Playground Global

Playground Global is an early-stage venture capital firm established in 2015 and based in Palo Alto, California. The firm specializes in supporting technical and scientific founders with strong engineering backgrounds, fostering a collaborative environment that emphasizes deep tech innovation. Playground aims to transform ambitious ideas into impactful businesses that contribute to humanity and the planet. Its investment focus includes next-generation computing, automation, energy transition, and engineered biology. Playground has established itself as a prominent early investor in various companies, including PsiQuantum, Relativity Space, Ultima Genomics, MosaicML, d-Matrix, and Strand Therapeutics.

Jory Bell

General Partner

Brian Burton

Venture Investor

Benjamin Kim

Partner

Bruce Leak

Co-Founder, Founding Partner and General Partner

Phyllis Whiteley

Venture Partner

Peter Barrett

Founder, General Partner and CTO

Past deals in Hardware

Ayar Labs

Series D in 2024
Ayar Labs, Inc. specializes in the development of optical interconnect technology, focusing on high-density electronic-photonic chiplets and lasers designed to enhance data transmission capabilities. Its flagship product, TeraPHY, is a monolithic in-package optical I/O solution that enables high bandwidth, low latency, and power-efficient short-reach interconnects, making it suitable for applications in artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, cloud computing, telecommunications, and aerospace. The company's innovative approach leverages industry-standard silicon processing techniques to create optical interconnect chiplets that replace traditional electrical-based I/O, addressing performance and efficiency challenges in the semiconductor and computing industries. By optimizing data movement within AI systems, Ayar Labs aims to alleviate compute and bandwidth bottlenecks associated with complex large language models, thereby maximizing computational efficiency while minimizing costs and power consumption. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Emeryville, California, Ayar Labs also has an office in Santa Clara, California.

Boxbot

Series A in 2023
Boxbot is a technology company based in Alameda, California, specializing in parcel logistics automation. Its proprietary software and hardware platform enhances package handling by transforming traditional conveyors into three-dimensional systems. This modular solution allows for the efficient storage, sorting, and sequencing of various package sizes while occupying a minimal physical footprint. By integrating robotics and automated systems, Boxbot addresses key operational challenges in last-mile logistics, facilitating faster and more efficient routing of packages within warehouses. The company's innovations aim to reduce costs associated with last-mile delivery, ultimately improving the overall experience for both suppliers and consumers.

Owl Labs

Series C in 2022
Owl Labs Inc. specializes in developing and manufacturing innovative video conferencing technology, aimed at enhancing communication for hybrid and remote teams. Founded in 2014 and based in Somerville, Massachusetts, the company offers a range of products, including the Meeting Owl and Meeting Owl Pro. These smart conference cameras feature 360° views and advanced audio capabilities, allowing them to automatically focus on the speaker during meetings. Owl Labs' products are compatible with popular video conferencing platforms such as Google Hangouts, Skype, and GoToMeeting. The company's mission is to create inclusive and engaging video experiences that facilitate dynamic discussions in modern organizations.

NextSilicon

Series C in 2021
NextSilicon Ltd. is a technology company based in Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel, founded in 2018. It specializes in designing and developing advanced computer processing technology that integrates software-defined hardware. The company offers innovative solutions aimed at enhancing high-performance computing (HPC) architectures, addressing fundamental challenges within the industry. By leveraging novel chip designs and software algorithms, NextSilicon enables businesses to accelerate compute-intensive applications, thereby creating opportunities for innovation in supercomputing. Through its unique approach, NextSilicon seeks to advance the future of computing technology.

Ayar Labs

Series B in 2020
Ayar Labs, Inc. specializes in the development of optical interconnect technology, focusing on high-density electronic-photonic chiplets and lasers designed to enhance data transmission capabilities. Its flagship product, TeraPHY, is a monolithic in-package optical I/O solution that enables high bandwidth, low latency, and power-efficient short-reach interconnects, making it suitable for applications in artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, cloud computing, telecommunications, and aerospace. The company's innovative approach leverages industry-standard silicon processing techniques to create optical interconnect chiplets that replace traditional electrical-based I/O, addressing performance and efficiency challenges in the semiconductor and computing industries. By optimizing data movement within AI systems, Ayar Labs aims to alleviate compute and bandwidth bottlenecks associated with complex large language models, thereby maximizing computational efficiency while minimizing costs and power consumption. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Emeryville, California, Ayar Labs also has an office in Santa Clara, California.

NextSilicon

Series B in 2020
NextSilicon Ltd. is a technology company based in Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel, founded in 2018. It specializes in designing and developing advanced computer processing technology that integrates software-defined hardware. The company offers innovative solutions aimed at enhancing high-performance computing (HPC) architectures, addressing fundamental challenges within the industry. By leveraging novel chip designs and software algorithms, NextSilicon enables businesses to accelerate compute-intensive applications, thereby creating opportunities for innovation in supercomputing. Through its unique approach, NextSilicon seeks to advance the future of computing technology.

