What is AgIC?
AgIC specializes in developing and manufacturing conductive markers and printer cartridges that utilize silver conductive ink. This technology allows users to quickly and intuitively prototype electric circuits directly onto paper using simple writing or printing methods. Founded in January 2014, AgIC gained initial traction through a successful Kickstarter campaign in March 2014, leading to the sales of its conductive ink markers and cartridges. The startup has garnered recognition within the Maker Movement, receiving accolades such as Editor's Choices at Maker Faires, the second prize at the FabLab Conference, and the Microsoft Innovation Award. AgIC operates with a main office in Tokyo and a subsidiary in Sunnyvale, California.
How much funding has AgIC raised?
AgIC has raised a total of $2.3M across 2 funding rounds:
Angel/Seed
$830K
Unspecified
$1.5M
Angel/Seed (2015): $830K with participation from East Ventures and TomyK
Unspecified (2016): $1.5M led by Beyond Next Ventures and Cemedine
Key Investors in AgIC
East Ventures
East Ventures is a venture capital firm that supports early-stage companies, with a focus on sustainable development and social impact through ESG initiatives. They invest in tech founders and disruptors across various sectors, aiming to foster innovation and digital competitiveness.
TomyK
TomyK Ltd. is a venture capital firm established in 2012, focusing on early-stage companies in robotics, AI, human augmentation, biotechnology, medical & life science, and other frontier technologies.
Beyond Next Ventures
Beyond Next Ventures partners with researchers and entrepreneurs to commercialize deep-tech innovations, providing funding and incubation support for startups in healthcare, climate, agri-food, and AI.
What's next for AgIC?
The recent major strategic investment signals a pivotal growth phase for AgIC, likely enabling the company to scale its production, expand its market reach, and further develop its conductive ink solutions. This capital infusion is expected to accelerate the adoption of its prototyping tools across educational, hobbyist, and potentially industrial sectors. AgIC's focus on intuitive circuit creation positions it to capitalize on the growing demand for accessible electronics development and the burgeoning maker culture.
See full AgIC company page
