SoftBank Investment Advisers

SoftBank Investment Advisers is a venture capital firm established in 2017 and headquartered in London, United Kingdom. It operates as a subsidiary of SoftBank Group Corp. and specializes in growth capital and late-stage investments predominantly within the technology sector. The firm focuses on a diverse array of industries, including internet-of-things, artificial intelligence, robotics, telecommunications, computational biology, fintech, and digital financial services. With a preference for global investments, particularly in the United States, SoftBank Investment Advisers typically commits a minimum of $100 million to both minority and majority stakes in private and public companies. The firm is known for offering operational expertise and leveraging a vast global network, aiming to support innovative companies that have the potential to revolutionize their respective fields. It maintains additional offices in key locations such as Tokyo, San Francisco, and Singapore.

Karim Abouzahr

Director, SoftBank Europe Ventures

Lee Bocker

COO

John Cassidy

Investment Director, Life Sciences and HealthTech

Tom Cheung

Partner, Americas

Rodrigo Costa

Partner

Serena Dayal

Investment Director

Angela Du

Investor

Colin Fan

Managing Partner, Americas, Asia

Ted Fike

Director, Americas

Ronald Fisher

Executive Vice Chairman

Eric Gan

Executive Vice President

Navneet Govil

Managing Partner, CFO

Ayush Jain

Investment Vice President

Lydia Jett

Partner

Sumer Juneja

Partner and Head of India

Robert Kaplan

Investment Director

Hiroaki Kitano

SVP

Anna Lo

Director, Americas

Amit Lubovsky

Director, Americas

Jimi Macdonald

Director

Ken Miyauchi

Representative Director and Senior Executive Vice President

Greg Moon

Managing Partner, Asia

Akshay Naheta

Partner, EMEA

Karol Niewiadomski

Partner

Shu Nyatta

Managing Partner

Max Ohrstrand

Partner, EMEA

Vikas Parekh

Partner

Yanni Pipilis

Managing Partner

Narendra Rathi

Director, Asia

Saleh Romeih

Managing Partner, Investment Committee Member, SBIA, EMEA

David Thevenon

Partner

Ram Trichur

Partner

Ervin Tu

Partner, Americas

Munish Varma

Partner, EMEA, Asia

Aaron Wong

Vice President

Andrew Zloto

Investment Director

Tim Yap

Director, EMEA

Vishal Gupta

Director

Past deals in Robotics

Stack AV

Venture Round in 2023
Stack AV operates in the transportation industry that develops advanced autonomous systems. Stack's autonomous technology integrates state-of-the-art advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning, and cloud technologies. This integration empowers us to develop groundbreaking solutions tailored to the evolving demands and obstacles within the trucking industry.

Jaka Robot

Series D in 2022
Jaka Robot is a Shanghai-based company that specializes in the development, engineering, manufacturing, and marketing of industrial robots. Founded in 2014, the company offers a range of products, including the JAKA ZuTM robot, which features a wireless control system compatible with mobile applications. Additionally, Jaka Robot provides JAKA MES for information integration across various factory departments, along with conveyor systems, palletizing robot systems, and liner molding machines. Its clientele spans multiple sectors, including food and beverage, chemical, packaging, electronics, and mechanical processing industries.

RightHand Robotics

Series C in 2022
RightHand Robotics, Inc. specializes in the manufacturing of robotic order-picking systems designed to enhance supply chain logistics and order fulfillment across various industries, including e-commerce, food handling, and flexible manufacturing. Founded in 2015, the company is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with an additional office in Frankfurt, Germany. RightHand Robotics offers innovative solutions like the ReFlex SF, which features a 3D-printed palm equipped with advanced servos and compliant fingers, and the ReFlex TakkTile, a tactile sensor that aids in gentle object handling. Their technology enables robots to automatically grasp a wide range of items from bins and cases without the need for extensive data entry or parameter tuning, making their systems cost-effective and adaptable to changing business needs.

