Zurich-based cloud computing startup Helio has raised a Seed funding round of €4.9 million. The round made up of both equity and debt funding, is led by QBIT Capital and includes Uebermorgen Ventures, seed+speed Ventures, Combination VC, Rockstart Energy Fund, ROI Ventures, Swisspreneur, and angel investment. The debt financing is provided by ZKB and secured by the Swiss Technology Fund.
Founded by Kevin Häfeli and Christoph Buchli in 2019 the startup will use funds to add to its team and advance the capabilities on its platform. It plans to optimise carbon-aware workload scheduling, increase its network of green data centres, and develop 3D rendering capabilities for the VFX market.
With a goal to improve efficiencies in cloud resource allocation, Helio’s unique real-time algorithm reroutes computing tasks to underused or renewable-energy-powered data centres.
“This funding is a watershed moment for Helio, not just in securing financial support, but also in aligning with partners who share our vision for a carbonaware cloud. As we accelerate our mission to transform the cloud computing industry into a model of efficiency and sustainability, this capital enables us to reduce both cloud spending and emissions for our customers. We are particularly excited to unlock new types of data centres as we make strides in key areas like 3D rendering and AI. The future of cloud computing is here, and it's more sustainable and efficient than ever,” says Häfeli.
“Cloud rendering is highly computationally intensive, and helio.exchange has developed sustainable solutions for it. This future-proof approach, combined with the long-standing experience and expertise of the two founders, has convinced us to invest in helio.exchange with seed+speed Ventures," says Alex Koelpin, seed+speed Ventures.
Lead image: Helio team. Photo: Helio
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