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Mujin Raises $85M in Series C Funding for AI-Based Robot Software

An increasing number of companies are turning to automation in response to a projected shortage of skilled workers in the manufacturing sector until 2030. Tokyo- and Atlanta-based startup Mujin, specializing in AI-based software for industrial automation, is at the forefront of this trend. They believe that robots can significantly enhance productivity and safety in various industries. Recently, Mujin announced a successful $85 million Series C funding round, bringing their total funding to $150 million. The investment was led by SBI Investment, with participation from Pegasus Tech Ventures and Accenture, among others. However, Mujin did not disclose their current valuation.

Founded in 2011 by Ross Diankov and Issei Takino, Mujin has developed the MujinController, a platform that allows users to deploy and automate various applications for industrial robots in manufacturing and logistics more cost-effectively. CEO Diankov chose to establish Mujin in Japan, a hub for manufacturing and automation tech companies. He describes their software platform as "the definitive brain for robots," a critical component that enhances the intelligence and capabilities of robots in diverse industries.

MujinController is already in use across more than 1,000 production systems and has gained adoption from key strategic partners, including major robot manufacturers like ABB, Fanuc, KUKA, Yaskawa, Universal Robots, and Kawasaki. The platform focuses on tasks such as picking and palletizing/de-palletizing e-commerce products and has even introduced a truck bot capable of unloading trailers and shipping containers.

Mujin plans to utilize the funding to expand its product offerings, develop advanced solutions, and address evolving market demands. They also aim for global expansion to reach new markets and customers worldwide. Currently, Mujin operates from offices in the U.S., Japan, and China, employing over 300 professionals.