Parsers VC - Weekly Funding / Startup / VC news of February 19, 2025
Venture Capital News. Funding rounds, statistics Week of February 11 - February 17: United States (29 - $3.56B), United Kingdom (5 - $86M), India (6 - $261M), Israel (3 - $53M), Sweden (3 - $7M)
Most Popular Venture Capital News
1. Harnessing Community Power for Product Development
(Cited in 13 tech media)
In the digital age, the pulse of innovation beats strongest within communities. These groups are not just support networks; they are incubators of ideas. When companies tap into the collective wisdom of their users, they unlock a treasure trove of insights. This article explores how community-driven development can transform products and drive success.
Imagine a ship sailing through uncharted waters. The captain relies on the crew's knowledge to navigate. Similarly, businesses can rely on their communities to steer product development. Communities provide feedback, share experiences, and suggest improvements. They are the compass guiding companies toward relevance and innovation.
2. Pricer AB: A Year of Transformation and Growth Ahead
(Cited in 13 tech media)
In the world of retail technology, Pricer AB has emerged as a phoenix, rising from the ashes of previous challenges. The company’s year-end report for 2024 reveals a narrative of resilience, innovation, and a strategic pivot towards growth. With a strong order intake and significant improvements in profitability, Pricer is poised for an exciting 2025.
The fourth quarter of 2024 marked a turning point. Pricer reported an impressive 37.2% increase in order intake, reaching SEK 916.1 million. This surge is not just a number; it reflects a robust demand for Pricer’s electronic shelf labels and digital solutions. Adjusted for currency fluctuations, the order intake rose by 38.5%. This is a clear signal that retailers are increasingly recognizing the value of digital transformation.
3. The Crafting Crisis: Joann's Bankruptcy and the Retreat from Diversity Initiatives
(Cited in 12 tech media)
Joann, a name synonymous with crafting, is unraveling. The company, once a beacon for DIY enthusiasts, is set to close 500 stores across the United States. This decision comes as Joann navigates the turbulent waters of bankruptcy for the second time in a year. The roots of this decline stretch back to 1943, when a single store opened in Cleveland, Ohio. Over the decades, Joann blossomed into a national chain, rebranding itself as simply "Joann" to mark its 75th anniversary. But now, the vibrant fabric of its business is fraying.
The pandemic initially fueled a crafting renaissance. People turned to DIY projects, filling their homes with handmade creations. But as the world reopened, consumer interest waned. Joann's sales began to falter. The competition grew fierce. Rivals like Hobby Lobby and even larger retailers like Target began to encroach on Joann's territory, offering a wide array of art supplies. The crafting aisle became a battleground.
4. Wall Street Rises on AI Surge and Tariff Talks
(Cited in 12 tech media)
Wall Street is a fickle beast, but today it roared back to life. The main indexes climbed higher, driven by the dual engines of artificial intelligence and steel tariffs. Investors are like bees buzzing around a blooming flower, drawn to the sweet nectar of opportunity.
On February 10, 2025, the S&P 500 rose by 0.67%, closing at 6,066.44 points. The Nasdaq soared by 0.98%, ending at 19,714.27 points. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added a modest 0.38%, finishing at 44,470.41 points. These numbers tell a story of resilience and optimism.
The catalyst? AI stocks. Nvidia and Broadcom led the charge, with Nvidia climbing 2.9% and Broadcom rising 4.5%. These companies are the titans of technology, shaping the future with their innovations. Investors are flocking back to familiar territory, where the grass seems greener. Earnings reports are painting a brighter picture than expected, with S&P 500 companies projected to show a year-over-year earnings growth of 14.8%. This is a significant leap from earlier forecasts of less than 10%.
5. Apptronik's $350 Million Leap into the Future of Humanoid Robotics
(Cited in 11 tech media)
In a world where technology often feels like science fiction, Apptronik is turning dreams into reality. The Austin-based robotics company recently announced a monumental $350 million funding round, co-led by B Capital and Capital Factory, with notable participation from Google. This investment is not just a financial boost; it’s a rocket fuel for innovation, propelling Apptronik into the forefront of humanoid robotics.
Founded in 2016 at the University of Texas at Austin, Apptronik has steadily carved its niche in the robotics landscape. With a history of developing 15 robotic systems, including NASA’s Valkyrie, the company is now focusing on its flagship product: Apollo. This humanoid robot is designed to work alongside humans, performing tasks in warehouses, manufacturing plants, and beyond. Imagine a tireless worker, capable of lifting heavy packages and navigating complex environments—this is Apollo.
