Swiss startup Ascento raises USD 4.3 Million to launch autonomous security patrolling robot

15.09.2023

Ascento's autonomous security patrolling robots are currently deployed in expansive outdoor warehouses and on industrial manufacturing and pharmaceutical campuses. The rapidly expanding startup is now introducing its latest creation, the Ascento Guard robot. This continued growth is made possible by fresh investments from seasoned investors.

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Ascento's co-founders: Dominik Mannhart, Alessandro Morra, Ciro Salzmann, and Miguel de la Iglesia Valls
Due to severe labour shortages affecting the security industry, companies are encountering difficulties in meeting their contractual commitments or securing new business opportunities. To address this critical issue, the robotics startup, Ascento, has announced a successful funding round of USD 4.3 Million today, coinciding with the launch of their latest autonomous outdoor security patrolling robot, the Ascento Guard.

Ascento's advanced robots, known for their unique wheel-leg design, excel in navigating outdoor terrain with agility and stability. Deployed extensively this year, they've covered over 3000 kilometres for outdoor security at industrial sites. With a growing team of over ten members and a fleet mileage increasing by over 70% monthly in 2023, Ascento serves a diverse clientele, including large warehouses, manufacturing, and pharmaceutical facilities.

Today, Ascento introduces the Ascento Guard—an advanced autonomous outdoor security robot. It can detect unauthorized individuals, ensure perimeter integrity, monitor doors, windows, and lighting, and handle parking lots. Operating at 4.5 km/h with autonomous charging, it offers continuous security without human intervention.

Installation takes hours, reducing costs and adapting to changing security needs. Similar to hiring a human guard, the Ascento Guard can be hired hourly, providing deployment, 24/7 support, service, and repairs. The Ascento App uses AI for video analysis, integrates with existing systems, offers secure communication, and generates tailored reports for security managers.

Alessandro Morra, Ascento's CEO, said, "We aim to cut operational expenses in the industry. Ascento Guard combines technical reliability with human-like flexibility, addressing labour shortages and camera installation costs."

The pre-seed funding, led by Wingman Ventures and Playfair, featured prominent investors: Tim Kentley-Klay (Zoox founder), Ryan Gariepy (Clearpath Robotics and OTTO Motors CTO), Daniel Kottlarz (MYBOTSHOP founder), and Tobias Redlin (IGO3D founder). Additionally, Ascento secured non-dilutive funding from Innosuisse and ESA BIC.

Ascento won Venture Kick Stage 2 in 2023 and was ranked in the TOP 100 Swiss Startup Award 2023.


Ascento's co-founders: Dominik Mannhart, Alessandro Morra, Ciro Salzmann, and Miguel de la Iglesia Valls

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