Summary:
Rainmaker Technology raised $6.3 million to develop cloud seeding techniques aimed at inducing rain.
StatusPro, a virtual reality simulation gaming franchise, raised $20 million to develop NFL PRO ERA, a game that lets users experience what it's like to be a professional quarterback.
1X secured $100 million to develop Neo, a bipedal humanoid robot designed for everyday home assistance.
10Beauty raised $17 million for its “salon-quality” manicure machine that automates the manicure process.
Butterflies.AI is creating a social media platform where users can create AI friends, raising $4.8 million to develop this unique concept.
5 Startup Deals You Might Have Missed This Year: Rain, Robots, and AI Friends
The first half of 2024 has seen a flurry of activity in the startup world, with numerous companies raising significant funding. Here are five interesting deals that might have flown under the radar:
1. Rainmaker Technology: Making it Rain
This California-based startup is tackling the age-old challenge of controlling Mother Nature. Rainmaker Technology raised a $6.3 million seed round in May to develop cloud seeding techniques, a weather modification method aimed at inducing rain. The company hired its first engineers this year and plans to begin field operations later in 2024.
2. StatusPro: Feel the Game
For those who have ever dreamed of experiencing the thrill of playing professional football, StatusPro has you covered. The Miami-based company's virtual reality simulation franchise, NFL PRO ERA, lets users step into the shoes of their favorite quarterback. With over 1 million users, StatusPro raised a $20 million Series A in February, with support from investors including GV, LeBron James, and Drake. The company plans to use the funding to develop new titles and enhance its technology.
3. 1X: AI and Robotics
Norway-based 1X is developing Neo, a second-generation android designed for everyday home assistance. This bipedal humanoid robot can handle a variety of tasks, from setting the table to providing security. The company raised a $100 million Series B led by EQT Ventures, with previous support from OpenAI and Tiger Global. 1X aims to meet global labor demands with its advanced and safe androids, already serving enterprise clients in logistics and security.
4. 10Beauty: Better Nails
The intersection of robotics and automation is reaching even the salon industry. 10Beauty secured a $17 million Series A in February to bring its “salon-quality” manicure machine to the market. This device allows users to customize their manicures via a mobile app and then sit back as the machine files, polishes, and shapes their nails. The company boasts 1,000 sold-out machines and partnerships with Nordstrom and Ulta Beauty.
5. Butterflies.AI: AI for Social Media
This Bellevue, Washington-based startup is revolutionizing social media with its AI-powered platform that allows users to create AI friends. Butterflies.AI raised a $4.8 million seed round in June to further develop its platform, which enables users to create personalized AI companions with backstories, emotions, and interactions. While the concept might raise eyebrows, Butterflies.AI believes this technology can offer a unique and engaging social experience.
These are just a few of the interesting startup deals that have emerged in the first half of 2024. The future of technology is full of exciting possibilities, and these innovative companies are leading the charge.
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