ABB

ABB is a global leader in power and automation technologies, offering a diverse range of products and services aimed at enhancing efficiency and sustainability across various industries. The company specializes in areas such as electrification, robotics, and industrial automation, serving electric, gas, and water utilities, as well as commercial and industrial customers. ABB operates through multiple divisions, including Power Products, Power Systems, Discrete Automation and Motion, Low Voltage Products, and Process Automation. Its innovations encompass high-voltage direct current transmission equipment, solar inverters, and wireless technologies for critical industrial applications. Furthermore, ABB Technology Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of the company, invests in emerging technologies across sectors like renewable energy and cybersecurity, fostering advancements in industrial digitalization. With a presence in approximately 100 countries, ABB is strategically positioned to contribute to a more sustainable and resource-efficient future.

Franziska Bossart

Investor

Marcus Gieraths

Group Vice President, M&A

Craig McDonnell

Business Line Managing Director

Mads Moeller

Head of Ventures Electrification, Group VP

Mike Mustapha

President

Sridhar Tyagavalli

CFO

Morten Wierod

CEO

Chao Wu

Principal at ABB Technology Ventures

Past deals in Industrial Automation

BrainBox AI

Venture Round in 2023
BrainBox AI Inc. is a Montreal-based company that specializes in developing artificial intelligence solutions for building automation, particularly focusing on optimizing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Founded in 2017, the company has created an AI-driven automapping tool that identifies HVAC control points and utilizes generated data to offer predictive maintenance modules. These modules assist building operators with fault detection diagnostics, thereby enhancing energy efficiency. By employing self-adaptive AI, deep learning, and cloud-based computing, BrainBox AI aims to proactively optimize energy consumption in buildings, leading to significant cost savings for clients while also contributing to reduced carbon emissions. The team consists of experts in AI, data science, real estate, HVAC, and energy efficiency, positioning the company as a leader in the green building revolution.

Automata

Series B in 2022
Automata is a deep-tech company based in London, England, that focuses on making robotic automation accessible and straightforward for various sectors, including manufacturing, education, and research. Founded in 2015, the company has developed Eva, a lightweight and affordable robotic arm designed for professionals. This versatile tool can be utilized in production lines, laboratories, home workshops, or classrooms. Automata's web-based software platform allows users, regardless of their technical expertise, to program the robot easily and reconfigure it for different tasks from any device, at any time. The company's mission is to empower individuals and organizations with the ability to automate physical work, enhancing efficiency and productivity.

SevenSense

Series A in 2021
Sevensense Robotics AG, founded in 2018 and based in Zurich, Switzerland, specializes in developing integrated software and hardware solutions that enable robots to autonomously navigate dynamic environments shared with humans. The company offers a unique autonomy kit designed for mobile robots operating in complex indoor and outdoor settings. Central to its technology is the Alphasense Core, a multi-camera sensor that captures high-quality data essential for the subsequent layers of the system. The Alphasense Position utilizes this data to determine the robot's precise location, while the Alphasense Autonomy layer leverages this localization information to facilitate safe navigation and obstacle avoidance.

BrainBox AI

Series A in 2021
BrainBox AI Inc. is a Montreal-based company that specializes in developing artificial intelligence solutions for building automation, particularly focusing on optimizing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Founded in 2017, the company has created an AI-driven automapping tool that identifies HVAC control points and utilizes generated data to offer predictive maintenance modules. These modules assist building operators with fault detection diagnostics, thereby enhancing energy efficiency. By employing self-adaptive AI, deep learning, and cloud-based computing, BrainBox AI aims to proactively optimize energy consumption in buildings, leading to significant cost savings for clients while also contributing to reduced carbon emissions. The team consists of experts in AI, data science, real estate, HVAC, and energy efficiency, positioning the company as a leader in the green building revolution.

