The smart home industry in the US integrates advanced technology to create automated and efficient living spaces. Various companies, ranging from startups to established tech giants, develop products that enhance convenience, security, and energy management in homes. Offerings include smart thermostats, lighting, security systems, and voice assistants, among others. The industry continues to witness rapid growth, propelled by rising consumer demand for energy efficiency and smart living solutions. As technology continues to evolve, emerging trends like AI-enabled devices and seamless integrations into daily life are reshaping how we perceive home automation and convenience.

This list features 15 noteworthy investors pivotal to the smart home industry in the US, representing venture capital and corporate sectors. Notably, many are headquartered in tech hubs like California and New York, with a collective deal count exceeding 1,297 in 2024 alone. These investors differ in size, from small teams to multi-thousand employee firms, and were founded as early as 1977. The range of engagement showcases the vibrant interest in smart home technologies, marking a significant investment area for economic advancement and innovation.

Top 15 Smart Home Investors in the US

1. Y Combinator

• Website: ycombinator.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 802
• LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It provides funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies through a structured program that includes resources like the Startup School and co-founder matching services. Y Combinator has successfully launched over 4,000 startups, making it a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its notable investments in the smart home sector are Kuna, which raised $120,000 in a Seed Round in 2014, and Lockitron, which also raised an undisclosed amount in a Seed Round in 2009. These investments highlight Y Combinator's engagement with companies that are innovating in the smart home space, further solidifying its role as a relevant investor in this industry.

2. Intel Capital

• Website: intelcapital.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 23
• LinkedIn: intelcapital

Intel Capital is a venture capital firm based in Santa Clara, California, founded in 1991. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, with a focus on areas such as AI, cloud computing, and semiconductor technologies. Intel Capital provides funding, strategic support, and access to Intel's extensive resources to help startups scale and innovate within the tech ecosystem. Notably, Intel Capital has invested in companies relevant to the smart home industry, including IOTAS, which raised funds to enhance its Enterprise SaaS platform for Smart Communities, and Deep Sentinel, which focuses on smart home security solutions. These transactions highlight Intel Capital's engagement in the smart home sector, showcasing their commitment to supporting innovative technologies that enhance home automation and security.

3. Sosv

• Website: sosv.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 170
• LinkedIn: sosv

SOSV is a venture capital firm founded in 1995, specializing in funding and supporting deep tech startups through its development programs. With a global reach, SOSV connects innovative companies with investors, providing not only venture capital investment but also resources to help startups grow and succeed. Notably, SOSV has been involved in several funding rounds for Flair, a San Francisco-based smart energy startup. Flair raised USD 7.6 million in Series A funding in September 2022, with SOSV as a participant, showcasing their interest in smart home technologies that focus on energy efficiency. Additionally, SOSV participated in earlier funding rounds for Flair, including a $2,075,000 venture round in April 2021 and a seed round of $810,000 in January 2019. These transactions highlight SOSV's active role in the smart home industry, particularly in the context of energy management solutions.

4. Plug and Play Tech Center

• Website: plugandplaytechcenter.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Sunnyvale, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 501-1000
• Number of deals in 2024: 253
• LinkedIn: plug-and-play-tech-center

Plug and Play Tech Center is an innovation hub and venture capital firm based in Sunnyvale, California, founded in 2006. They connect startups with corporations to foster growth and innovation, offering various programs including accelerator initiatives and investment opportunities. In 2024 alone, they made 253 investments, showcasing their active role in the venture capital landscape. Notably, they have invested in companies relevant to the smart home industry, such as Scout Security, which raised funds in a seed round in 2014, focusing on home security solutions. Other investments include Tochtech and MiiCare, both of which raised funds in 2024, indicating their ongoing commitment to supporting emerging technologies. Their diverse portfolio and focus on technology startups position them as a significant player in the smart home investment arena.

5. Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)

• Website: av.vc
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2023
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 258
• LinkedIn: deep-tech-fund-av-focused-fund

Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded in 2023. The firm provides accredited investors and institutions with access to professionally-managed, diversified venture portfolios, leveraging a network of over 10,000 investors. The fund has been active in the smart home sector, with notable investments including Deako, a Seattle startup that develops smart light switches, and SimpliSafe, a home security company. Additionally, they have invested in Kangaroo, which focuses on home security solutions, and Knoq, which is involved in smart home technology. These transactions highlight the fund's commitment to supporting innovative startups in the smart home industry.

6. 500 Global

• Website: 500.co
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 98
• LinkedIn: 500-startups

500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing not only funding but also mentorship and resources to help founders scale their businesses. Among their notable transactions, 500 Global has invested in Haiven Home, which focuses on smart home solutions, and OhmConnect, a company that helps consumers manage their energy usage through smart technology. These investments highlight 500 Global's engagement in the smart home industry, alongside their broader strategy of supporting innovative startups across various sectors.

7. U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

• Website: energy.gov
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 597
• LinkedIn: u-s--department-of-energy

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is a public entity established in 1977, responsible for overseeing national energy policy, energy production, and nuclear power research. It serves various stakeholders, including government entities and the public, by providing guidance on energy efficiency, funding opportunities, and conducting research to address energy challenges. In recent years, the DOE has been involved in several transactions that support the development of smart home technologies. For instance, it provided $1.5 million in grants to Tynt Technologies, which focuses on energy efficiency solutions. Additionally, the DOE awarded $2 million to Harvest Thermal and $1.1 million to Blip Energy in 2024, both of which are working on innovative energy solutions that can enhance smart home capabilities. These transactions highlight the DOE's commitment to fostering advancements in energy efficiency, which is a critical component of smart home technology.

