated parking in upcoming electric sedan and electric SUV models. Based in Shanghai, China, it was founded in 2016.
Indie Microelectronics raised CNY 300.0M (~$43.0M) in Series B funding led by Changan Automobile’s Changan Anhe Private Equity Investment Fund, auto parts maker Keboda Technology, Xingyu Automotive Lighting Systems, Sunic Capital, Bank of Communications, and Dongfeng Motor Group, joined by Guolian Securities, Keysida Group, Qianhai Pengchen Investment, and Royal Sea Capital. Indiemicro makes mixed signal automotive SoCs for interior and exterior car lighting control and small motor control applications requiring LIN connectivity. It is also developing products for medical and IoT markets. Founded in 2017, it is based in Wuxi, China.
Arkmicro Technologies raised over CNY 100.0M (~$14.3M) in a Series D round from IPV Capital and Shanshan. Arkmicro develops automotive cockpit SoCs including for digital instrument cluster, image processing for infotainment and streaming media, digital rearview mirror, and Beidou/GPS navigation. Founded in 2000, it is based in Shenzhen, China.
EPowerlabs received €3.0M (~$3.1M) in seed funding led by Lazpiur and joined by Itzarri EPSV, SPRI Group, Easo Ventures, and current investors, along with €2.0M (~$2.1M) in Next Generation EU funds. EPowerlabs makes power electronic modules for electric vehicles, including DC/DC converters, e-motor controllers, battery management systems, and on-board chargers. Funds will be used for hiring and to accelerate the pace to market. Founded in 2019, it is based in San Sebastian, Spain.
MotionSilicon drew tens of millions of yuan (CNY 10.0M is ~$1.4M) in pre-Series A funding from Wuxi Haichuang Investment and Xintou Group, following a round in May. MotionSilicon is developing a range of automotive MCUs and software for applications such as domain controllers, regional controllers, subsystem controllers, and central and regional gateways. Funds will be used for R&D. Based in Wuxi, China, it was founded in 2021.
Senfoto Technology received tens of millions of yuan (CNY 10.0M is ~$1.4M) in Series A funding. The startup makes solid-state lidar chips for automotive and smart city applications. Funds will be used for R&D and manufacturing. Based in Ningbo, China, it was founded in 2018.
Benewake received Series C financing from CCB Investment, Shunwei Capital, FAW Group, Tianqi Private Equity Fund Management, Jiangmen Venture Capital, Sealand Innovation, CETC Fund, FH Capital, and others. Benewake develops solid-state lidar for automotive, roadside applications, and rail transit. Its products include an automotive-grade 512-line lidar to detect smaller objects or objects at greater distance as well as numerous long-range and short-range time-of-flight lidar. Founded in 2015, it is based in Beijing, China.
Leadrive Technology drew Series C+ financing from Shanghai International Group. Leadrive makes high-performance IGBT power modules and main-drive dual-motor controller products for electric vehicles, including heavy-duty vehicles. Funds will be used to accelerate the construction of an IGBT/SiC power module packaging production line. Based in Shenzhen, China, it was founded in 2017.
Group14 Technologies added $214.0M to its Series C round from investors including Microsoft Climate Innovation Fund, Lightrock Climate Impact Fund, Moore Strategic Ventures, Oman Investment Authority, and Molicel, bringing the Series C total to $614.0M. Group14 develops composite materials for lithium-silicon batteries. The company says its micronized silicon-carbon powder for Li-ion battery anodes has five times the capacity and enables up to 50% more energy density compared to conventional graphite. The material can be dropped in to existing manufacturing processes and can either be blended with graphite in anodes or used as a replacement. The funds will be used to build its second commercial-scale factory. It is also planning an additional factory in South Korea as part of a joint venture with SK Group. Founded in 2015, it is based in Woodinville, Washington, USA.
