A startup that builds other startups raised $100M, and is all-in on physical AI
techcrunch ·
Vantora, formerly known as UP.Labs, began four years ago as a startup lab that built companies to solve problems for corporate customers rather than operating as a conventional incubator, accelerator, or venture firm. The company has raised a $100 million investment from Silversmith Capital Partners and now focuses more narrowly on creating startups for corporate customers instead of the broader market. CEO John Kuolt said Vantora is developing a proprietary M&A pipeline in which corporate partners invest in ventures, become their first customers, and may eventually fold them into their own businesses. This model has enabled Vantora to pursue physical AI opportunities that were previously too sensitive or strategically important to commercialize for outside customers. One example involves an AI concept developed for J.B. Hunt that Vantora had previously abandoned because it could not sell the technology to other companies. Founded in 2022 with Porsche as its first corporate partner, Vantora has since launched startups and formed partnerships with Alaska Airlines, J.B. Hunt, Wabash, and TDG, while the Silversmith funding represents its first outside investment.
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