UptimeAI, a leading AI-based digital transformation solution provider for the energy, chemicals, and heavy industries, has raised a total of $3.5 Million in funding led by Emergent Ventures. Joining the round are existing investors YourNest Venture Capital and new investors Sharad Sanghi, AI Sprouts, and Venture Catalysts. 

With the funding, UptimeAI plans to expand in the US to cater to its growing customer base.

Founded by Jagadish Gattu and Vamsi Yalamanchili, UptimeAI offers an AI-based virtual assistant software that uses patented self-learning workflows and system models to deliver human-like learning and diagnosis. The software empowers operators to improve reliability, performance, and energy efficiency with less effort. The result is 10x improvements in ROI over traditional predictive analytics and asset performance management solutions. Over the past 1.5 years, UptimeAI has deployed its solution for Fortune 500 companies across Asia, ME, and North America in power generation, renewables, oil and gas, chemicals, LNG, and cement.

"Traditional digital tools provide KPIs, dashboards, and data analysis tools, which require weeks of manual effort to troubleshoot, build and maintain data science models. Instead of endless pilots, operations and remote monitoring teams are looking for automated intelligence that detects the reason for losses, suggests mitigation, and gets smarter like an expert," said Jagadish Gattu, CEO of UptimeAI. 

"In UptimeAI, we found a start-up that is developing a comprehensive and purpose-built AI solution for manufacturing based on a deep understanding of operational challenges," said Girish Shivani, executive director and fund manager, YourNest Venture Capital.

"There used to be a time when young graduates would join heavy industrial companies and work there till they retired. Now, these companies compete for talent with digital-first companies, and retaining talent is not easy. This industry is in a transition," said Ankur Jain, Partner, Emergent Ventures.