Huachuang New Material raised over CNY 700.0M (~$100.4M) in funding from Addor Capital, CATL, Sunwoda Electronic, Morning Road Capital, Guanyu Technology, Gotion High-tech, and EVE Energy. The company manufactures electrolytic copper foil for lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles, energy storage, and consumer electronics. It currently offers copper foils in 3.5μm-10μm thicknesses. Based in Tongling, China, it was founded in 2016.
Customcells raised €60.0M (~$63.1M) in Series A financing led by World Fund and Abacon Capital, joined by Vsquared Ventures and Porsche. Customcells develops and manufactures application-specific lithium-ion battery cells from prototypes to small and medium series. It primarily focuses on custom batteries for automotive, aerospace, medical instruments, and maritime. It also helps customers plan and commission their own battery production lines. Funds will be used for expansion in the electric aviation market. A spin off from Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft founded in 2012, it is based in Itzehoe, Germany.
ZincFive raised $54.0M in Series D funding led by Helios Climate Ventures, joined by existing investors Senator Investment Group and Standard Investments and new investors including OGCI Climate Investments and Japan Energy Fund. ZincFive develops nickel-zinc batteries for uninterruptible power applications in data centers, mission-critical IT, transportation infrastructure, and industrial engine starting. “ZincFive’s nickel-zinc battery energy storage solutions are powerful, reliable, safe, and highly sustainable, having significantly lower end-to-end climate impact than alternative battery chemistries,” said Jesse Johnson, managing director at Helios Climate Ventures. The funding will boost channel and product development as well as accelerate the build-out of annual high-volume production capacity. Founded in 2016 and based in Tualatin, Oregon, USA, it has raised $139M to date.
LeydenJar Technologies received a €30.0M ($31.7M) loan from the European Investment Bank. LeydenJar produces silicon anodes for lithium-ion batteries using a plasma-based deposition process. It says its technology can increase the energy density of batteries by 70% compared to graphite anode foil and is suitable for fast charging, while reducing CO2 emissions of anode production by 85%. It targets consumer electronics, EVs, and electric flight. The funds will be used to build a new factory with a production capacity of 100 MWh to produce its silicon anode foil at industrial scale. It is expected to be fully operational by 2026. Founded in 2016 as a spin out from research institute TNO, and based in Leiden, the Netherlands, it has raised over $39M.
Element Energy drew $28.0M in Series B funding led by Cohort Ventures and a clean energy generation company, joined by LG Technology Ventures, Edison International, Prelude Ventures, and Radar Partners. Element Energy provides a hardware and software battery management system for large-scale battery installations. Initially focusing on second-life batteries, it plans to expand to first-life energy storage and electric vehicle applications. The company’s technology replaces a traditional power conversion system with a distributed power conversion approach for a more granular level of control. Instead of controlling a MWh-scale battery as a single element with thousands of cells all subjected to the same use profile, it independently controls the power flowing in and out of each module so that second-life batteries aren’t limited by the worst-performing cells. Funding will be used for investment in assets, logistics, and infrastructure related to upcoming utility-scale deployments of second-life EV batteries. Founded in 2019, it is based in Menlo Park, California, USA.
Yipeng Energy Technology received CNY 180.0M (~$25.8M) in financing led by Yingke Capital and Zibo Jingkai Industry Fund. The company manufactures lithium-ion batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles, with a focus on heavy vehicles such as buses, mining trucks, heavy freight vehicles, and construction machinery. It also makes batteries for energy storage systems. Funds will be used to construct a new manufacturing plant and expand sales channels. Founded in 2014, it is based in Huizhou, China.
