Amazon Backs Lumotive: Programmable Optics Startup Receives Funding

Lumotive Secures Additional Funding in Series B Round

Lumotive, a startup specializing in programmable optics, has expanded its recent Series B funding with contributions from new strategic investors.

New Investors Join the Round

The company, headquartered in Redmond, Washington, reopened its Series B funding round to welcome Amazon, via the Amazon Industrial Innovation Fund, and ITHCA Group, the technology investment division of Oman’s sovereign wealth fund, as investors.

This influx of capital elevates the total Series B funding to $59 million, an increase from the initial $45 million closure in February. To date, Lumotive has successfully raised over $100 million in venture capital.

Demand Exceeded Expectations

According to Lumotive CEO Sam Heidari, the interest in participating in the funding round surpassed initial projections. While some potential investors were declined, Heidari explained the decision to include ITHCA Group and Amazon was strategic.

“The relationship with Amazon holds significant strategic value for us, exceeding the importance of the financial investment itself,” Heidari stated.

Light Control Metasurface Technology

Lumotive’s core technology centers around Light Control Metasurface chips. These solid-state chips utilize nano-scale pixels that are electronically controlled to bend and manipulate light.

These chips offer diverse applications, including enhancing the environmental perception capabilities of autonomous vehicles as a more compact and cost-effective alternative to traditional mechanical lidar systems. They also provide solutions for optical switching in environments like data centers.

A Paradigm Shift in Light Manipulation

“This represents a fundamental change in our ability to manipulate light electronically,” Heidari explained. “We can now shape, steer, and focus light beams with electronic precision, effectively replicating the functions currently performed by mirrors and motors.”

Expansion Plans and Proven Technology

Established in 2018, Lumotive began sales of its chips in 2024, deliberately maintaining a focused and limited customer base. The newly acquired funds will be allocated to expanding sales and marketing efforts, as well as accelerating research and development initiatives.

“Our technology has moved beyond the research phase,” Heidari emphasized. “It’s a validated technology currently deployed in real-world applications. We’ve demonstrated not only its feasibility but also its ability to function reliably in practical settings.”