# Merlin Labs

Startup profile on Capital Atlas: https://capitalatlas.ai/startups/merlin-labs

- Industry: Software
- Headquarters: Boston, US
- Website: www.merlinlabs.com
- Total disclosed funding: $158M
- Latest round: Series B (Mar 9, 2022)
- Investors on record: 12

## About

Based in Boston, MA, US, Merlin Labs, Inc. is an innovative technology firm specializing in pilot automation systems designed to enhance the functionality and efficiency of military and civilian aircraft.Merlin Labs was founded in 2018 in Boston, US, and is focused on developing advanced pilot automation systems. The company has pursued multiple deals, totaling 5, with the latest deal occurring on March 9, 2022. They successfully raised USD 111.52 mn in SERIES B funding co-led by Baillie Gifford and Snowpoint Ventures, with participation from First Round Capital and GV. This funding round represents the total amount raised by the company, which is currently valued at USD 625.85 mn. The CEO is Matt George, and Shelby Hall is also involved in leadership.Merlin Labs specializes in the development of advanced pilot automation systems, specifically designed to enhance the capabilities of various military and civilian aircraft. Their core offering, the Merlin Pilot, is an autonomous system capable of full flight operations—from takeoff to landing—utilizing sophisticated sensor technology and Natural Language Processing algorithms for effective communication and navigation. This system aims to address the growing demand for reduced crew operations in aviation, providing a solution for operational efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. The Merlin Pilot is currently being integrated into military platforms such as the C-130J Super Hercules and KC-135 Stratotanker, with future plans for the F-16, targeting military clients and potential civilian freight operations. Geographically, Merlin Labs has established a presence in markets including the United States, New Zealand, and other international regions that engage in defense and civil aviation.Merlin Labs generates revenue through partnerships and collaborations with military and aviation entities, focused on the deployment of their flagship product, the Merlin Pilot. The company engages in direct B2B transactions, particularly with governmental and defense agencies that require advanced automation systems for their fleets. Contracts are structured around the development, integration, and testing phases of their products, involving milestone payments tied to specific project deliverables and certifications. Additionally, the firm may engage in long-term contracts for ongoing support and upgrades of the Merlin Pilot system, ensuring clients have access to the latest advancements in autonomous flight technology. Pricing structures typically align with industry standards for specialized aviation software and systems, reflecting the complexity and capabilities offered by the Merlin Pilot.In March 2022, Merlin Labs, Inc. raised USD 111.52 mn in SERIES B funding, which will be utilized to expand their product offerings and enter new markets. The company plans to enhance its flagship product, the Merlin Pilot, potentially targeting new functionalities and features. Furthermore, Merlin Labs is eyeing expansion into additional international markets beyond the US and New Zealand, although specific regions have yet to be defined. Recent funding will support research and development efforts, helping to accelerate the timeline for upcoming product launches and solidify their market presence.

## Funding rounds

- Series B, Mar 9, 2022, $112M — First Round Capital, GV, Jigyo Souzou Capital, Baillie Gifford, Snowpoint Ventures
- Series B, May 26, 2021, $25M — Western Technology Investment, First Round Capital, GV, Floodgate, BoxGroup, Shrug Capital, Harpoon Ventures
- Series A, Jan 1, 2020, $18M — GV, Harpoon Ventures
- Seed, Oct 17, 2018 — SV Angel
- Seed, Jan 1, 2018, $3.5M — First Round Capital, Floodgate, Bling Capital

## Investors

- First Round Capital (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/first-round-capital) — Seed, Series B
- Floodgate (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/floodgate) — Seed, Series B
- Bling Capital (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/bling-capital) — Seed
- SV Angel (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/sv-angel) — Seed
- GV (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/gv) — Series A, Series B
- Harpoon Ventures (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/harpoon-ventures) — Series A, Series B
- Western Technology Investment (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/western-technology-investment) — Series B
- BoxGroup (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/boxgroup) — Series B
- Shrug Capital (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/shrug-capital) — Series B
- Jigyo Souzou Capital (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/jigyo-souzou-capital) — Series B
- Baillie Gifford (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/baillie-gifford) — Series B
- Snowpoint Ventures (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/snowpoint-ventures) — Series B