Arda, a startup focused on AI for manufacturing, has secured $230 million in a funding round that brings its valuation to $1.5 billion. The round, announced on October 20, 2026, was led by Altimeter Capital, Accel, and Khosla Ventures.
The company's valuation has more than doubled in approximately seven months. In March 2026, Arda sought $70 million at a valuation of $700 million, ultimately raising more than three times that initial target.
The startup was co-founded by Bob McGrew, who previously served as the chief research officer at OpenAI from 2017 to 2024. The company develops AI tools designed to analyze production video, manage design changes, and coordinate human-robot collaboration.
Arda's technology aims to increase the flexibility of factory operations and reduce reliance on international supply chains. The company currently counts defense technology firm Anduril among its customers.
