Seattle-based Carbon Robotics raised $70 million from investors to scale its LaserWeeder business.
The financing will help the company expand manufacturing capabilities in eastern Washington and roll out new software and hardware products, according to a release. Additionally, it will support growth in new and existing markets such as eastern and southern Europe, as well as the Asia-Pacific region.
“This funding represents a pivotal milestone not just for our company but for farmers and consumers worldwide,” Paul Mikesell, CEO and founder of Carbon Robotics, said in a statement. “We’re leading a transformative shift, and this investment accelerates our ability to pioneer AI and robotics that will reshape farming for generations to come.”
Carbon Robotics’ LaserWeeder combines computer vision and artificial intelligence to identify and kill weeds with high-powered lasers, according to a release. The device, which weighs 9,500 pounds, aims to cut weed control costs by 80% and increase crop yield and quality. Carbon Robotics has also developed a monitoring system and companion app.
The company has raised a total of $157 million, including its latest round of financing from new and existing investors, such as BOND and NVIDIA’s venture capital arm, NVentures. NVentures announced a strategic investment in Carbon Robotics in May.
As part of the latest financing round, Mood Rowghani, general partner at BOND, will also join Carbon Robotics’ board of directors.
“Carbon Robotics is uniquely positioned to deploy AI to transform the massive agriculture industry at a critical time,” Rowghani said in a statement. “This investment reflects our strong conviction in the central role Carbon Robotics will play in shaping the future of farming.”