Ampcera drew $15.0M in Series A funding led by Hanwha Solutions Corporation. Ampcera produces sulfide-based solid electrolyte materials, which it says can enable solid-state batteries with higher energy density, better safety, and faster-charging rates than conventional lithium-ion batteries. “Our sulfide-based solid electrolyte materials demonstrate superior performance with the room temperature ionic conductivity exceeding 12 mS/cm, which is comparable to the flammable liquid electrolyte that is to be replaced by the solid electrolyte,” said Hui Du, Ampcera co-founder and CTO. Funds will be used to scale the production capacity and accelerate the integration of its electrolyte materials in solid-state batteries. Based in Tucson, Arizona, USA, it was founded in 2017.
Keyking Recycling raised hundreds of millions of yuan (CNY 100.0M is ~$14.3M) in Series B funding from Shang Qi Capital, SAIC Capital, Hengxu Capital, Wanxiang 123, Fortune Capital, and Shengli Investment. The company recycles lithium-ion batteries from consumer electronics and electric vehicles to produce battery-grade lithium carbonate. It also processes lithium and nickel-cobalt containing wastes. Funds will be used for construction of new production lines and R&D. Based in Leiyang City, China, it was founded in 2016.
Rongke Power drew hundreds of millions of yuan (CNY 100.0M is ~$14.3M) in Series B funding that included Jinding Capital. The company manufactures all-vanadium redox flow batteries for long-term energy storage. Funds will be used for product upgrades, capacity expansion, and hiring. Rongke Energy is also planning an IPO. Founded in 2008, it is based in Dalian, China.
Zhonghai Energy Storage Technology (ZhongHaiChuNeng) raised hundreds of millions of yuan (CNY 100.0M is ~$14.3M) in pre-Series A and pre-A+ rounds from Sequoia Capital China, Source Code Capital, Matrix Partners China, and Crystal Stream Capital. The startup develops iron-chromium flow batteries for large-scale, long-duration energy storage applications. Funds will be used to expand production capacity and for R&D. Based in Beijing, China, it was founded in 2020.
Zoolnasm Energy Technology, also known as Zhongna Energy, drew over CNY 100.0M (~$14.3M) in pre-Series A funding. The startup is developing sodium-ion batteries and materials. It is targeting energy storage, light electric mobility, EVs, and industrial equipment. Based in Suzhou, China, it was founded in 2021.
StorTera was awarded a £5.0M (~$6.0M) grant from the UK’s Net Zero Innovation Portfolio to develop a long-lasting megawatt scale battery that can operate for up to eight hours. StorTera has developed a single liquid flow battery (SLIQ) that can release energy to the grid at times of reduced renewables generation. The startup says the battery, which uses lithium sulfur, will work for 20 years and be fully recyclable at the end of its lifetime. It aims to use recycled materials such as a by-product of the wood industry and reusing sulfur from oil and gas. Founded in 2013, it is based in Edinburgh, UK.
Rasung New Energy Technology raised CNY 25.0M (~$3.6M) in strategic financing from Tanac Automation. The company makes vacuum drying equipment for lithium-ion batteries. Founded in 2012, it is based in Shenzhen, China.
Nth Cycle was awarded a $2.2M grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. Nth Cycle’s electro-extraction process recovers critical minerals such as cobalt and nickel from discarded lithium-ion batteries, low-grade ores, and mine site waste using only electricity and carbon filters. The resulting mixed hydroxide precipitate (MHP) of nickel and cobalt has more than 98% NiCo content and can be used in production of new lithium-ion batteries. The company also says the electro-extraction process produces much lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to extraction of MHP from ore or traditional recycling processes. Founded in 2017, it is based in Beverly, Massachusetts, USA.
EneRol Nanotechnologies drew tens of millions of yuan (CNY 10.0M is ~$1.4M) in Series A1 funding, following a similar sized round in August 2022. EneRol makes nanofiber separators for supercapacitors and is expanding to separators for other types of energy storage. Funds will be used for expansion of the supercapacitor battery separator production line, as well as the development of separators for sodium-ion batteries and solid-state batteries. Based in Ningbo, China, it was founded in 2016.
