Eclipse Ventures Raises $1.3 Billion for Physical AI Startups

Eclipse Ventures has closed a new $1.3 billion fund dedicated to backing and building startups focused on physical artificial intelligence, according to TechCrunch. The firm plans to allocate a portion of the capital toward incubating new companies directly. The fund targets startups working at the intersection of AI and physical systems, including robotics, manufacturing automation, and industrial applications. This approach reflects growing investor interest in moving AI beyond software into hardware and real-world environments. Eclipse has historically focused on deep tech and industrial technology investments. The new fund represents a significant bet that the next wave of AI value creation will come from companies applying intelligent systems to physical infrastructure, supply chains, and manufacturing processes. The raise comes as venture capital flows into AI infrastructure and application companies at record levels. Investors are increasingly distinguishing between pure software AI plays and companies developing AI-powered physical systems. Eclipse's incubation strategy involves building startups from concept stage, providing both capital and operational support to founders tackling complex technical challenges in robotics, automation, and industrial AI.