ASTI Mobile Robotics

Acquisition in 2021
ASTI Mobile Robotics SA, based in Burgos, Spain, specializes in designing, engineering, manufacturing, and maintaining automated intralogistics solutions. The company primarily focuses on automated guided vehicles (AGVs) that facilitate the movement of materials and products within factories and warehouses. With a diverse product portfolio, ASTI Mobile Robotics offers various AGVs, including towing vehicles, goods-to-person systems, unit carriers, and box movers. Additionally, the company provides traditional materials handling equipment, automated storage systems, and software solutions for vehicle navigation, fleet management, and data traceability. ASTI Mobile Robotics also delivers support services, such as engineering assistance, simulations, customized interface development, and maintenance. Founded in 1982, the company plays a key role in enhancing operational efficiency across industries such as automotive, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and aerospace.

Oxipital AI

Series B in 2021
Soft Robotics Inc., founded in 2012 and based in Bedford, Massachusetts, specializes in designing, manufacturing, and marketing robotic grippers and control systems. These advanced tools enable the manipulation of items with varying sizes, shapes, and weights, making them suitable for diverse applications in packaging, supply chain, and industrial settings. The company's innovative soft robotic technology, protected by over 40 patents, addresses the challenges of automation by offering high adaptability and reducing system complexity and costs. Their grippers are capable of handling a wide range of objects—from food products to consumer goods—without the need for tool or software changes between tasks. This versatility allows for efficient operations in industries such as food and beverage, medical devices, and e-commerce. Soft Robotics' systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing industrial robots and vision systems, providing solutions that enhance productivity and optimize efficiency in high SKU processing and packaging environments. The company aims to unlock the future of automation with its cutting-edge technology that combines speed, precision, and adaptability.

Codian Robotics

Acquisition in 2020
Codian Robotics specializes in the development and manufacturing of delta robots designed for various industrial applications, including agriculture, electronics, packaging, and pharmaceuticals. The company provides flexible, low-maintenance robots that feature open mechanics, allowing them to integrate seamlessly with any machine control platform. This adaptability enables the robots to perform tasks with high speed and precision, significantly reducing downtime and operational costs. By offering tailored solutions, Codian Robotics allows its customers, including machine builders and robot integrators, to concentrate on their core business of developing and selling applications, while benefiting from advanced automation technology that enhances efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Atom Power

Series B in 2020
Atom Power, Inc. is a manufacturer based in Charlotte, North Carolina, that specializes in intelligent electrical infrastructure solutions for the commercial power industry. Founded in 2014, the company produces a range of products designed to manage electricity flow and enhance safety. Its offerings include the Atom Switch, a circuit breaker that safeguards against electrical surges; the Atom Panel, a distribution panel that organizes electrical distribution; and Atom OS, a software platform that allows for comprehensive control and customization of electrical systems. Through its innovative technology, Atom Power aims to improve the efficiency and safety of electrical management in commercial and industrial settings.

Cylon Controls

Acquisition in 2020
Cylon Controls Limited specializes in designing and manufacturing building energy management systems (BEMS) aimed at enhancing energy efficiency for various types of buildings. Founded in 1985 and based in Dublin, Ireland, the company offers a range of products, including the Cylon Active Energy SaaS product, which provides real-time energy monitoring, and the Cylon Energy Solution, a cloud-based tool for energy measurement and optimization. Additionally, Cylon Active Energy Manager is designed to work with existing BEMS or metering solutions. The company's offerings also include a suite of controllers and tools for HVAC and lighting management, along with energy training services. Cylon serves a diverse clientele, including commercial offices, retail centers, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and hotels across Europe, North America, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Cylon Controls operates as a subsidiary of ABB Ltd.

IMSystems

Convertible Note in 2019
IMSystems introduces the new standard in high-performance gearbox technology: the Archimedes Drive. We have finally been able to get rid of the gear teeth and beat the traction drive paradox. This enables us to deliver precisely the right force at precisely the right place using our patented Flexroller technology. The Archimedes Drive is available in ratios up to 10,000:1 - almost 100 times it's nearest competition. We can deliver high torque in a fraction of the volume of other speed reducer technologies, and do it with precision approaching 1 arc-second. Simply put, our drive technology is lighter, stronger, more efficient, more scalable and lower cost than any competing drive technology. Our goal is nothing less than to cause a revolution in the robotics industry.

