Vsim: Nvidia Alumni Build a New AI & Robotics Simulation Startup

Two former Nvidia engineers have launched a new startup, Vsim, focused on developing a novel physics simulation framework. This company has secured $21.5 million in seed funding, bringing its total funding to $24 million. This significant investment highlights the potential of Vsim's technology, which aims to revolutionize the field of AI and robotics simulation.

• Vsim was founded by Michelle Lu and Kier Storey, who previously worked as engineers at Nvidia, contributing to the development of the company's advanced simulation technology.
• The startup is targeting robotics training as its initial application, leveraging the advancements in processing power and AI to create a more realistic and efficient training environment for robots.

Vsim's Ambitions: Beyond Robotics Simulation

While Vsim's initial focus is on robotics, the company's technology has the potential to be used across various sectors, including research, entertainment, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and beyond.

• Vsim's technology aims to address the limitations of existing simulation tools, which are often built for fixed environments with limited degrees of freedom.
• The company's simulations are designed to be highly realistic, capable of handling dynamic and unpredictable environments, enabling robots and other autonomous machines to make real-time decisions in the real world.

Nvidia's Legacy & Vsim's Innovation

Vsim's founders bring decades of experience in simulation technology, honed during their time at Nvidia, where they developed cutting-edge simulations for various applications, including robotics. Vsim is building upon this expertise, aiming to create a new generation of simulation platforms capable of handling more complex and dynamic scenarios.

• The founders' expertise in simulation technology, acquired through their work at Nvidia, provides Vsim with a strong foundation for developing its innovative solutions.
• Vsim's approach to simulation technology is distinct from Nvidia's existing efforts, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the field.

Funding & Investors

Vsim's seed funding round was led by EQT Ventures, with participation from several prominent investors, including Factorial Funds, Samsung Next, Tru Arrow, Xora, IQ Capital, Koro Capital, Concept Ventures, Lakestar Scout Fund, and Carles Reina. The substantial funding demonstrates the confidence investors have in Vsim's technology and its potential to disrupt the simulation industry.

• The $21.5 million seed funding secured by Vsim highlights the significant interest from investors in the company's technology.
• The diverse group of investors backing Vsim indicates the broad potential of the company's technology across various sectors.

Vsim's Founders: From Newcastle University to Nvidia

Michelle Lu and Kier Storey, the co-founders of Vsim, share a long history, dating back to their days as physics students at Newcastle University. After completing their PhD programs, they founded their first startup, which proved to be short-lived. Their experience at Bizarre Creations, a game studio acquired by Activision, provided them with valuable experience in building physics engines. This led them to Nvidia, where they dedicated more than a decade to developing simulation technology.

• The founders' shared academic and professional journey, spanning nearly two decades, underscores their strong partnership and expertise.
• Their experience at Bizarre Creations and Nvidia, where they developed physics engines for games and simulation technology, respectively, provides them with a unique blend of skills and knowledge.

Vsim's Mission: Transforming Robotics & Beyond

Vsim's technology has the potential to revolutionize robotics training by providing a more realistic and efficient simulation environment. However, the company's ambitions extend far beyond robotics, aiming to create a universal simulation platform capable of addressing the needs of various industries, including research, entertainment, manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals.

• Vsim's focus on robotics training highlights the immediate impact of its technology on the advancement of robotic systems.
• The company's long-term vision encompasses a broader range of applications, demonstrating its potential to transform various industries and sectors.

Vsim's Location: Manchester, UK

Vsim is headquartered in Manchester, United Kingdom. Despite the early challenges of finding funding for simulation technology startups in the region, the founders' determination and the company's innovative technology have led to its success.

• Vsim's headquarters in Manchester highlights the growing technological innovation in the region, attracting talent and investment.
• The company's success story in Manchester demonstrates the potential for startups to thrive in diverse locations.