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Arduino’s Evolution from DIY to Enterprise
Arduino, a name synonymous with the DIY community, has been a favorite among hobbyists for its microcontrollers, much like Raspberry Pi. However, recent years have witnessed a shift in Arduino’s focus. The announcement of Arduino Pro last year was a clear indication of the company’s intent to cater to enterprise applications. This move was designed to provide a pathway for Arduino enthusiasts transitioning into professional roles and to facilitate the transition from prototyping to production for runs under 100,000 units.
Fresh Funding Fuels Further Growth
In a significant development, Arduino has secured an additional $22 million in funding, extending its previous $32 million Series B round. This round saw participation from Bosch Ventures and Renesas Electronics. Fabio Violante, Arduino’s CEO, shared with TechCrunch the company’s renewed strategy based on innovation across all fronts. The company is gearing up to cater to a professional market segment, which demands different service levels and has distinct expectations.
Meeting the Needs of Large-Scale Manufacturers
The involvement of Bosch and semiconductor producer Renesas in the funding round underscores the changing dynamics. These corporations, aiming to manufacture products on a large scale, have expectations that differ vastly from educators and hobbyists. Arduino’s existing roadmap, which includes providing technology to OEMs, is a testament to this shift. Violante highlighted that manufacturers had been using Arduino products for rapid prototyping. The company’s move to introduce sophisticated products, sensors, and microcontroller boards that cater to a broader temperature range ensures that these products can be used in final products.
Expanding Horizons: U.S. and Europe
With the fresh influx of funds, Arduino is setting its sights on expanding its presence in the U.S. and Europe. This includes strengthening its base in Italy, where a majority of its manufacturing activities are carried out. The company has also inaugurated new offices in Austin and Chicago. Violante pointed out the increasing pressure to use specific components and to localize manufacturing, especially in light of the CHIPS Act in the U.S. and the EU Cybersecurity Act. Arduino’s strategic positioning has allowed it to navigate these challenges effectively.
In conclusion, Arduino’s journey from being a favorite among hobbyists to its current enterprise-focused trajectory is a testament to its adaptability and vision. With fresh funding and a clear roadmap, the company is poised to make significant strides in the enterprise sector.
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