Founded in 2021 by AI researchers Julian Senoner, Bernhard Kratzwald, and Torbjorn Netland, EthonAI employs “causal AI” models to enhance production efficiency. The startup boasts a roster of high-profile clients, including Siemens, Lindt & Sprüngli, and Roche. EthonAI’s software has notably improved Lindt’s production line by reducing rejected chocolates, enabling real-time defect detection and process adjustments.
Index Ventures, known for investments in Dropbox, Meta, and Slack, led the funding round with contributions from General Catalyst, Earlybird, and Founderful. Katharina Wilhelm, partner at Index Ventures, highlighted the significance of converting raw data into actionable insights for factory operations. EthonAI secured 15 million Swiss francs ($16.5 million) in this venture capital round, marking a significant milestone in its growth and development.