US-based microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology supplier Qualtré has raised $9m in a series D round partially funded by electronic components producer Alps Electric.
Alps was one of two strategic backers in the round, though Qualtré did not disclose the identity of the second. Matrix Partners and Pilot House Ventures, both of which backed the company’s $8m series C round in March this year, also participated.
Qualtré, which has now raised $43m since it was founded in 2008, manufactures MEMS motion sensors. The funding will be invested in sales and marketing, product development and the scaling of the company’s operations.
Yasuo Sasao, director of Alps Electric’s components business, said: “Whereas Alps Electric’s strong sensor portfolio benefits from Qualtré’s superior inertial MEMS technology and performance, Qualtré is able to benefit from Alps Electric’s manufacturing efficiencies, to support high production volumes at attractive price points, and ability to access a broad customer base.
“We have been extremely impressed by the initial response to Qualtré’s best-in-class products and are looking forward to our continued work together to provide outstanding experiences for our new and existing customers.”