What is Semprius?
Semprius, Inc. is a pioneer in the solar energy industry, recognized for developing the world's smallest commercial solar cells. By leveraging state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques, the company has achieved a record-setting 35.5% solar module efficiency. This technological breakthrough positions Semprius as a leader in the next generation of cost-competitive, sustainable solar electricity. The company's innovative approach to high-concentration photovoltaics has earned it significant industry accolades, including a spot on the 2013 MIT Technology Review 50 Disruptive Companies list, reflecting its role as a key disruptor in the global energy transition.
How much funding has Semprius raised?
Semprius has raised a total of $77M across 18 funding rounds:
Private Equity
$8.2M
Series B
$6.4M
Unspecified
$1.5M
Debt
$2.7M
Private Equity
$31.1M
Series C
$3M
Unspecified
$7.5M
Debt
$2.1M
Debt
$250K
Multiple Rounds
$4.6M
Multiple Rounds
$5M
Private Equity (2009): $8.2M, investors not publicly disclosed
Series B (2009): $6.4M supported by ARCH Venture Partners, Illinois Ventures, Intersouth Partners, and GVC Venture Fund
Unspecified (2010): $1.5M featuring X-FAB Semiconductor Foundries
Debt (2010): $2.7M backed by ARCH Venture Partners, Illinois Ventures, and Intersouth Partners
Private Equity (2011): $31.1M with participation from ARCH Venture Partners, Illinois Ventures, and Intersouth Partners
Series C (2012): $3M led by Illinois Emerging Technologies and Morgan Creek Capital Management
Unspecified (2012): $7.5M supported by ARCH Venture Partners and Intersouth Partners
Debt (2013): $2.1M featuring ARCH Venture Partners, Illinois Ventures, and Intersouth Partners
Debt (2013): $250K backed by ARCH Venture Partners, Illinois Ventures, and Intersouth Partners
Debt (2014): $553K with participation from ARCH Venture Partners and Intersouth Partners
Debt (2014): $1.1M led by ARCH Venture Partners, Intersouth Partners, and IllinoisVENTURES
Debt (2014): $1.2M supported by ARCH Venture Partners
Debt (2014): $1.7M, investors not publicly disclosed
Debt (2015): $642K, investors not publicly disclosed
Debt (2015): $501K, investors not publicly disclosed
Grant (2015): $2.9M led by Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy
Debt (2015): $995K, investors not publicly disclosed
Key Investors in Semprius
ARCH Venture Partners
A leading early-stage venture capital firm that creates and invests in life sciences and advanced technology companies, often cofounding startups with scientists and entrepreneurs to commercialize innovations from universities and national laboratories.
Illinois Ventures
A venture capital firm specializing in seed and Series A investments in deep tech sectors, with a strong focus on supporting innovators with ties to the University of Illinois.
Intersouth Partners
One of the most active and experienced early-stage venture funds in the Southeast, managing multiple limited partnerships with a focus on technology and life sciences.
What's next for Semprius?
With the support of its latest strategic financing, Semprius is well-positioned to optimize its production capacity and expand its footprint in the global solar market. The company's focus remains on driving down the levelized cost of electricity through its high-efficiency modules, which are essential for achieving grid parity. Future strategic initiatives will likely prioritize the scaling of manufacturing operations and the pursuit of large-scale utility projects, ensuring that its disruptive technology can meet the growing demand for reliable, clean energy solutions. As the firm matures, its ability to maintain its technological edge while navigating the competitive landscape of renewable energy will be the primary driver of its long-term valuation.
See full Semprius company page