Fourier Intelligence

Series D in 2022
Fourier Intelligence is a Shanghai-based technology and design company specializing in exoskeleton robotics for rehabilitation and orthotic solutions. The company develops advanced robotic products, including upper-limb rehabilitation devices and lower-limb exoskeletons, aimed at helping individuals with disabilities regain mobility and independence. Its innovations not only assist users in overcoming physical limitations but also enhance productivity by reducing fatigue and enabling the safe transportation of heavy objects in various sectors, particularly healthcare and rehabilitation. Fourier Intelligence's versatile robotic technologies, such as the Humanoid GR-1, are designed to improve efficiency and safety for users, promoting significant advancements in the field of rehabilitation.

Youibot

Series B in 2021
Youibot has researched and developed autonomous mobile robot platform independently, based on the latest generation of laser radar and visual real-time SLAM map creation and navigation technology. Equipped with indoor and outdoor robot navigation systems with core technology advantages, Youibot provides domestic first-class intelligent mobile robot systems and highly competitive industry solutions.

Robotic Research

Series A in 2021
Robotic Research, LLC, is a small engineering firm founded by Alberto Lacaze and Karl Murphy in 2002. Both worked together in the Intelligent Systems Division of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (Gaithersburg, MD) when they decided to make the move (across the street as it turned out) to pursue focused interest in unmanned vehicles.

Gaussian Robot

Series C in 2021
Gaussian Robot, founded in 2013 and headquartered in Shanghai, China, specializes in the development of commercial automatic sweeping robots. The company offers a range of products including automatic cleaning robots, unmanned sanitation vehicles, security robot solutions, and building distribution robots. Additionally, Gaussian Robot incorporates advanced autonomous positioning navigation modules into its offerings, aiming to enhance operational efficiency in various commercial settings.

OpenTrons

Series C in 2021
Opentrons is a company that specializes in the development of automated laboratory equipment, particularly pipetting robots designed to streamline and enhance the efficiency of scientific experiments. By utilizing open-source technology and the Python programming language, Opentrons enables researchers to automate various laboratory processes, thereby reducing the potential for human error and expediting experimental workflows. Their product offerings include lab robots, workstations, hardware modules, consumables, reagents, and labware, all aimed at facilitating a more efficient and accurate research environment.

Keenon

Series D in 2021
Keenon Robotics is a company focused on the development of commercial service robots designed for various applications, including restaurants and catering. The company employs artificial intelligence, machine vision, machine learning, and automation technologies to create robots that assist in food delivery and other services across industries such as hospitality, retail, healthcare, and museums. By integrating these advanced technologies, Keenon Robotics aims to automate workflows, reduce operational costs, and enhance efficiency in diverse commercial environments.

Agile Robots

Series C in 2021
Agile Robots is an intelligent robot system development and application service provider, dedicated to the development and application of intelligent robot systems. The core products include 7-degree-of-freedom lightweight arm and general-purpose robot controller. , robot vision system, etc.

CMR Surgical

Series D in 2021
CMR Surgical Limited, based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, specializes in the design and manufacture of medical devices tailored for minimal access surgery. The company is recognized for its Versius surgical robotic system, which enhances laparoscopic surgical procedures by making them more accessible and affordable. Founded in 2014 and originally named Cambridge Medical Robotics, CMR Surgical aims to expand the capabilities of robotic surgery, allowing a broader range of procedures to be performed. The system provides surgeons with 3D high-definition imagery and real-time feedback, significantly improving the surgical experience and outcomes for patients.

AutoStore

Secondary Market in 2021
AutoStore AS, founded in 1995 and headquartered in Nedre Vats, Norway, specializes in manufacturing automated warehousing and storage systems. The company offers innovative automated retrieval and material handling solutions designed to optimize space and efficiency in warehouses. Its patented system utilizes standardized bins stacked in a cubic configuration, enabling significant increases in storage capacity without expanding the physical footprint. AutoStore's products include a range of components such as robots, grids, bins, controllers, workstations, and warehouse management systems. The company collaborates with several strategic partners, including Bastian Solutions, AM Automation, Egemin, Swisslog, Element Logic, and LG CNS, to distribute its technology globally through a multi-distribution network.