PsiQuantum

Series C in 2020
PsiQuantum is focused on developing the first utility-scale quantum computer to address significant global challenges. The company utilizes photonic qubits, which offer substantial advantages for creating a fault-tolerant, general-purpose quantum computer. By leveraging advanced semiconductor manufacturing capabilities, PsiQuantum aims to deliver quantum technology that can foster advancements across various sectors, including climate, healthcare, finance, energy, agriculture, transportation, and communications. This innovative approach positions PsiQuantum to contribute meaningfully to solving real-world problems through enhanced computational capabilities.

NextSilicon

Series A in 2019
NextSilicon Ltd. is a technology company based in Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel, founded in 2018. It specializes in designing and developing advanced computer processing technology that integrates software-defined hardware. The company offers innovative solutions aimed at enhancing high-performance computing (HPC) architectures, addressing fundamental challenges within the industry. By leveraging novel chip designs and software algorithms, NextSilicon enables businesses to accelerate compute-intensive applications, thereby creating opportunities for innovation in supercomputing. Through its unique approach, NextSilicon seeks to advance the future of computing technology.

Owl Labs

Series B in 2019
Owl Labs Inc. specializes in developing and manufacturing innovative video conferencing technology, aimed at enhancing communication for hybrid and remote teams. Founded in 2014 and based in Somerville, Massachusetts, the company offers a range of products, including the Meeting Owl and Meeting Owl Pro. These smart conference cameras feature 360° views and advanced audio capabilities, allowing them to automatically focus on the speaker during meetings. Owl Labs' products are compatible with popular video conferencing platforms such as Google Hangouts, Skype, and GoToMeeting. The company's mission is to create inclusive and engaging video experiences that facilitate dynamic discussions in modern organizations.

Ayar Labs

Series A in 2018
Ayar Labs, Inc. specializes in the development of optical interconnect technology, focusing on high-density electronic-photonic chiplets and lasers designed to enhance data transmission capabilities. Its flagship product, TeraPHY, is a monolithic in-package optical I/O solution that enables high bandwidth, low latency, and power-efficient short-reach interconnects, making it suitable for applications in artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, cloud computing, telecommunications, and aerospace. The company's innovative approach leverages industry-standard silicon processing techniques to create optical interconnect chiplets that replace traditional electrical-based I/O, addressing performance and efficiency challenges in the semiconductor and computing industries. By optimizing data movement within AI systems, Ayar Labs aims to alleviate compute and bandwidth bottlenecks associated with complex large language models, thereby maximizing computational efficiency while minimizing costs and power consumption. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Emeryville, California, Ayar Labs also has an office in Santa Clara, California.

Subpac

Corporate Round in 2018
SUBPAC is a leading company in high-fidelity tactile audio technology, offering innovative solutions that enhance the audio experience across various fields, including music, gaming, virtual reality, cinema, and automotive applications. The company's unique technology transfers low sound frequencies directly to the user's body, providing a new physical dimension to sound. This capability allows creators and licensing partners to optimize their audio for deeper audience engagement. With a presence in major cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Montreal, and London, SUBPAC is supported by a prominent team of investors and strategic partners, including notable figures from the music and sports industries. Their powerful hardware and software platform aims to revolutionize how sound is experienced, making it an essential tool for music producers and creators in various entertainment sectors.

uAvionix

Series B in 2017
uAvionix develops the world’s smallest, lightest and most affordable ADS-B transceivers and transponders, Ping. uAvionix’s Ping network system combines hardware, software, and real-time airspace mapping to enable companies to safely and reliably operate drones in the NAS. Based in Palo Alto, uAvionix has gathered a cross-disciplinary team of experts in embedded RF engineering, sUAS operations and compliance, hardware, software, and cloud services.

Super Heroic

Seed Round in 2017
Super Heroic, Inc. is a company that specializes in the design and manufacture of technology-enabled footwear and apparel for children. Founded in 2016 and based in Oakland, California, Super Heroic aims to empower children through play. Its flagship product, the TMBLR v1 shoe, features a unique design that eliminates laces and sock liners, incorporating a dual-density sole for enhanced flexibility and stability. In addition to footwear, the company has developed an application that helps families find activities, discover and rate playgrounds, participate in healthy challenges, and accurately measure children's feet for proper shoe sizing. Through its innovative products and services, Super Heroic encourages children to engage in active play while ensuring comfort and support.

Owl Labs

Series A in 2017
Owl Labs Inc. specializes in developing and manufacturing innovative video conferencing technology, aimed at enhancing communication for hybrid and remote teams. Founded in 2014 and based in Somerville, Massachusetts, the company offers a range of products, including the Meeting Owl and Meeting Owl Pro. These smart conference cameras feature 360° views and advanced audio capabilities, allowing them to automatically focus on the speaker during meetings. Owl Labs' products are compatible with popular video conferencing platforms such as Google Hangouts, Skype, and GoToMeeting. The company's mission is to create inclusive and engaging video experiences that facilitate dynamic discussions in modern organizations.

