Participated · Series B · Mar 2025

Novarc Technologies develops full-stack AI robotics for automated welding, centered on its NovAI intelligent adaptive welding system. NovAI uses machine vision and deep neural nets for perception combined with real-time adjustments to eliminate prescanning and robotic reprogramming. The system enables robots to see and adapt like expert welders, delivering consistent, high-quality welds in varied conditions. NovAI Autonomy is scheduled to be commercially available in Summer 2025. The company says the new funding will accelerate R&D and the development of AI-driven solutions to increase industrial productivity and efficiency. Seaspan is a strategic partner and early adopter, having installed Novarc’s Spool Welding Robot at Vancouver Drydock and Victoria Shipyards. Novarc develops collaborative robots (cobots) and AI-based machine vision software and systems for pipe and industrial welding, anchored by its Spool Welding Robot (SWR). The SWR is described as the world’s first of its kind for pipe welding and operates alongside human operators to improve productivity, quality, and consistency, with customer payback claimed within six to 18 months. Novarc also offers AI-powered weld control software (NovEye™) and has a dedicated team focused on robotics, vision, welding and AI. The company plans to broaden its robot and AI product line, continue R&D investment, and expand sales and marketing across North America, Europe and Asia. Novarc reports significant three-year revenue growth (2019–2021) and this year has more than doubled both employees and SWR sales. The funding is intended to scale the multidisciplinary team and support the ramp-up in global demand for automation in fabrication facilities.

Participated · Series A · Apr 2024

Bite builds customizable, user-friendly self-service kiosk ordering software for fast-casual and quick-service restaurants and convenience stores. Its platform integrates with existing tech stacks to improve order accuracy, increase throughput, and enhance customer satisfaction. Bite uses a patented AI, called Bite Lift, to analyze each transaction in real time and provide personalized upsell recommendations that drive higher average checks. The company reports its software helps more than 1,100 restaurant locations and yields average check-size increases of about 20%. Bite plans to invest in scaling its technology with existing partners, onboarding new clients in its pipeline, and expanding focus to enterprise restaurant brands, emerging fast-casual concepts, and innovative c-stores. Recently secured funding (see deal) will be used to accelerate growth and continue development of its technology capabilities.