Robobee
Seed Round in 2022
Robobee is inspired by the biology of a bee and the insect’s hive behavior ... Harvard University aims to push advances in miniature robotics and the design of compact high-energy power sources; spur innovations in ultra-low-power computing and electronic “smart” sensors; and refine coordination algorithms to manage multiple, independent machines. The collaborators envision that the Nature-inspired research could lead to a greater understanding of how to artificially mimic the collective behavior and “intelligence” of a bee colony; foster novel methods for designing and building an electronic surrogate nervous system able to deftly sense and adapt to changing environments; and advance work on the construction of small-scale flying mechanical devices. More broadly, the scientists anticipate the devices will open up a wide range of discoveries and practical innovations, advancing fields ranging from entomology and developmental biology to amorphous computing and electrical engineering. Through a relationship with the Museum of Science, Boston, the team will also create an interactive exhibit to teach and inspire future scientists and engineers.
Gridtential Energy
Convertible Note in 2021
Gridtential Energy, Inc. is a Santa Clara, California-based company that develops and licenses innovative energy storage technologies aimed at enhancing battery performance for manufacturers. Its flagship product, the Silicon Joule battery technology, replaces the traditional metal grid in lead-acid batteries with a silicon substrate, resulting in reduced weight and improved power density comparable to lithium batteries. This technology is applicable across various sectors, including personal mobility devices such as wheelchairs and e-bikes, portable power equipment, and stationary backup solutions like uninterruptible power supplies. By integrating seamlessly into existing battery manufacturing and recycling infrastructures, Gridtential Energy aims to provide low-cost, high-performance energy storage solutions while enhancing battery life, temperature range, and cycling performance. Founded in 2010, the company has established a strategic partnership with Intevac to further its technological advancements.
Crop Enhancement
Series B in 2020
Crop Enhancement LLC is an early-stage specialty materials company based in San Jose, California, founded in 2011. The company focuses on developing innovative anchoring and controlled-release formulation technologies for agricultural chemicals. Its advanced agrochemical formulations utilize environmentally friendly chemistry to enhance crop yields and profitability while minimizing the reliance on synthetic pesticides. Crop Enhancement's products include proprietary films that modify plant surfaces, improving resistance to pests and diseases. This approach not only supports sustainable farming practices but also enables precise delivery of active ingredients and fertilizers, ultimately benefiting growers through increased efficiency and reduced chemical use.
Nature's Fynd
Series B in 2020
Nature's Fynd is a food company that specializes in producing protein from extremophile organisms discovered in geothermal springs. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with an additional office in Bozeman, Montana, the company employs innovative fermentation technology to cultivate its protein. This method significantly reduces the land and water resources typically required for traditional agriculture. Nature's Fynd aims to create foods that not only nourish people but also promote environmental sustainability.
Nature's Fynd
Series A in 2019
Nature's Fynd is a food company that specializes in producing protein from extremophile organisms discovered in geothermal springs. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with an additional office in Bozeman, Montana, the company employs innovative fermentation technology to cultivate its protein. This method significantly reduces the land and water resources typically required for traditional agriculture. Nature's Fynd aims to create foods that not only nourish people but also promote environmental sustainability.
Gridtential Energy
Series B in 2017
Gridtential Energy, Inc. is a Santa Clara, California-based company that develops and licenses innovative energy storage technologies aimed at enhancing battery performance for manufacturers. Its flagship product, the Silicon Joule battery technology, replaces the traditional metal grid in lead-acid batteries with a silicon substrate, resulting in reduced weight and improved power density comparable to lithium batteries. This technology is applicable across various sectors, including personal mobility devices such as wheelchairs and e-bikes, portable power equipment, and stationary backup solutions like uninterruptible power supplies. By integrating seamlessly into existing battery manufacturing and recycling infrastructures, Gridtential Energy aims to provide low-cost, high-performance energy storage solutions while enhancing battery life, temperature range, and cycling performance. Founded in 2010, the company has established a strategic partnership with Intevac to further its technological advancements.
Crop Enhancement
Series B in 2016
Crop Enhancement LLC is an early-stage specialty materials company based in San Jose, California, founded in 2011. The company focuses on developing innovative anchoring and controlled-release formulation technologies for agricultural chemicals. Its advanced agrochemical formulations utilize environmentally friendly chemistry to enhance crop yields and profitability while minimizing the reliance on synthetic pesticides. Crop Enhancement's products include proprietary films that modify plant surfaces, improving resistance to pests and diseases. This approach not only supports sustainable farming practices but also enables precise delivery of active ingredients and fertilizers, ultimately benefiting growers through increased efficiency and reduced chemical use.