Just heard of a company based both in San Francisco and Trondheim, Norway working in the robotic space. The problem it is solving is commanding industrial robots to perform pre-trained tasks without programming. Using AI training specific to the robot and applications, Trener Robotics’ Acteris platform allows operators to talk to robots in their own words to execute pre-trained skills.
I guess it’s inevitable that Alexa and Siri (hopefully better than the Apple version) gain industrial employment.
Trener Robotics today announced this week it has raised a $32 million Series A round of funding. Co-led by existing investor Engine Ventures and new investor IAG Capital Partners with participation from strategic investors Cadence and Geodesic Capital, through Nikon’s NFocus Fund, the new capital brings Trener Robotics’ total funding to over $38 million and will be used to support training Trener Robotics’ platform Acteris with new industrial robot processes, distribution expansion into new markets, and hiring talent to address rapidly scaling demand.
Unlike brittle, narrowly scripted systems or research-first generalist platforms, Acteris is a practical, shop-floor-proven solution. Trener Robotics’ first focus area is robotic CNC machine-tending with other high-demand applications to follow in 2026. Manufacturers using Acteris gain:
- A groundbreaking agentic user interface that enables robots to be controlled through natural conversation, intuitive task sequences, and high-fidelity simulation. It empowers any user, regardless of robotics expertise, to effortlessly run high-performance robotic applications.
- Part identification and handling even under adverse conditions.
- Optimized robot motions that react to changes, delivering unprecedented robustness.
- Intelligent collision avoidance and enhanced safety features that mimic common sense.
- Real-time production dashboards for performance monitoring.
Trener Robotics has built rapid momentum with more than 15 solution and integration partners across Europe and the U.S. that now provide Acteris-powered turnkey solutions—including the robot, gripper, and software—all pre-integrated and production-ready. Acteris is currently directly compatible with ABB, Universal Robots, and FANUC, with more leading robot brands to follow.
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