Helio, a Zurich-based startup pioneering a new approach to cloud computing by addressing its environmental and efficiency pitfalls, has closed a CHF 4.7 seed round, combining equity and debt. QBIT Capital led the round. The capital will enable product enhancements to make cloud computing more sustainable and efficient, team growth and expansion in new markets, particularly 3D Rendering and AI.
Founded by Kevin Häfeli and Christoph Buchli in 2019, Helio aims to democratise computing, empowering anyone using technology to solve the world’s most complex challenges. The startup uses a unique real-time algorithm that improves cloud resource allocation by rerouting computing tasks to underused or renewable-energy-powered data centres. This approach tackles the dual challenges of poor efficiency—currently below 20% in the industry—and high environmental impact. As the sector is poised to account for 6% of the world’s electricity usage by 2030, Helio’s model offers a greener and more cost-effective alternative. The company has set a bold target of reducing CO2 emissions by 200Mt by 2030.
The proceeds from its seed investment round will be used to expand the team and accelerate advancements in several critical areas of the platform. These include optimising carbon-aware workload scheduling, increasing the network of green data centres, enriching the cloud spot market with excess capacity, and developing their 3D rendering capabilities for the VFX market. The funding also sets the stage for Helio to accelerate its market penetration, particularly in areas like 3D rendering and AI, as it capitalises on the booming demand for sustainable, efficient, and affordable cloud computing.
Alongside lead investor QBIT Capital, the startup attracted notable sustainability and deep-tech investors, including Uebermorgen Ventures, seed+speed Ventures, Combination VC, Rockstart Energy Fund, ROI Ventures, Swisspreneur, and Cloud Angel Investors.
In addition to the equity round, Helio obtained debt financing from ZKB, secured by the Swiss Technology Fund instrument, which provides loan guarantees to Swiss companies whose novel products contribute to a sustainable reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, reinforcing the project's alignment with innovative climate protection goals.
Commenting on QBIT Capital’s investment in Helio, Luis Huber said: “We see Helio as a game-changer in both sustainability and cloud computing efficiency. Their innovative model addresses pressing industry challenges, making this a strategic and timely investment for us. We're excited to be part of their journey towards reshaping a more sustainable digital future.”
"As we accelerate our mission to transform the cloud computing industry into a model of efficiency and sustainability, this capital enables us to reduce both cloud spending and emissions for our customers. We are particularly excited to unlock new types of data centres as we make strides in key areas like 3D rendering and AI. The future of cloud computing is here, and it's more sustainable and efficient than ever,” said CEO and Co-Founder of Helio, Kevin Häfeli.
(Press release/RAN)
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