UK-based startup CloudNC has secured a $20 million B extension funding round, increasing its total capital raised to $128 million since its founding in 2015 by Theo Saville and Chris Emery. The company specializes in AI-powered software designed to streamline Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining, a precision process vital for manufacturing components in sectors such as automotive and defense. Saville explained that while traditional CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) software assists in part design, it typically requires manual input from experts to create machining strategies.

CloudNC’s product, CAM Assist, integrates with established CAM systems like Autodesk Fusion and Mastercam to automate much of this initial planning by selecting tools, determining approaches, and generating machine code. The software acts as an expert assistant that enhances efficiency by automating repetitive tasks while allowing skilled machinists to review and adjust the process. Over 1,000 machine shops use CAM Assist worldwide, predominantly in the U.S., according to Saville, as the company works to increase adoption and scale up operations.

The recent funding round was led by Nimble Ventures and included other backers like Calculus Venture Capital, Entrepreneur First, LM Capital, and Lockheed Martin’s venture arm. CloudNC plans to use the capital to grow its market presence, particularly by expanding its sales capabilities and entering new markets. The company also announced a forthcoming product called Quote Agent, aimed at helping manufacturers quickly estimate costs and risks of new projects, enabling faster decisions on new work amid challenges like reshoring trends and shortages of skilled labor.

Saville highlighted the complexity of CNC machining, noting there are more ways to machine a part than atoms in the universe, which has driven CloudNC’s years of development involving real-world factory experience. With a team of 80 employees, the startup’s mission is to boost the productivity of existing machinery and workforce through intelligent automation, without replacing expert judgment. The launch of Quote Agent, expected next month, reflects this ongoing commitment to leveraging AI to address bottlenecks in manufacturing workflows.