
Caterpillar Ventures
Description
Caterpillar Ventures is the strategic venture capital arm of Caterpillar Inc., the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines, and locomotives. Established to identify and invest in innovative startups, Caterpillar Ventures plays a crucial role in advancing technologies that align with Caterpillar's core business and future strategic direction. Based in Menlo Park, California, the fund leverages Caterpillar's extensive industry expertise, global reach, and customer base to provide significant value beyond capital to its portfolio companies.
The fund's investment thesis centers on supporting companies that are developing disruptive technologies and solutions relevant to the industrial, construction, and resource industries. Their primary areas of interest include digital technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and advanced analytics, which can enhance equipment performance, operational efficiency, and customer experience. Additionally, they focus on robotics, automation, advanced materials, energy solutions, and sustainable technologies that can drive innovation across Caterpillar's product lines and services. The strategic alignment with Caterpillar's long-term vision is a key criterion for their investment decisions.
Caterpillar Ventures typically invests in early to growth-stage companies, primarily participating in Seed, Series A, and Series B rounds. While specific check sizes can vary based on the opportunity and stage, their initial investments generally range from $1 million to $5 million, reflecting their commitment to meaningful participation in promising ventures. Beyond capital, portfolio companies gain access to Caterpillar's vast resources, including potential commercial partnerships, technical expertise, manufacturing capabilities, and global distribution networks. This strategic support aims to accelerate the development and market adoption of new technologies, providing a clear path to scale. As of early 2024, Crunchbase indicates Caterpillar Ventures has made over 25 investments and has seen several successful exits, demonstrating its active role in the venture ecosystem.
Investor Profile
Caterpillar Ventures has backed more than 27 startups, with 0 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 7 rounds, about 26% of its total and boasts 9 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Series B, Series Unknown, Series A rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United States, Canada, Kenya.
- Strong thematic focus on Manufacturing, Software, Industrial Automation.
- Typical check size: $1M – $5M.
Stage Focus
- Series B (37%)
- Series Unknown (30%)
- Series A (15%)
- Series D (7%)
- Post Ipo Equity (7%)
- Series C (4%)
Country Focus
- United States (67%)
- Canada (15%)
- Kenya (7%)
- Australia (4%)
- Israel (4%)
- United Kingdom (4%)
Industry Focus
- Manufacturing
- Software
- Industrial Automation
- Robotics
- Automotive
- Energy
- Wearables
- Battery
- Internet Of Things
- Aerospace
Frequently Asked Questions
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