What is Graphcore?
Graphcore is a UK-based startup that has developed a novel microprocessor architecture, the Intelligence Processing Unit (IPU), specifically engineered for artificial intelligence and machine learning workloads. Launched in 2016, the company's IPU is designed to accelerate AI model training and inference by orders of magnitude compared to traditional processors. This unique architecture positions Graphcore as a key innovator in the competitive semiconductor landscape, aiming to provide a powerful and efficient platform for the rapidly expanding AI industry.
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 Robert Bosch Venture Capital, Foundation Capital, C4 Ventures, Samsung Electronics America, Draper Esprit plc, Amadeus Capital Partners, and Pitango Venture Capital
Series B (2017): $30M, investors not publicly disclosed
Series C (2017): $50M supported by Steamboat Ventures
Series D (2020): $350M featuring Robert Bosch Venture Capital, Dell Technologies, Merian Chrysalis, Foundation Capital, Ahren Innovation Capital, Baillie Gifford, Sofina, Steamboat Ventures, C4 Ventures, M&G Investments, Mayfair Equity Partners, Pitango, Samsung, Atomico, Amadeus Capital Partners, BMW, Microsoft, and Molten
Series E (2020): $222M backed by Schroders plc, Draper Esprit plc, Fidelity International, Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan, and Baillie Gifford & Co
Key Investors in Graphcore
Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan
Founded in 1989, the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan is an independent organization responsible for administering defined-benefit pensions for school teachers of the Canadian province of Ontario. The company also invests the plan's pension fund. The company is headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Robert Bosch Venture Capital
Robert Bosch Venture Capital GmbH (RBVC), headquartered in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, is a company that invests worldwide in innovative start-up companies at all stages of their development.
Foundation Capital
Foundation Capital is a venture capital firm that partners with bold founders building category-defining technology companies, supporting entrepreneurs from the earliest stages through long-term growth with deep operational and strategic expertise. With a history of backing transformative ideas, the firm focuses on innovation that reshapes industries, guided by a strong belief in conviction, collaboration, and a commitment to lasting impact.
What's next for Graphcore?
With substantial backing, Graphcore is poised to scale its operations and further refine its IPU technology. The company's focus on specialized AI hardware suggests a strategic direction towards capturing a significant share of the burgeoning AI market. Future growth will likely involve expanding its customer base, forging strategic partnerships, and continuing its research and development efforts to maintain a competitive edge in the fast-evolving field of artificial intelligence and machine learning.
See full Graphcore company page
