CloudNC, a UK startup specializing in manufacturing software, announced a $20 million extension to its Series B funding round, increasing its total capital raised to $128 million. Founded in 2015 by Theo Saville and Chris Emery, the company develops AI-driven CAM Assist software designed to automate complex programming tasks in Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining. CNC machining involves computer-controlled tools that precisely cut or shape materials for industries such as automotive, defense, and consumer hardware.
Typically, CNC programming requires skilled machinists or manufacturing programmers to determine critical factors like tool selection and part holding strategies. While traditional CAM software aids in creating part features, it often relies on manual input for execution planning. CloudNC’s CAM Assist integrates with established CAM platforms like Autodesk Fusion and Mastercam to automate these strategic decisions, including tool choice, cutting directions, and feed rates, generating machine code for CNC operations.
The software acts as an expert assistant, automating initial setup and repetitive tasks while allowing human operators to review and refine the machining strategy. This approach aims to enhance productivity without replacing expert judgment. Currently, over 1,000 machine shops globally use CAM Assist, with 80% of customers based in the United States.
The new funding round, led by Nimble Ventures and including investors such as Calculus Venture Capital, Entrepreneur First, LM Capital, and Lockheed Martin’s venture arm, will support CloudNC’s efforts to expand market adoption, strengthen go-to-market strategies, and develop new products. One upcoming product, Quote Agent, is designed to help manufacturers quickly estimate project costs and risks, addressing the need for faster quoting amid labor shortages and reshoring trends in the U.S. manufacturing sector. Quote Agent is expected to launch next month.
CloudNC’s technology addresses the complexity of CNC machining, where countless approaches exist for producing a single part. The company leverages extensive real-world machining experience and software development to streamline these processes, aiming to boost efficiency in a sector facing skilled labor constraints and increasing demand for rapid production.