6. SpotDraft Secures $54 Million to Transform Contract Management
(Cited in 10 tech media)
In the bustling tech landscape of Bengaluru, SpotDraft has emerged as a formidable player in contract lifecycle management (CLM). The company recently secured $54 million in Series B funding, a significant leap that signals its ambition to reshape how legal teams handle contracts. This funding round was led by Vertex Growth Singapore and Trident Partners, with existing investors like Xeed VC, Arkam Ventures, Prosus Ventures, and Premji Invest also joining the fray.
Founded in 2017 by Shashank Bijapur, Madhav Bhagat, and Rohith Salim, SpotDraft has rapidly evolved. Its AI-driven platform is designed specifically for in-house legal teams, addressing the complexities of contract management. The software offers a suite of features, including AI-assisted redlining, e-signatures, and an intelligent contract repository. It’s a one-stop shop for organizations looking to streamline their contracting processes.
7. The Digital Banking Revolution: A New Era of Customer-Centric Solutions
(Cited in 10 tech media)
In the world of finance, change is the only constant. As technology evolves, so do the expectations of customers. Banks are no longer just vaults for money; they are becoming digital ecosystems that cater to the unique needs of individuals and families. The recent partnership between Experion Technologies and Tagit is a testament to this shift. It’s a bold move that aims to redefine how financial services engage with their clients.
Experion Technologies, a player in the digital transformation arena, has joined forces with Tagit, a Singapore-based innovator in digital banking solutions. Together, they are set to reshape the landscape of banking. This collaboration is not just about technology; it’s about creating experiences that resonate with users on a personal level.
8. France's AI Ambitions: A Race Against Time and Technology
(Cited in 10 tech media)
In the heart of Paris, a pivotal summit unfolded. President Emmanuel Macron stood at the helm, promising to cut through the bureaucratic fog. His vision? A robust artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure that would catapult France—and Europe—into the global tech race. The stakes are high. The world is watching.
Macron's rhetoric was bold. He invoked the spirit of rebuilding Notre Dame, a symbol of resilience. Just as France restored its iconic cathedral after the devastating fire, Macron aims to revitalize the nation’s tech landscape. He pledged to streamline processes, eliminate red tape, and create a clear path for AI development. The message was clear: France is ready to lead.
Last week's funding rounds
108 funding rounds, +6% from last week.
Number of funding rounds in the last quarter - February 17, 2025 by Parsers VC
Total raised $6.97 billion, +133% since last week
Total raised $, bln - February 17, 2025 by Parsers VC
Funding rounds in United States
ANA, Inc. Raises $50M
Andesite Raises $23M
Apptronik Raises $350M
Archer Raises $300M from BlackRock
BEKHealth Raises $4M
Boostly (YC S22) Raises $22M Series A Round
Candid Health Raises $52.5M
Comulate Raises $20M Series B Round
Converzai Raises $16M Series A Round
Coppin State University Raises $500K
Crowded Raises $7.5M Series A Round
Endera Raises $49M
Epicore Biosystems Raises $26M Series B Round
Greyson Clothiers Raises $20M
Groq Raises $1.5B
ImpediMed Raises $15M
Lennox Raises $6M
Levee Medical, Inc. Raises $10M Series B Round
Nirmata Raises $9.6M from Peak XV Partners
Oobli (formerly Joywell Foods) Raises $18M
prenuvo Raises $120M
Quera Raises $230M from SoftBank Corp., Google
SARDINE Raises $70M Series C Round
SelectQuote Insurance Services Raises $350M from Newlight Partners, Bain Capital, Morgan Stanley
Sintavia Raises $10M
Stellaromics Inc. Raises $80M Series B Round
Uscreen Raises $150M from PSG
UVIONIX Raises $3.51M Seed Round
Zeta Suite Raises $50M at $2B Valuation
Funding rounds in United Kingdom
Flit Raises $1.51M
HowNow Raises $9.34M Series A Round
OneID® Raises $20.1M
Raenest Raises $11M Series A Round
Validus Risk Management Raises $45M
Funding rounds in India
CAPGRID Raises $5M from Anicut Capital
Lucidity.cloud Raises $21M Series A Round
Rapido Raises $28.78M Series E Round from Prosus
SpotDraft Raises $54M Series B Round
ToneTag Raises $78M from Elevate Innovation Partners
udaan.com Raises $75M Series G Round
Funding rounds in Israel
Exero Raises $12.7M
Steakholder Foods Raises $250K Grant Round
Voyantis Raises $41M
Funding rounds in Sweden
Elicera Therapeutics AB Raises $518.6K from European Innovation Council
Kodiak Hub Raises $6M
VERIGRAFT Raises $1.26M
More funding rounds in the article…
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Joann’s downfall is a reminder that even legacy brands must evolve with consumer behavior. Innovation is a double-edged sword, adapt or risk becoming history. Which of these stories do you think will have the biggest long-term impact?