Weifang Energy Technology received tens of millions of yuan (CNY 10.0M is ~$1.4M) in funding from Jinding Capital. Weifang Energy develops and produces sodium-ion batteries. The company says its water-based sodium-ion batteries have an energy density of 100-120Wh/kg, an 8000-cycle lifetime, a capacity retention rate of more than 70% at -30°C, and cost 40% less in materials compared to lithium batteries. It is initially targeting markets such as energy storage, communication base stations, two-wheelers/tricycles, and power tools. Founded in 2013, it is based in Shenzhen, China.
e-TRNL Energy drew ₹75.0M (~$0.8M) in pre-seed funding led by Speciale Invest, joined by Micelio Mobility and CIIE.CO. The startup is developing a battery cell structure it says reduces the cell’s internal resistance, providing better energy efficiency, less waste heat, and faster charging. The technology is chemistry agnostic and can be applied across battery applications, including electric mobility in the Indian climate. Founded in 2021, it is based in Mumbai, India.
Horizontal Na Energy, also known as Chaona New Energy, received investment from e-commerce company Meituan. The startup manufactures sodium-ion batteries and materials including cathode, anode, and electrolytes. It targets electric vehicles, including low-speed vehicles, as well as large-scale energy storage. It currently has a pilot line for materials and an experimental line for battery cells. Founded in 2021, it is based in Huzhou, China.
Reach raised $30.0M in Series B funding led by DCVC with participation from Y Combinator, Transform VC, and Collaborative Fund. Reach develops wireless power-at-a-distance technology that uses high-efficiency power-beaming circuits, optimization algorithms, and adaptive electromagnetic surfaces to provide hundreds of watts of power, connect point-to-multipoint, and transmit over tens of meters. It is also developing defense-rated systems to deliver higher power over greater distances. Along with powering IoT devices, it is looking to wirelessly charge electric vehicles and drones. “Reach’s mission is to do for power what Wi-Fi has done for data,” said Chris Davlantes, Reach founder and CEO. “Our industrial-scale wireless power networks augment electrical wiring with a flexible layer that can be reconfigured in a split second, giving devices unprecedented mobility and functionality. This new investment will enable us to deliver our high-performance wireless power solutions to provide versatile and intelligent power distribution worldwide.” Founded in 2015, it is based in Redwood City, California, USA.
Lanxing Software raised tens of millions of yuan (CNY 10.0M is ~$1.4M) in Series A financing from Weizhi Digital Technology and Ivy Capital. The startup provides supply chain planning, optimization, and traceability software for a range of industries, including electronics. Founded in 2020, it is based in Shanghai, China.
LiToSim raised tens of millions of yuan (CNY 10.0M is ~$1.4M) in funding from BYD Group. The startup develops CAE simulation software for applications include aerospace, automotive manufacturing, and electronics. Based in Chongqing, China, it was founded in 2018.
ShineBlink drew millions of yuan (CNY 1.0M is ~$0.1M) in angel funding from Star Venture Capital. The startup makes a low-code IoT development board with sensors, communication modules, SDK, and API. It aims to enable users to quickly develop various IoT hardware devices and corresponding apps. Founded in 2021, it is based in Shenzhen, China.
Mobius Materials received a grant from the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation. The company operates a marketplace to buy and sell excess chips and electronic components. Parts are checked for authenticity and quality. Based in Richmond, Virginia, USA, it was founded in 2020.
