What is Graphcore?
Graphcore is a UK-based startup founded in 2016, specializing in the development of novel microprocessors tailored for artificial intelligence and machine learning applications. Its flagship product, the Intelligence Processing Unit (IPU), features a unique architecture designed to execute current machine learning models at significantly higher speeds. This innovative approach positions Graphcore as a key player in the rapidly evolving AI hardware landscape, offering a distinct advantage for developers seeking to enhance computational efficiency in AI workloads.
How much funding has Graphcore raised?
Graphcore has raised a total of $682M across 5 funding rounds:
Series A
$30M
Series B
$30M
Series C
$50M
Series D
$350M
Series E
$222M
Series A (2016): $30M with participation from Draper Esprit plc, Amadeus Capital Partners, Samsung Electronics America, Robert Bosch Venture Capital, C4 Ventures, Pitango Venture Capital, and Foundation Capital
Series B (2017): $30M, investors not publicly disclosed
Series C (2017): $50M supported by Steamboat Ventures
Series D (2020): $350M featuring Amadeus Capital Partners, Samsung, Ahren Innovation Capital, Baillie Gifford, Robert Bosch Venture Capital, Dell, Merian Chrysalis, Steamboat Ventures, Mayfair Equity Partners, Pitango, C4 Ventures, M&G Investments, BMW, Microsoft, Draper Esprit, Foundation Capital, Atomico, and Sofina
Series E (2020): $222M backed by Baillie Gifford & Co, Draper Esprit plc, Schroders plc, Fidelity International, and Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan
Key Investors in Graphcore
Baillie Gifford & Co
Baillie Gifford is an investment management firm founded in Edinburgh in 1908, specializing in investment advice and managing assets for a global client base.
Steamboat Ventures
Steamboat Ventures, established in 2000, focuses on nurturing early to growth-stage technology, media, and consumer companies, aiming to help them become market leaders through dedicated value creation.
Amadeus Capital Partners
Amadeus Capital Partners is a global technology venture capital firm based in London, investing in high-growth companies from seed to later stages across sectors like AI, digital health, and cybersecurity.
What's next for Graphcore?
With substantial backing from major enterprise-level investors, Graphcore is poised for significant expansion and technological advancement. The recent strategic investment signals strong confidence in the company's IPU technology and its potential to disrupt the AI hardware market. This capital will likely fuel further research and development, enhance manufacturing capabilities, and broaden market penetration. Graphcore's trajectory suggests a focus on scaling its operations to meet the increasing global demand for high-performance AI computing solutions, potentially leading to further strategic partnerships and market leadership.
See full Graphcore company page
