# Applied Optoelectronics

Startup profile on Capital Atlas: https://capitalatlas.ai/startups/applied-optoelectronics

- Industry: Electronics
- Headquarters: Sugar Land, US
- Website: www.ao-inc.com
- Total disclosed funding: $50M
- Latest round: Series E (Apr 6, 2007)
- Investors on record: 6

## About

Applied Optoelectronics, Inc. is a U.S.-based company specializing in semiconductor and laser technologies. They develop advanced optical components aimed at enhancing connectivity across telecommunications and data center sectors.Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Sugar Land, US, Applied Optoelectronics, Inc. (AOI) specializes in developing advanced optical and laser technologies for various industries. The company has undergone strategic pivots to focus on high-demand sectors, particularly telecommunications and data centers. The founder, Thompson Lin, has been instrumental in shaping the company's vision and operations. AOI has secured a total of USD 45.60 mn through its latest funding round, a Private Placement/Follow on in March 2014, which was part of a larger effort to enhance product offerings and market reach. As of 2013, AOI had engaged in 11 deals, solidifying its position in the optical components market.Applied Optoelectronics, Inc. (AOI) specializes in advanced semiconductor and laser component technologies, offering a comprehensive range of products including optical transceivers, RF equipment solutions, and diode lasers. Their key offerings are designed to support the growing demands for global connectivity across multiple sectors including telecommunications, data centers, and cable broadband. AOI's optical transceivers facilitate efficient data transmission for service providers, enhancing communication network performance. AOI serves a diverse client base, including telecommunications companies and data center operators primarily in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, with a focus on optimizing communication infrastructures to meet rigorous demands for reliable and high-speed connectivity solutions.In the most recent year, 2024, Applied Optoelectronics reported a revenue of USD 249.37 mn and an EBITDA of USD -50.26 mn. The company generates revenue through a B2B model, supplying advanced optical components and transceivers directly to telecom operators and data centers. Transactions generally involve bulk orders, ensuring high-speed data flow across networks and operational efficiency for clients. AOI's flagship products are integral to FTTH (Fiber to the Home) systems and advanced sensing applications, reinforcing its role as a key player in the connectivity ecosystem.Applied Optoelectronics, Inc. is focused on launching new products and expanding its market presence. The company plans to design additional optical transceivers to cater to emerging telecommunications needs, with targeted releases expected in the upcoming fiscal years. AOI aims to enter new geographic regions in Asia-Pacific and Europe by 2025, leveraging recent funding to support these initiatives. The USD 45.60 mn raised during its public offering in March 2014 will be utilized to enhance product development and market strategies, facilitating a stronger foothold in these expanding markets.

## Funding rounds

- Series E, Apr 6, 2007, $28M — Mega Venture Capital
- Series C, Jan 29, 2004, $12M — Mega International Commercial Bank, Harbinger Venture Capital, Sycamore Ventures
- Series B, Aug 1, 2001, $10M — TAMC, OPNET Partners

## Investors

- TAMC (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/tamc) — Series B
- OPNET Partners — Series B
- Mega International Commercial Bank — Series C
- Harbinger Venture Capital (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/harbinger-venture-capital) — Series C
- Sycamore Ventures (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/sycamore-ventures) — Series C
- Mega Venture Capital (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/mega-venture-capital) — Series E