| Company | Sector | Subsector | Amount Raised (M, USD) | Funding Type | Headquarters |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eswin Material | Materials | Wafers | $574.80 | Series C | China |
| Einride | ADAS & Autonomy | Freight ADAS/AV | $500.00 | Debt, Series C | Sweden |
| Moore Threads | Chip Design | GPU | $215.50 | Series B | China |
| Group14 Technologies | Batteries | Lithium Silicon | $214.00 | Series C | USA |
| Huachuang New Material | Batteries | Battery Materials | $100.40 | Venture | China |
| Frore Systems | Chip Design | Cooling | $100.00 | Series C | USA |
| Customcells | Batteries | Lithium Ion | $63.10 | Series A | Germany |
| ZincFive | Batteries | Nickel Zinc | $54.00 | Series D | USA |
| Rhino Auto | ADAS & Autonomy | Consumer ADAS/AV | $50.00 | Angel | China |
| Indie Microelectronics | Auto Components | Auto Chips | $43.00 | Series B | China |
| SafeAI | ADAS & Autonomy | Industrial ADAS/AV | $38.00 | Series B | USA |
| NeuReality | AI HW | Data Center AI | $35.00 | Series A | Israel |
| Pragmatic Semiconductor | Manufacturing | Flexible Electronics | $35.00 | Series C | UK |
| LeydenJar Technologies | Batteries | Battery Materials | $31.70 | Debt | Netherlands |
| Helm.ai | ADAS & Autonomy | Consumer ADAS/AV | $31.00 | Series C | USA |
| Reach | Other Tech | Wireless Power | $30.00 | Series B | USA |
| Element Energy | Batteries | Battery Management | $28.00 | Series B | USA |
| Yipeng Energy Technology | Batteries | Lithium Ion | $25.80 | Venture | China |
| 3DSEMI | Packaging | Wafer-Level Packaging | $23.70 | Venture | China |
| EnCharge AI | AI HW | Edge AI, PIM/PNM | $21.70 | Series A | USA |
| PowerEpi | Materials | Wafers | $21.50 | Venture | China |
| Saphlux Semiconductor Technology | Displays & AR/VR | Quantum Dot | $15.80 | Series B | USA |
| Ampcera | Batteries | Battery Materials | $15.00 | Series A | USA |
| Siroywe | Chip Design | GPU | $14.30 | Series A | China |
| Haawking | Chip Design | DSP | $14.30 | Series A+ | China |
| Artosyn | AI HW | Edge AI | $14.30 | Series C | China |
| UniSiC Technology | Equipment | Test Equipment | $14.30 | Series A | China |
| Su Chuan Technology | Materials | Glass | $14.30 | Venture | China |
| Weimai Core Materials | Materials | Photoresist | $14.30 | Venture | China |
| Silicon Innovation | AMS | Clock | $14.30 | Pre-A | China |
| CrossChip MicroSystems | AMS | AMS | $14.30 | Series A+ | China |
| Meisi Semiconductor | Power Semi | Converter | $14.30 | Series B | China |
| PolarisIC | Sensors | Optical Sensor | $14.30 | Pre-A | China |
| VicoreTek | Sensors | Optical Sensor | $14.30 | Strategic | China |
| FABU Technology | ADAS & Autonomy | Freight ADAS/AV | $14.30 | Series B2 | China |
| iHorseAI | ADAS & Autonomy | Consumer ADAS/AV | $14.30 | Series A+ | China |
| Arkmicro Technologies | Auto Components | Cockpit | $14.30 | Series D | China |
| Zoolnasm Energy Technology | Batteries | Sodium Ion | $14.30 | Pre-A | China |
| Dewo Advanced Automation | Equipment | Packaging Equipment | $14.3+ | Series A | China |
| Macrotest | Equipment | Test Equipment | $14.3+ | Series C, C+ | China |
| Enkris Semiconductor | Materials | Wafers | $14.3+ | Series C | China |
| Hosin Global Electronics | Memory & Storage | Storage | $14.3+ | Series A+ | China |
| AccuSilicon | AMS | AMS | $14.3+ | Series F | China |
| EpicMEMS | Wireless | 5G | $14.3+ | Series B | China |
| AccoPower | Power Semi | MOSFET, IGBT, SiC | $14.3+ | Series C | China |
| InventChip | Power Semi | SiC | $14.3+ | Pre-B | China |