Automata

Series A in 2019
Automata is a deep-tech company based in London, England, that focuses on making robotic automation accessible and straightforward for various sectors, including manufacturing, education, and research. Founded in 2015, the company has developed Eva, a lightweight and affordable robotic arm designed for professionals. This versatile tool can be utilized in production lines, laboratories, home workshops, or classrooms. Automata's web-based software platform allows users, regardless of their technical expertise, to program the robot easily and reconfigure it for different tasks from any device, at any time. The company's mission is to empower individuals and organizations with the ability to automate physical work, enhancing efficiency and productivity.

Element

Series A in 2018
Element Analytics, Inc. is a developer of industrial analytics software that transforms raw data into actionable insights for organizations. The company offers two main products: Element AssetHub and Element Unify. Element AssetHub integrates operational historian data with existing industrial systems, effectively managing the complexity and volume of real-time industrial data. Element Unify aligns information technology and operational technology by contextualizing industrial IoT data. The platform enables data and operations teams to automate data preparation, allowing for proactive decision-making and insights. Element Analytics' solutions focus on data standardization, contextualization, and assurance of data trust, as well as providing descriptive, diagnostic, and predictive analytics. The company, which was incorporated in 2014 and rebranded from Servature, Inc. in 2015, is based in San Francisco, California.

Atom Power

Series A in 2017
Atom Power, Inc. is a manufacturer based in Charlotte, North Carolina, that specializes in intelligent electrical infrastructure solutions for the commercial power industry. Founded in 2014, the company produces a range of products designed to manage electricity flow and enhance safety. Its offerings include the Atom Switch, a circuit breaker that safeguards against electrical surges; the Atom Panel, a distribution panel that organizes electrical distribution; and Atom OS, a software platform that allows for comprehensive control and customization of electrical systems. Through its innovative technology, Atom Power aims to improve the efficiency and safety of electrical management in commercial and industrial settings.

GE Industrial Solutions

Acquisition in 2017
GE Industrial Solutions, rooted in a legacy that dates back 130 years to founder Thomas Edison, specializes in designing and manufacturing electrical circuits for a diverse range of industries, including commercial, healthcare, mining, and telecommunications. The company offers a comprehensive array of products such as automatic transfer switches, power systems, surge protective devices, switch gears, relays, terminal blocks, motor controls, circuit breakers, and transformers. In addition to its product offerings, GE Industrial Solutions provides essential services such as defective parts repair, emergency repairs, project management, and on-site management, ensuring that customers in over 60 countries can effectively address their electrical distribution and power challenges. The commitment of its engineers and employees to innovation and customer support continues to drive the company forward.

Bonsai

Series A in 2017
Bonsai offers an AI platform that empowers enterprises to build and deploy intelligent systems. By completely automating the management of complex machine learning libraries and algorithms, Bonsai enables enterprises to program AI models that improve system control and enhance real-time decision support. Businesses use these models today to increase automation and improve operational efficiency of industrial systems including robotics, manufacturing, supply chain, logistics, energy and utilities. Based in Berkeley, CA, Bonsai is backed by leading investors including NEA, Microsoft Ventures, ABB, Samsung NEXT and Siemens.

B&R Industrial Automation

Acquisition in 2017
The pioneering spirit of company founders Erwin Bernecker and Josef Rainer – and their vision of contributing something exceptional to the automation industry – sparked a fire that continues to shape their company to this day. Keen foresight and entrepreneurial courage helped B&R rise quickly into the ranks of top global players in industrial automation. An intuitive sense of market dynamics and emerging trends has established us as a pioneer, leading the way with the most innovative technology on the market. Looking forward, they aim to further strengthen their position globally and continue their impressive record of sustained growth.

NUB3D

Acquisition in 2017
NUB3D, s.l. specializes in the development, production, and distribution of optical measurement systems utilizing white light technology. The company provides a range of products including three-dimensional digitizing systems, such as TripleArt, which is designed for quality control, reverse engineering, and rapid prototyping. NUB3D also offers SIDIOPro, a sensor tailored for small and medium enterprises in product development cycles, along with TRIPLE v2.1 software for managing sensor data and point clouds. Additional offerings include software solutions for museums and cultural organizations, as well as services for digitizing, reproduction, scientific documentation, and training. NUB3D distributes its products through a network of distributors across several countries, including China, Taiwan, the United States, India, Thailand, and Turkey. Established in 1999 and headquartered in Barcelona, Spain, NUB3D operates as a subsidiary of ABB Ltd.