ConnectedYard (pHin)

Series A in 2016
pHin combines a bluetooth and WiFi-enabled water monitor along with a mobile app to take the guesswork out of pool and hot tub care. Notifications are sent to the app when water chemistry needs rebalancing, including dosing instructions for the amount of chemicals or pre-measured, single-dose, color-coded pods to add. The pHin Mobile App also provides one-touch, on-demand access to the Pool Service on Demand network of pre-qualified pool service technicians. pHin is the first product from ConnectedYard Inc.headquartered in Campbell, Calif, which is dedicated to being the center of the connected backyard. Beginning with pool and hot tub care, our smart technology will expand to include irrigation, lighting, and every component involved in outdoor living. Our goal is to bring intelligence, simplicity and fun to the backyard.

Subpac

Series A in 2016
SUBPAC is a leading company in high-fidelity tactile audio technology, offering innovative solutions that enhance the audio experience across various fields, including music, gaming, virtual reality, cinema, and automotive applications. The company's unique technology transfers low sound frequencies directly to the user's body, providing a new physical dimension to sound. This capability allows creators and licensing partners to optimize their audio for deeper audience engagement. With a presence in major cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Montreal, and London, SUBPAC is supported by a prominent team of investors and strategic partners, including notable figures from the music and sports industries. Their powerful hardware and software platform aims to revolutionize how sound is experienced, making it an essential tool for music producers and creators in various entertainment sectors.

PsiQuantum

Series A in 2016
PsiQuantum is focused on developing the first utility-scale quantum computer to address significant global challenges. The company utilizes photonic qubits, which offer substantial advantages for creating a fault-tolerant, general-purpose quantum computer. By leveraging advanced semiconductor manufacturing capabilities, PsiQuantum aims to deliver quantum technology that can foster advancements across various sectors, including climate, healthcare, finance, energy, agriculture, transportation, and communications. This innovative approach positions PsiQuantum to contribute meaningfully to solving real-world problems through enhanced computational capabilities.

uAvionix

Series A in 2016
uAvionix develops the world’s smallest, lightest and most affordable ADS-B transceivers and transponders, Ping. uAvionix’s Ping network system combines hardware, software, and real-time airspace mapping to enable companies to safely and reliably operate drones in the NAS. Based in Palo Alto, uAvionix has gathered a cross-disciplinary team of experts in embedded RF engineering, sUAS operations and compliance, hardware, software, and cloud services.

Keyssa

Series C in 2016
Keyssa specializes in developing and manufacturing contactless solid-state devices and connectors, offering innovative solutions for various applications, including mobile phones, displays, automotive systems, robotic surgery, factory automation, and data centers. The company has created Kiss Connectivity, a compact solid-state system that enables simple, secure, and instantaneous data transfer between devices in close proximity. This technology eliminates the need for metal connectors, cables, and reliance on wireless networks, addressing the challenges faced by traditional connection methods. Keyssa's unique connectors utilize extremely high frequency (EHF) signals for secure information transmission, leveraging advancements in mechanical design, electromagnetics, materials science, and semiconductor technologies. As a result, product designers can create new classes of devices without the constraints of conventional wired or wireless connectivity.

ConnectedYard (pHin)

Seed Round in 2015
pHin combines a bluetooth and WiFi-enabled water monitor along with a mobile app to take the guesswork out of pool and hot tub care. Notifications are sent to the app when water chemistry needs rebalancing, including dosing instructions for the amount of chemicals or pre-measured, single-dose, color-coded pods to add. The pHin Mobile App also provides one-touch, on-demand access to the Pool Service on Demand network of pre-qualified pool service technicians. pHin is the first product from ConnectedYard Inc.headquartered in Campbell, Calif, which is dedicated to being the center of the connected backyard. Beginning with pool and hot tub care, our smart technology will expand to include irrigation, lighting, and every component involved in outdoor living. Our goal is to bring intelligence, simplicity and fun to the backyard.

Owl Labs

Seed Round in 2015
Owl Labs Inc. specializes in developing and manufacturing innovative video conferencing technology, aimed at enhancing communication for hybrid and remote teams. Founded in 2014 and based in Somerville, Massachusetts, the company offers a range of products, including the Meeting Owl and Meeting Owl Pro. These smart conference cameras feature 360° views and advanced audio capabilities, allowing them to automatically focus on the speaker during meetings. Owl Labs' products are compatible with popular video conferencing platforms such as Google Hangouts, Skype, and GoToMeeting. The company's mission is to create inclusive and engaging video experiences that facilitate dynamic discussions in modern organizations.
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