Amazon Backs Programmable Optics Firm Lumotive

Startup Lumotive, specializing in programmable optics, has attracted additional strategic investors in its latest Series B funding round.

Based out of Redmond, Washington, Lumotive has reopened its Series B funding to include Amazon, via its Amazon Industrial Innovation Fund, and ITHCA Group, the technology investment arm of Oman’s sovereign wealth fund, as new backers.

The inclusion of these new investors raises Lumotive’s Series B funding total to $59 million from the initial $45 million secured in February. The startup has now surpassed $100 million in total venture capital raised.

In a conversation with TechCrunch, Lumotive CEO Sam Heidari expressed that the interest in the funding round was greater than anticipated. Although some investors were turned down initially, he acknowledged that inviting ITHCA Group and Amazon was a wise choice.

“Amazon brings substantial strategic advantages to us,” Heidari stated. “We appreciate the relationship beyond just the financial support.”

Lumotive’s Light Control Metasurface solid-state chips feature nano-scale pixels that can be electronically adjusted to manipulate light. These chips support various applications, ranging from helping autonomous vehicles understand their environment as a more compact and cost-effective alternative to Lidar, to enabling optical switching in data centers.

“This indicates a paradigm shift in our capacity to electronically control light,” Heidari noted. “We can shape, stir, and focus light electronically, mimicking the functions of traditional mirrors and motors used for light management.”

Founded in 2018, Lumotive commenced the sale of its chips in 2024 and has deliberately maintained a small, focused customer base. Heidari noted that the new funding will enable growth in sales and marketing, as well as increased investment in research and development.

“This is no longer merely a science project,” Heidari remarked about Lumotive’s technology. “It’s a validated technology in active use. We have recognized significant demand for it. Not only does it function, but it also operates in deployable contexts.”