SoftBank and Nvidia reportedly in talks to fund Skild AI at $14B, nearly tripling its value

SoftBank and Nvidia eye a significant investment in Skild AI, a robotics software startup, nearly tripling its valuation in under six months.

**SoftBank and Nvidia are reportedly in talks to lead a $1 billion investment in Skild AI, pushing its valuation to $14 billion.** This represents a significant increase from its last valuation of $4.7 billion just seven months ago. Skild AI, a startup focused on developing a foundational robotics model, has garnered considerable attention from investors as the AI robotics sector continues to grow. The company's innovative approach emphasizes software development rather than proprietary hardware, allowing for greater adaptability across various robotic applications. This shift towards software-centric solutions is becoming increasingly important in the robotics industry, where flexibility and integration capabilities are key to meeting diverse market needs. As a result, Skild AI is positioned to capitalize on the expanding demand for advanced robotic solutions across multiple sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics.

Investment Details

SoftBank and Nvidia's potential investment would significantly enhance Skild AI's financial backing, allowing it to expand its operations and technology. The company previously raised $500 million in May 2025, led by SoftBank, with participation from major players like LG Technology Ventures and Samsung. This new funding round, if finalized, would not only bolster Skild's resources but also signal strong confidence from two of the tech industry's giants. Such backing could enable Skild AI to accelerate its research and development efforts, hire additional talent, and scale its operations to meet growing demand. Furthermore, the involvement of SoftBank and Nvidia, both known for their strategic investments in technology, could open up new opportunities for collaboration and innovation within the robotics sector.

Skild AI's Unique Approach

Unlike many competitors, Skild AI is not focused on creating proprietary hardware. Instead, it is developing a robot-agnostic foundational model, Skild Brain, which can be tailored for various robotic applications. This flexibility allows Skild to cater to a wide range of industries, enhancing its appeal to investors and partners alike. The company showcased its capabilities in July with demonstrations of robots performing tasks like climbing stairs and handling dishes. By prioritizing software over hardware, Skild AI positions itself as a versatile player in the robotics field, capable of adapting its technology to different robotic platforms and use cases. This approach not only reduces development costs but also accelerates the deployment of robotic solutions across various sectors, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to integrate automation into their operations.

Growing Interest in AI Robotics

The investment landscape for AI robotics is rapidly evolving, with increasing interest from venture capitalists. Companies like Physical Intelligence and Figure have recently secured substantial funding, indicating a robust market for robotics solutions. Physical Intelligence raised $600 million at a $5.6 billion valuation, while Figure's humanoid robot garnered over $1 billion at a staggering $39 billion valuation. This trend highlights the potential for significant returns in the AI robotics sector. As more investors recognize the transformative potential of robotics and AI technologies, funding for innovative startups is likely to increase. This influx of capital can drive advancements in robotics, leading to new applications and improved efficiencies across various industries, from healthcare to manufacturing.

Strategic Partnerships

Skild AI has formed strategic alliances with industry leaders such as LG CNS and Hewlett Packard Enterprise. These partnerships are crucial for developing a comprehensive ecosystem around its robotics model, enhancing its market position. Collaborations with established companies not only provide technical support but also open doors to new markets and applications for Skild's technology. By leveraging the expertise and resources of its partners, Skild AI can accelerate its product development and improve its offerings. Additionally, these alliances may facilitate access to advanced technologies and research, further strengthening Skild's competitive edge in the rapidly evolving robotics landscape.

Market Implications

The potential investment from SoftBank and Nvidia could reshape the competitive landscape of AI robotics. As Skild AI's valuation skyrockets, it may attract further attention from other investors and tech companies. This could lead to a wave of innovation and competition in the robotics space, pushing the boundaries of what AI can achieve in real-world applications. Increased investment in the sector may also spur advancements in AI algorithms, machine learning, and robotics hardware, resulting in more sophisticated and capable robotic systems. As companies strive to differentiate themselves in this burgeoning market, consumers and businesses alike stand to benefit from enhanced robotic solutions that improve efficiency, safety, and productivity across various sectors.

Why it matters

Significant investment could accelerate Skild AI's growth and innovation.
Highlights the increasing investor confidence in AI robotics.
Demonstrates a shift towards software-centric robotics solutions.
Potential to reshape the competitive landscape in the robotics industry.

Key numbers

$14 billion - new valuation for Skild AI
$1 billion - potential investment amount
$4.7 billion - previous valuation in May 2025

Context

Skild AI is part of a burgeoning sector where AI and robotics intersect, attracting major investments as companies seek to innovate and automate.

SoftBank and Nvidia reportedly in talks to fund Skild AI at $14B, nearly tripling its value