| Fortsense | Sensors | Optical Sensor | $14.3+ | Series C1 | China |
| Genesys Microelectronics | ADAS & Autonomy | Cockpit | $14.3+ | Angel+ | China |
| Qcraft | ADAS & Autonomy | Robotaxi | $14.3+ | Series B | China |
| Keyking Recycling | Batteries | Battery Recycling | $14.3+ | Series B | China |
| Rongke Power | Batteries | Flow Battery | $14.3+ | Series B | China |
| Zhonghai Energy Storage Technology | Batteries | Flow Battery | $14.3+ | Pre-A, Pre-A+ | China |
| Eggtronic | Power Semi | Power Management | $12.00 | Series B | Italy |
| Greenteg | Sensors | Thermal Sensor | $10.80 | Venture | Switzerland |
| Quadric | AI HW | GPNPU | $10.00 | Series B | USA |
| Xscape Photonics | Photonics | Networking | $10.00 | Seed | USA |
| PhiGent Robotics | ADAS & Autonomy | Consumer ADAS/AV | $10.0+ | Series A+ | China |
| DarwinAI | Equipment | Inspection | $6.00 | Venture | Canada |
| StorTera | Batteries | Flow Battery | $6.00 | Grant | UK |
| Lidrotec | Equipment | Dicing | $5.30 | Series A | Germany |
| U-MAP | Materials | Thermal | $5.20 | Venture | Japan |
| EPowerlabs | Auto Components | Auto Modules | $5.10 | Seed, Grant | Spain |
| Phlux Technology | Sensors | Lidar | $4.90 | Seed | UK |
| Baum Design Systems | EDA | Power Analysis | $3.90 | Series A | South Korea |
| Rasung New Energy Technology | Batteries | Battery Equipment | $3.60 | Strategic | China |
| Syenta | Equipment | 3D Printing | $2.50 | Seed | Australia |
| eoSemi | Wireless | TCXO | $2.40 | Series A | UK |
| Nth Cycle | Batteries | Battery Recycling | $2.20 | Grant | USA |
| Gona Semiconductor Technology | Equipment | Materials Handling | $1.40 | Venture | China |
| Fluence Technology | Equipment | Laser Equipment | $1.10 | Venture | Poland |
| Goldenscope Tech | Equipment | Inspection | $1.4+ | Series A+ | China |
| KyLitho | Manufacturing | Lithography | $1.4+ | Series A | China |
| Saimai Measurement and Control | Equipment | Test Equipment | $1.4+ | Pre-A | China |
| Shangxin Jinggong New Material Technology | Materials | Thermal | $1.4+ | Venture | China |
| Comoro Technology | Wireless | Navigation | $1.4+ | Angel | China |
| Senmu Leishi Technology | Power Semi | Power Management | $1.4+ | Venture | China |
| Trimitec | Power Semi | Power Management | $1.4+ | Series A+ | China |
| Microparity | Sensors | Optical Sensor | $1.4+ | Pre-A+ | China |
| Artizan Optical Crystal | Displays & AR/VR | Waveguides & Lenses | $1.4+ | Series A | China |
| MotionSilicon | Auto Components | MCU | $1.4+ | Pre-A | China |
| Senfoto Technology | Auto Components | Lidar | $1.4+ | Series A | China |
| EneRol Nanotechnologies | Batteries | Supercapacitor | $1.4+ | Series A1 | China |
| Weifang Energy Technology | Batteries | Sodium Ion | $1.4+ | Venture | China |
| Lanxing Software | Other Tech | Supply Chain | $1.4+ | Venture | China |
| LiToSim | Other Tech | CAD/CAE | $1.4+ | Venture | China |
| e-TRNL Energy | Batteries | Battery Packaging | $0.80 | Pre-Seed | India |
| ShineBlink | Other Tech | IoT | $0.1+ | Angel | China |
| CIX Technology | Chip Design | CPU | Undisclosed | Pre-A+ | China |
| Fortify | Equipment | 3D Printing | Undisclosed | Strategic | USA |
| Laplace Energy Technology | Equipment | CVD | Undisclosed | Venture | China |
| PIQS | Equipment | Inspection | Undisclosed | Series B | China |
| Starmask | Manufacturing | Photomask | Undisclosed | Pre-IPO | China |
| Talents & Technology | Manufacturing | CIM/MES | Undisclosed | Series A | China |