Atom Power

Series A in 2017
Atom Power, Inc. is a manufacturer based in Charlotte, North Carolina, that specializes in intelligent electrical infrastructure solutions for the commercial power industry. Founded in 2014, the company produces a range of products designed to manage electricity flow and enhance safety. Its offerings include the Atom Switch, a circuit breaker that safeguards against electrical surges; the Atom Panel, a distribution panel that organizes electrical distribution; and Atom OS, a software platform that allows for comprehensive control and customization of electrical systems. Through its innovative technology, Atom Power aims to improve the efficiency and safety of electrical management in commercial and industrial settings.

SVIA

Acquisition in 2016
SVIA’s mission is to help manufacturing industries to produce more efficient by deliver superior standardized automation solutions.

Automata

Seed Round in 2016
Automata is a deep-tech company based in London, England, that focuses on making robotic automation accessible and straightforward for various sectors, including manufacturing, education, and research. Founded in 2015, the company has developed Eva, a lightweight and affordable robotic arm designed for professionals. This versatile tool can be utilized in production lines, laboratories, home workshops, or classrooms. Automata's web-based software platform allows users, regardless of their technical expertise, to program the robot easily and reconfigure it for different tasks from any device, at any time. The company's mission is to empower individuals and organizations with the ability to automate physical work, enhancing efficiency and productivity.

Oxipital AI

Series A in 2015
Soft Robotics Inc., founded in 2012 and based in Bedford, Massachusetts, specializes in designing, manufacturing, and marketing robotic grippers and control systems. These advanced tools enable the manipulation of items with varying sizes, shapes, and weights, making them suitable for diverse applications in packaging, supply chain, and industrial settings. The company's innovative soft robotic technology, protected by over 40 patents, addresses the challenges of automation by offering high adaptability and reducing system complexity and costs. Their grippers are capable of handling a wide range of objects—from food products to consumer goods—without the need for tool or software changes between tasks. This versatility allows for efficient operations in industries such as food and beverage, medical devices, and e-commerce. Soft Robotics' systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing industrial robots and vision systems, providing solutions that enhance productivity and optimize efficiency in high SKU processing and packaging environments. The company aims to unlock the future of automation with its cutting-edge technology that combines speed, precision, and adaptability.

Gomtec

Acquisition in 2015
Gomtec specializes in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of mechatronic systems and robots. The company integrates various engineering disciplines, including mechanical, electrical, telecommunications, control, and computer engineering, to create innovative solutions. By combining these technologies, Gomtec aims to address diverse applications in automation and robotics, enhancing efficiency and performance across multiple sectors.

Spirit IT

Acquisition in 2014
Spirit IT b.v. specializes in providing automation products and technical services tailored for the oil and gas industry. The company develops and sells a range of solutions, including flow computers and software platforms designed for automating oil and gas measurement systems. Their key offerings include Flow-X flow computers, eXLerate for automating custody transfer metering stations and calibration facilities, Flow-Xpert for essential custody transfer calculations, and eXLent, a web-based platform for managing flow computers and measurement data. Spirit IT's solutions support various applications, including well-pad automation, transportation, and custody transfer, enabling end users and system integrators to efficiently create and manage metering solutions.

Grabit Inc.

Series A in 2013
Grabit, Inc. specializes in electroadhesion-based gripping technology, offering innovative solutions for robotics and material handling across various industries. The company’s products include Stackit, an automated robot for stacking materials like leathers and composites; Meterit, a gravity-fed conveyor enhanced with electroadhesive film; and Conveyit, an electroadhesive belt system designed for automated sorting and delayering. Grabit serves a diverse clientele, including Fortune 500 companies in sectors such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and logistics. Founded in 2011 and based in Sunnyvale, California, Grabit was established by a principal inventor of electroadhesion technology, which is known for its low power consumption and high efficiency. However, on December 18, 2019, the company filed for reorganization under Chapter 11 in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware.

