Former OpenAI research chief launches manufacturing AI startup Arda

Arda Industries, founded by former OpenAI research chief Bob McGrew, emerged from stealth on Tuesday with 232 million dollars in total funding at a 1.5 billion dollar valuation. The Next Web and Pluang reported that the startup develops artificial intelligence software designed to convert new product designs into functioning assembly lines to accelerate American manufacturing. [1][5]

The financing includes a 160 million dollar Series A round co-led by Altimeter, Accel, and Khosla Ventures, according to The Next Web. The publication added that XYZ Venture Capital, 8VC, SV Angel, and Felicis also participated. The round follows an earlier 72 million dollar seed funding round led by Accel and Founders Fund. [1]

McGrew launched the company in 2025 and stated in an interview with CNBC that he aims to build an automated industrial presence in West Texas, according to The Next Web. The report noted that defense technology firm Anduril has already spent the past year using Arda software as a design partner. [1]

OpenAI, where McGrew previously served as research chief, is a San Francisco artificial intelligence firm led by Chief Executive Officer Sam Altman. Founders Fund, which led Arda seed funding, was co-founded by venture capitalist Peter Thiel. [1][6][7]