8. Hax

• Website: hax.co
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 55
• LinkedIn: hax

HAX is a venture capital firm and startup incubator based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2012. They specialize in supporting hard tech startups by providing funding, engineering support, and access to manufacturing resources. HAX aims to accelerate the growth of early-stage companies by fostering a collaborative environment and leveraging extensive networks. Notably, HAX has invested in Flair, a San Francisco-based smart energy startup, participating in multiple funding rounds including a Seed Round in 2019 and a Series A round in 2022, where Flair raised a total of $7.6 million. This investment highlights HAX's engagement in the smart home industry, particularly in the realm of energy efficiency and management, which is a critical component of smart home technology.

9. New Enterprise Associates (NEA)

• Website: nea.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 57
• LinkedIn: new-enterprise-associates

New Enterprise Associates (NEA) is a venture capital firm founded in 1977, based in Menlo Park, California. The firm specializes in investment management and advisory services for startups, particularly in the technology and healthcare sectors. NEA partners with entrepreneurs to provide funding and strategic guidance, helping them navigate the challenges of building successful businesses. They emphasize long-term relationships with founders and a collaborative approach to investment. NEA has been involved in several significant transactions in the smart home context, including multiple funding rounds for Tuya, a leading IoT and voice AI platform, where they participated in Series A, B, and C funding rounds. Additionally, NEA invested in Ketra, a company that focuses on smart lighting solutions, and Sengled, known for its smart lighting products. These investments highlight NEA's commitment to supporting innovation in the smart home industry.

10. Qualcomm Ventures

• Website: qualcommventures.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 18
• LinkedIn: qualcomm-ventures

Qualcomm Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Diego, California, founded in 2000. The firm specializes in investing in early to growth stage technology companies, particularly within the wireless ecosystem. They provide both capital and strategic support to startups across various sectors, including automotive, digital health, and IoT. Notably, Qualcomm Ventures has made significant investments in the smart home industry, participating in funding rounds for companies such as Ring, which raised $109 million in Series D funding, and August Home, which secured $25 million in Series C funding. Additionally, they have invested in August Home's Series B round, contributing to the company's growth in home access solutions. Their involvement with LIFX, a smart lighting company, and eero, a home Wi-Fi system provider, further highlights their commitment to the smart home sector. Qualcomm Ventures' diverse portfolio and strategic focus on technology make them a key player in the smart home investment landscape.

11. Amazon

• Website: amazon.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 37
• LinkedIn: amazon

Amazon.com, Inc. is a multinational technology company based in Seattle, Washington, primarily known for its e-commerce platform. Founded in 1994, Amazon has expanded its services to include cloud computing, online advertising, digital streaming, and artificial intelligence. As an investor, Amazon has made significant strides in the smart home industry, notably through its acquisition of Ring in 2018 for $1 billion, which has positioned Amazon as a leader in smart home security solutions. Additionally, Amazon has invested in ecobee, a company specializing in smart home technologies, participating in multiple funding rounds to support their growth. These strategic investments highlight Amazon's commitment to enhancing its smart home product offerings and integrating them into its broader ecosystem.

12. Tiger Global

• Website: tigerglobal.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 25
• LinkedIn: tiger-global-management

Tiger Global Management, LLC is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in both public and private equity investments. Founded in 2001, the firm manages approximately $50 billion and focuses on innovative companies leveraging technology. Their client base includes institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals seeking expert investment management and advisory services. Notably, Tiger Global has participated in significant funding rounds for companies that align with smart home technologies, such as MyGate, which raised $56 million for security management solutions, and Humane, which has raised substantial funding to develop innovative tech solutions. These transactions highlight Tiger Global's commitment to investing in technology that could enhance smart home capabilities, making them a relevant player in this space.

13. Khosla Ventures

• Website: khoslaventures.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 97
• LinkedIn: khosla-ventures

Khosla Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2004, based in Menlo Park, California. The firm specializes in providing funding and strategic guidance to startups across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and sustainability. Notably, Khosla Ventures has made significant investments in the smart home industry, particularly through their involvement with Canary, a smart home security company. Khosla Ventures participated in multiple funding rounds for Canary, including a Series C round of $31 million in November 2016, a Series B round of $30 million in June 2015, and additional rounds in 2017 and 2018, totaling over $60 million in investments. This track record highlights Khosla Ventures' commitment to fostering innovation in the smart home market, making them a key player in this sector.

14. FJ Labs

• Website: fjlabs.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 169
• LinkedIn: fj-labs

FJ Labs is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2015, that specializes in investing in marketplace and network effect businesses. With a focus on providing capital and strategic guidance to entrepreneurs, FJ Labs has built an extensive portfolio of over 1,000 companies, many of which have achieved unicorn status. Notably, FJ Labs has participated in several transactions relevant to the smart home industry, including Zero Homes, which raised funds in 2023, and Alfred, which also secured funding in 2023. Additionally, their investment in KitchenMate, a company focused on kitchen solutions, highlights their engagement in the smart home sector. This diverse investment strategy showcases FJ Labs' commitment to supporting innovative startups across various industries, including smart home technologies.

15. Goldman Sachs

• Website: goldmansachs.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 59
• LinkedIn: goldman-sachs

Goldman Sachs is an investment bank and financial services firm founded in 1998, based in New York, New York. The firm provides a wide range of services including investment banking, asset management, and wealth management, catering to a diverse clientele that includes corporations, financial institutions, and individuals. Notably, Goldman Sachs has been involved in several significant transactions within the smart home context, particularly with Vivint, a leading smart home technology provider. They facilitated multiple rounds of debt financing for Vivint, including $365 million in 2009, $125 million in 2010, and additional amounts in subsequent years, totaling over $600 million. This involvement highlights Goldman Sachs' commitment to supporting innovation and growth in the smart home industry.

Smart Home Insights: Key Investors in the US

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