ELBI Elektrik

Acquisition in 2013
ELBI Elektrik designs and manufactures electrical wiring accessory products for the Turkish market, and exports to Eastern Europe with its own local sales organization.

Newron System

Acquisition in 2013
Newron System develops software for building-automation solutions and sells it via high-end distributors and installers.

DynaMotive

Acquisition in 2013
DynaMotive Ltd. specializes in engineering design and services, focusing on the installation and upgrading of drive systems, controls, and motors for various sectors, including industrial and marine applications. The company provides a range of solutions, from turnkey project management to system upgrades and ongoing maintenance support. DynaMotive aims to be the preferred supplier for its clients by offering bespoke solutions that allow customers to rely on a single-source provider for their critical operational needs. Its commitment to quality and service positions DynaMotive as a key player in ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of complex systems across multiple industries.

APS Technology Group

Acquisition in 2013
APS is a global supplier of vision based automation solutions that identify containers, trucks, rail equipment, and other transport assets for ports and intermodal container facilities. These systems help container terminals, port authorities and shipping lines to streamline their operations by automating manual processes within gate, vessel, rail and yard operations.

GRESIN

Acquisition in 2012
Gresin Grupo Estudios Industriales is a company that specializes in refurbishment solutions for mechanical presses and the manufacturing of press equipment. The firm focuses on press automation refurbishments and technology enhancements, providing a range of services that include designing sub-assemblies, retrofitting existing machinery, and creating custom machines and benches tailored to specific customer needs. Through its expertise, Gresin aims to enhance the efficiency and performance of press systems across various industrial applications.

Industrial Defender

Series B in 2012
Industrial Defender Inc. specializes in cybersecurity, compliance, and change management solutions for industrial control systems across various sectors, including electric utilities, chemical processing, transportation, water, and oil and gas. The company offers a comprehensive suite of products, such as the Automation Systems Manager, which encompasses asset management, security event management, configuration management, and compliance reporting. Additionally, it provides tools like the Network Intrusion Detection System for threat defense, Access Manager for authentication, and Compliance Manager for meeting regulatory requirements. Industrial Defender also delivers deployment, system monitoring, and backup services. With over 400 clients in 21 countries, the company is recognized as a leader in automation system management, helping organizations enhance operational reliability and reduce risks. Founded in 1996 and based in Foxborough, Massachusetts, Industrial Defender was previously known as Verano, Inc. before rebranding in 2007.

Newave Energy Holding

Acquisition in 2011
Newave Energy Holding engages in the development, manufacture, and sale of uninterruptible power supply (UPS) products.

Powercorp

Acquisition in 2011
Powercorp specializes in automation and intelligent control solutions aimed at optimizing renewable energy generation in isolated grids. The company focuses on integrating renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, into diesel-powered grids to enhance power quality and stability while reducing emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. Its technologies manage the balance between energy generation and consumption, enabling utility-grade power quality. Additionally, Powercorp provides systems that dynamically store and release energy to address frequency and voltage fluctuations, ensuring the stability of small or remote grids. Through its innovative applications, Powercorp contributes to more sustainable energy management in isolated environments.

Power Assure

Series B in 2011
Power Assure develops and delivers business automation software that reduces energy use and carbon emissions in commercial, corporate, and government data centers. The company's software platform intelligently manages data center server capacity in real time, maintaining required service levels at optimum efficiency and lowest total cost.

Baldor Electric

Acquisition in 2011
Baldor Electric is a manufacturer specializing in mechanical power transmission equipment and industrial electric motors. The company offers a range of products, including electric motors, mechanical power transmission solutions, drives, and generators. As part of a larger global technology group, Baldor Electric plays a significant role in enhancing performance across various industries while also focusing on reducing environmental impact. Its diverse product lineup serves utility, industry, and transportation sectors, contributing to improved operational efficiency for its customers.

Power Assure

Venture Round in 2010
Power Assure develops and delivers business automation software that reduces energy use and carbon emissions in commercial, corporate, and government data centers. The company's software platform intelligently manages data center server capacity in real time, maintaining required service levels at optimum efficiency and lowest total cost.
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