MegaBots builds human-piloted, gas-powered giant fighting robots (the MkII) intended for live, televised competition. Early MkII versions weigh about 12,000 pounds, the battle-ready robot is expected to weigh around 15,000 pounds, and can hurl 3-pound paintballs. The startup aspires to create an international robot-fighting league modeled on major sports associations and has challenged Japan’s Suidobashi Heavy Industries to a duel it will organize. To roll out the league internationally, MegaBots is partnering with law firm Latham Watkins and specifically with partner Christopher D. Brearton. The company plans to use recent funding to build the robot for the fight, secure sponsorships, pursue TV opportunities, and stage future tournaments while evaluating potential host countries and government partners. MegaBots previously raised $550,000 via crowdfunding, has sold merchandise and sponsorships, and has generated over $1 million in revenue from live appearances and merchandise sales. The company was founded in 2014 and is based in Oakland, Calif.

Total raised

$2M

Funding rounds

1

Latest round

Seed

Latest activity

May 2016