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Optimotive secures US$2M to expand in Windsor
Windsor-based mobile robotics firm Optimotive has secured US$2-million in new investor funding to expand operations and help complete development of two new products for use in the construction, mining and oil and gas sectors.
The company specializes in automated wheeled and tracked mobile robots to collect data and perform clean-up and towing duties in challenging outdoor settings. The funding will allow Optimotive to build 20 new IRIS model robots. There are currently five IRIS robots in the field.
Optimotive has secured backing from Silicon Valley venture capital fund Version One and Waterloo-based Garage Capital. The third backer in the project is Newlab Detroit, which is also offering access to its testing and manufacturing facilities at its site at the Michigan Central Station tech hub. Newlab’s Detroit operations specialize in mobility and aiding startups in that space.
Friendlier Secures $5M to Accelerate Nationwide Expansion
Friendlier, a Canadian leader in the reusable packaging industry, is thrilled to announce a successful seed extension raise to further its mission of helping businesses transition from single-use to reusable packaging. The successful closure of a $5 million funding round was led by Relay Ventures and Garage Capital, with support from experienced founders and operators.
Founded in 2019 by two chemical engineers, Friendlier offers returnable, multiple-use plastic containers at the same cost as single-use containers. Similar to a deposit fee on pop cans, customers pay a deposit which is returned when containers are returned. The containers are then sanitized and recirculated for use.