The future of Deep Tech

TL;DR

Bessemer's deep tech team invests in groundbreaking companies in aerospace, quantum computing, and sustainable agriculture, pushing the boundaries of science and solving major problems for humanity.

Transcript

Hi, I'm David Cowan. Today, my partner Tess and I'll tell you how Bessemer's deep tech team invests in companies to advance the fields of aerospace, quantum computing, and sustainable agriculture. While Bessemer's funded biotech startups since 1986, we mostly avoided other kinds of scientific risks in the portfolio until about 2010. That's when we ... Read More

Key Insights

• 💨 Skybox's success paved the way for Bessemer to continue investing in deep tech startups, with a focus on aerospace, quantum computing, and sustainable agriculture.
• 🚀 Additive manufacturing, specifically 3D printing, is revolutionizing rocket engine design and enabling the development of smaller, cheaper rockets for space missions.
• ❓ Bessemer's investments in various companies, such as Rocket Lab, Spire Global, Boom Supersonic, and Drone Deploy, highlight their commitment to advancing technology in the aerospace industry.
• 🙈 Quantum computing is seen as one of the most important scientific inventions of the 21st century, with the potential to solve complex problems across various industries.
• 🧘 Bessemer has made strategic investments in quantum computing companies like Rigetti and Xanadu, positioning the firm as a leader in this field.
• 🍖 The intersection of AI, robotics, and biotech presents opportunities for disruptive innovation in the agriculture sector, with companies like Black Sheep Foods and Atomo Coffee developing sustainable alternatives for meat and coffee.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did Skybox disrupt the space industry?

Skybox's constellation of cheap microsats made from cell phone parts disrupted the traditional model of commercializing space, which used expensive satellites with long missions. Their success marked the beginning of the new space economy.

Q: What advancements has Bessemer funded in rocket engine design?

Bessemer funded Velo3D, the most advanced 3D metal printer used by new rocket companies. This technology enables faster, more complex, and higher-performing rocket engine parts than conventional machining methods.

Q: What success has Rocket Lab achieved?

Rocket Lab, funded by Bessemer, has completed 20 successful missions, delivering over a hundred satellites to orbit. They have also gone public via SPAC and received strong reception on NASDAQ.

Q: How has Bessemer invested in the agricultural sector?

Bessemer has funded startups in sustainable agriculture, such as Black Sheep Foods, which developed plant-based alternatives for lamb, and Atomo Coffee, which produces beanless coffee using sustainable ingredients. They are disrupting the food supply chain with innovative solutions.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Bessemer funded Skybox, a satellite startup that disrupted the space industry with a constellation of cheap microsats, leading to the success of the new space economy.

• The company also invested in Velo3D, the most advanced 3D metal printer used for rocket engine parts, and Rocket Lab, a hybrid rocket engine company that has successfully launched missions to space.

• Bessemer's investments extend to other areas such as Spire Global for Earth sensing satellites, Boom Supersonic for supersonic passenger travel, and Drone Deploy for drone software.