Brain Corp

Series D in 2020
Brain Corporation, founded in 2009 and based in San Diego, California, specializes in developing a cloud-based artificial intelligence platform for self-driving robots. Its primary product, BrainOS, is an operating system that integrates with off-the-shelf hardware and sensors, providing robots with advanced computer vision and AI capabilities to navigate complex environments. The company's technology supports various industries, including delivery, healthcare, security, and personal services, by enabling robots to operate autonomously. Additionally, Brain Corporation's solutions aid manufacturers in producing and deploying autonomous machines effectively, positioning the company as a leader in the robotics industry. With offices in Amsterdam and Tokyo, Brain Corporation continues to expand its influence in robotics and automation globally.

Bear Robotics

Series A in 2020
Bear Robotics, Inc. designs and manufactures autonomous robots specifically for the food service industry. Based in Redwood City, California, the company offers Penny, a self-driven robot that utilizes artificial intelligence to transport food, dishes, and drinks while also providing customer service in restaurants. Founded in 2017, Bear Robotics aims to address challenges faced by the restaurant sector, such as rising labor costs and staffing shortages. By integrating robotics into restaurant operations, the company seeks to enhance the dining experience for customers, increase job satisfaction for employees, and boost profitability for restaurant owners.

Berkshire Grey

Series B in 2020
Berkshire Grey develops a materials handling system intended to automate omnichannel fulfillment. Its system utilizes artificial intelligence, computer vision, machine learning, and novel sensing to deploy intelligent robotic systems that automate tasks never before performed by machines in commercial settings, enabling customers to achieve higher accuracy and throughput speeds than traditional approaches as well as handle the broadest assortment of products, packaging, and parcels with ease.

Boston Dynamics

Venture Round in 2019
Boston Dynamics, Inc. is an engineering company based in Waltham, Massachusetts, specializing in the design and manufacture of advanced robots and software for human simulation. Founded in 1992 as a spin-off from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the company has gained recognition for its innovative robots that mimic animal movement, such as Spot, a quadruped robot, and Atlas, a humanoid robot. These robots are equipped with cutting-edge mobility, dexterity, and intelligence, allowing them to perform tasks in challenging environments, including industrial plants, construction sites, and warehouses. Boston Dynamics also develops software for human simulation, which is utilized in various training applications, including law enforcement and military operations. The company collaborates with organizations globally, providing solutions to some of the most complex challenges in automation and robotics.

Fetch Robotics

Series B in 2017
Fetch Robotics, Inc. is a San Jose, California-based company founded in 2014 that specializes in developing and manufacturing autonomous mobile robot solutions for the warehousing and intralogistics sectors. The company focuses on creating collaborative autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) that enhance material handling and data collection processes. Its offerings include the Fetch cloud robotics platform, the VirtualConveyor system for material transport, and DataSurvey tools for data collection. Fetch Robotics integrates advanced robotics and software to tailor workflows, enabling commercial and industrial environments to improve warehouse productivity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

RPA Holdings Japan

Venture Round in 2017
RPA Holdings primarily engages in the robot outsourcing business.

Brain Corp

Series C in 2017
Brain Corporation, founded in 2009 and based in San Diego, California, specializes in developing a cloud-based artificial intelligence platform for self-driving robots. Its primary product, BrainOS, is an operating system that integrates with off-the-shelf hardware and sensors, providing robots with advanced computer vision and AI capabilities to navigate complex environments. The company's technology supports various industries, including delivery, healthcare, security, and personal services, by enabling robots to operate autonomously. Additionally, Brain Corporation's solutions aid manufacturers in producing and deploying autonomous machines effectively, positioning the company as a leader in the robotics industry. With offices in Amsterdam and Tokyo, Brain Corporation continues to expand its influence in robotics and automation globally.

