Chrysalix is a technology focused venture capital company that builds, mentors and connects high-growth companies. We have built our reputation on bringing disruptive innovation to the world’s largest industries by focusing on where technology meets physical science.
Our investments include breakthrough technologies like 3D printing of steel, fast charging electric vehicle infrastructure, emissions-free solar steam, smart mining and nuclear fusion. We see the automation of knowledge and physical work as the categories of technologies that will have the greatest disruptions and hence opportunities for the world’s largest industries over the coming decade. This is an extension of all the intelligent systems investing Chrysalix has focused on through our history, producing some of the most exciting innovations and our best portfolio companies with the highest returns.
Chrysalix has a proven methodology of sourcing disruptive technologies ahead of the curve and connecting inventors with large industrial partners. We are currently looking to fund the most promising next generation enabling technologies.
Chrysalix is seeking funding applications from a variety of technology companies in the following areas of robotics and automation:
1. MECHANICS AND INTEGRATION
The integration between mechanics, electronics and software has quickly evolved in the 21st century. Think of the conductor and the orchestra working much better together through smarter design.
2. ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND MACHINE LEARNING
If the programmer supplies all the intelligence, then that’s just a program. If a system is modeled on the mind, you can create an intelligent system that is capable of learning and reacting to the world.
3. SENSORS AND MACHINE VISION
Building on the AI example, if the machine has an intelligent world model, the sensors and machine vision can help build on that foundation, helping the machine “learn.”
4. COMMUNICATION AND CONTROL
The near future will see stronger communication and control between human and machine allowing the machines to function better for us humans.
5. INTERACTION AND COLLABORATION
Today robots typically perform from a top-down directive, one task at a time, and for safety reasons far away from people. In the near future, we will see robots working collaboratively and intelligently with humans leading to huge productivity gains.
6. COMPONENTS AND MATERIALS
Like switches in the power semiconductor industry, through a combination of demand, Moore’s law and rapid advancements in science and technology, component parts are getting better designed and cost much less.
Here's How it Works:
1.In addition to the interest areas, below is context on our investment processes and next steps after a submission:
*Basic Screening - A basic screening review of the submission is done on an on-going basis to determine whether compliance exists with the investment focus. During this basic review, intellectual property issues are discussed with entrepreneurs to ensure clarity concerning ownership and possible partner relationships. Essentially, Chrysalix is looking at the market opportunity, technology defensibility, management team, financing needs, and fit into the overall Chrysalix portfolio in terms of segment, weighting, and maturity.
*Initial Analysis & 1h Call - Positive review in the basic screening results in the potential investment being added to our deal list.The initial analysis evaluates whether critical success factors exist within the following areas: primary target markets (value proposition, scope, and projected demand), management team, technological position, stage of product development, financials and exit strategy.
*Initial Dialogue & Meetings - Stemming from the initial screen, the Chrysalix lead formulates questions seeking additional information while continuing dialogue with the entrepreneur. Upon receipt of confirmation or verification of information requested, a further review of the material occurs, ensuring proper analysis of intellectual property issues, market opportunities, technical development risks and financing needs.
*Formal Due Diligence - This formal due diligence will cover all the areas mentioned within the initial screening process of the review. In each business plan, Chrysalix looks for clearly defined milestones relating to the most important issues. A variety of specialists with whom Chrysalix works may become involved in this part of the due diligence process.
*Investment Decision - Based on the due diligence analysis, the responsible Chrysalix lead presents an investment proposal and a recommendation is made.
2.Chrysalix does not seek any intellectual property or special rights and encourage only non-confidential information be submitted. As a venture capital firm, we look to invest in existing start-ups or build new ones with strong IP positions. In general, at the Seed & Series A stage, we will invest $1M-$3M USD for 25%-35% ownership.
3. Chrysalix looks for existing companies and top performers with ideas to build a companies around. We have had a long history of doing both.
4. Chrysalix is based in Vancouver, Canada and Delft, Netherlands. Investments will be made in North America, Europe and opportunistically in Asia.