| MaxOne Semiconductor | Test | Probe Cards | Undisclosed | Series D | China |
| Hyperion Technology | Materials | Thermal | Undisclosed | Series A+ | China |
| LingGas | Materials | Gases | Undisclosed | Series B | China |
| Chipanalog Microelectronics | AMS | AMS | Undisclosed | Series C+ | China |
| Geener Microelectronics | Power Semi | MOSFET, IGBT, SiC | Undisclosed | Pre-A | China |
| HIIC Semi | Power Semi | MOSFET, IGBT | Undisclosed | Series A+ | China |
| Siptory | Power Semi | ESD | Undisclosed | Venture | China |
| Yegrand Smart | Sensors | Lidar | Undisclosed | Pre-A | China |
| Black Sesame Technologies | ADAS & Autonomy | Consumer ADAS/AV | Undisclosed | Strategic | China |
| Benewake | Auto Components | Lidar | Undisclosed | Series C | China |
| Leadrive Technology | Auto Components | Auto Modules | Undisclosed | Series C+ | China |
| Horizontal Na Energy | Batteries | Sodium Ion | Undisclosed | Venture | China |
| Mobius Materials | Other Tech | Supply Chain | Undisclosed | Grant | USA |
VC firm Mayfield is partnering with semiconductor hardware startup incubator and accelerator Silicon Catalyst to provide mentoring and invest $150K in the majority of seed stage companies admitted to Silicon Catalyst’s program. It will also evaluate the startups for follow-on investments. “Furthermore, this will allow startups to hit the ground running in conjunction with free shuttle runs, design tools and IP from our more than 60 in-kind partners which include TSMC, Synopsys and ARM,” said Pete Rodriguez, Silicon Catalyst CEO.
FORWARD.one closed its Fund II at €145.0M (~$153.7M). The fund will focus on early-stage European deep tech startups and aims to provide investments between €1-20M, particularly to companies in the Netherlands, Germany, and Scandinavia. Chips, quantum computing, robotics, consumer electronics, smart industry, and climate tech fall within the fund’s target sectors.
Xiopm Holdings received CNY 947.0M (~$135.7M) from Shaanxi Investment Capital and Xi’an Investment Holding. Xiopm Holdings provides incubation and financing to optoelectronic and photonic chip companies, collaborating with the Xi’an Institute of Optics and Precision Mechanics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. It also operates an optoelectronics manufacturing park in Xi’an, China, to help companies move from the design and development stage to experimental test and pilot production.
Baltic Sandbox Ventures raised €10.0M (~$10.7M) for its first fund, which invest in early-stage deep tech and life sciences startups in central and eastern Europe, particularly Lithuania and the Baltics. It will provide funding at accelerator, pre-seed, and seed stages to companies in areas that include nanotechnology, material science, and high-performance computing software. It ultimately targets €13.0M (~$13.8M) for the first fund.
BRV Capital, a tech-focused growth equity arm of BlueRun Ventures, launched a new Mobility Fund to invest in the electric vehicle ecosystem and supply chains. “This expands our network within the EV ecosystem to help enable key component manufacturers and battery producers to accelerate and solidify new supply chain construction,” said Kwan Yoon, CIO of BRV Capital.
The European Union’s EuroHPC Joint Undertaking plans to spend up to €270.0M (~$286.7M) on a project focused on building high-performance computers based on RISC-V hardware and software.
Here are some of the largest rounds of the month for companies using AI in products and services:
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