Zurich-based cloud computing startup, Helio, has recently secured €4.9 million in a Seed funding round. The financing round consisted of both equity and debt funding and was led by QBIT Capital, with participation from Uebermorgen Ventures, seed+speed Ventures, Combination VC, Rockstart Energy Fund, ROI Ventures, Swisspreneur, and several angel investors. The debt financing was provided by ZKB and secured by the Swiss Technology Fund.
Helio, founded by Kevin Häfeli and Christoph Buchli in 2019, plans to use the funds to expand its team and advance the capabilities of its platform. The startup aims to optimize carbon-aware workload scheduling, grow its network of green data centers, and develop 3D rendering capabilities for the VFX market.
One of Helio’s primary goals is to improve efficiencies in cloud resource allocation. They have developed a unique real-time algorithm that redirects computing tasks to underutilized or renewable-energy-powered data centers. By doing so, they aim to create a more sustainable and efficient cloud computing industry.
Häfeli expresses his enthusiasm about the funding, stating, “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 carbon-aware 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 centers 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.”
The investment from seed+speed Ventures highlights the potential of Helio’s sustainable solutions for cloud rendering. Alex Koelpin from seed+speed Ventures says, “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.”
By securing this funding and forming partnerships with industry leaders, Helio aims to revolutionize the cloud computing industry by making it more environmentally friendly and cost-effective. Their commitment to optimizing resource allocation and leveraging renewable energy sources sets them apart in the market. As they continue to develop their platform and expand their network of green data centers, Helio is poised to drive significant change in the cloud computing industry and pave the way for a more sustainable future.