Schaft

Acquisition in 2017
SCHAFT traces its origins to the JSK Robotics Laboratory at the University of Tokyo, where legendary Japanese roboticist Hirochika Inoue did some of his pioneering work. The lab is now led by another influential roboticist, Masayuki Inaba. Under Professor Inaba, SCHAFT's cofounders Junichi Urata and Yuto Nakanishi started working on humanoid robots about a decade ago. They joined a project to develop a humanoid called Kotaro around 2004, and later went on to work on other similar projects: Kojiro, Kenzo, and Kenshiro. (Spectrum.iee.org)

Boston Dynamics

Acquisition in 2017
Boston Dynamics, Inc. is an engineering company based in Waltham, Massachusetts, specializing in the design and manufacture of advanced robots and software for human simulation. Founded in 1992 as a spin-off from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the company has gained recognition for its innovative robots that mimic animal movement, such as Spot, a quadruped robot, and Atlas, a humanoid robot. These robots are equipped with cutting-edge mobility, dexterity, and intelligence, allowing them to perform tasks in challenging environments, including industrial plants, construction sites, and warehouses. Boston Dynamics also develops software for human simulation, which is utilized in various training applications, including law enforcement and military operations. The company collaborates with organizations globally, providing solutions to some of the most complex challenges in automation and robotics.

SB Drive

Series A in 2017
SB Drive is an entity created last year to develop autonomous vehicle technology for public transport. SB Drive is a self-driving project with a focus on making public transportation options, particularly in more rural areas, smarter. The company is aiming to conduct tests on public roads next year with the eventual target of a commercial service by 2020. Already, it said, it has run “social trials” and testing using fixed-route public buses and freighter trucks that make use of autonomous driving tech. SB Drive has also struck partnerships with four municipalities in Japan.

CloudMinds

Series A in 2017
CloudMinds Technology Inc. specializes in developing and operating cloud robotic solutions, offering a range of services that enhance robotic intelligence and connectivity. Established in 2015 and based in Irvine, California, the company provides mobile-intranet cloud services, which include secure mobility solutions for enterprises, cloud artificial intelligence applications, and a dedicated cloud robot control unit. One of its flagship products is the XR-1 Robot, a commercial humanoid service robot that utilizes Smart Compliant Actuator technology for precise interaction. The XR-1 connects to the company's AI Cloud Brain platform, known as Human Augmented Robotics Intelligence with Extreme Reality (HARIX), allowing it to operate effectively over secure virtual backbone networks utilizing 4G and 5G technologies. By integrating advanced sensors and visual perception capabilities, CloudMinds ensures that its robots can safely engage with humans and their environments. The company operates as a subsidiary of CloudMinds Technologies Co., Ltd.

CloudMinds

Seed Round in 2016
CloudMinds Technology Inc. specializes in developing and operating cloud robotic solutions, offering a range of services that enhance robotic intelligence and connectivity. Established in 2015 and based in Irvine, California, the company provides mobile-intranet cloud services, which include secure mobility solutions for enterprises, cloud artificial intelligence applications, and a dedicated cloud robot control unit. One of its flagship products is the XR-1 Robot, a commercial humanoid service robot that utilizes Smart Compliant Actuator technology for precise interaction. The XR-1 connects to the company's AI Cloud Brain platform, known as Human Augmented Robotics Intelligence with Extreme Reality (HARIX), allowing it to operate effectively over secure virtual backbone networks utilizing 4G and 5G technologies. By integrating advanced sensors and visual perception capabilities, CloudMinds ensures that its robots can safely engage with humans and their environments. The company operates as a subsidiary of CloudMinds Technologies Co., Ltd.

Fetch Robotics

Series A in 2015
Fetch Robotics, Inc. is a San Jose, California-based company founded in 2014 that specializes in developing and manufacturing autonomous mobile robot solutions for the warehousing and intralogistics sectors. The company focuses on creating collaborative autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) that enhance material handling and data collection processes. Its offerings include the Fetch cloud robotics platform, the VirtualConveyor system for material transport, and DataSurvey tools for data collection. Fetch Robotics integrates advanced robotics and software to tailor workflows, enabling commercial and industrial environments to improve warehouse productivity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
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