Nominal Series C funding has reached $240 million, valuing the AI hardware engineering startup at $3 billion. The Austin-based company announced the investment Monday, Nov. 9, tripling its valuation in eight months.
Lightspeed Venture Partners led the round, with Insight Partners serving as co-lead. The financing follows a $155 million Series B extension in March, when Nominal was valued at $1 billion.
In its official announcement, Nominal said the funding would support its AI platform for engineering complex hardware. The technology helps teams analyze testing data from aircraft, nuclear reactors, autonomous systems and industrial equipment.
Nominal Series C Funding Follows Rapid Growth
Nominal serves more than 80 commercial and government organizations, including defense contractor Anduril. Other investors include Sequoia, General Catalyst, Lux Capital and Founders Fund.
The March financing was led by Founders Fund partner Trae Stephens, who also co-founded Anduril. The investor reportedly initiated the investment rather than Nominal requesting it.
The company also secured a $71.2 million Strategic Funding Increase package in October. The Air Force and Navy-backed program includes $41.2 million in government funding and $30 million in private matching funds.
AI Platform Supports Complex Hardware Testing
Nominal’s software connects engineering data, testing systems and AI tools to help teams investigate hardware performance. Its platform supports aerospace, defense, energy and advanced manufacturing applications.
CEO and co-founder Cameron McCord previously served as a U.S. Navy submarine officer and worked at Anduril.
According to a company-issued funding release, Nominal plans to expand its engineering applications and AI agents. The startup is also pursuing growth across additional industries and international markets.
The new investment strengthens Nominal’s position in AI-powered hardware engineering as it expands beyond its original defense-sector customer base.
