50 Early-Stage Investors Identified to Bolster Hardware Sector Funding

Erik Bruckner, General Partner at Bruckner Ventures, has compiled a list of 50 early-stage investors specifically targeting hardware startups, as announced in a recent tweet. This initiative aims to connect burgeoning hardware companies with crucial capital, addressing a historically challenging funding landscape for physical product development. The list, shared by Bruckner on social media, features prominent names such as @abemurray, @alexiskold, @alexisohanian, and @arian_ghashghai, among others, signaling a focused effort to catalyze innovation in the hardware space.

Hardware ventures inherently face higher capital requirements and longer development cycles compared to their software counterparts. Prototyping, manufacturing, and supply chain complexities demand substantial upfront investment, often making fundraising more arduous. Despite these hurdles, the sector is experiencing a "hardware renaissance," driven by advancements in areas like AI-driven hardware, robotics, and cleantech. Global funding for hardware startups reached $18.5 billion in 2023, a 32% increase from 2021, reflecting renewed investor confidence.

The increasing interest in hardware is also evident in the growth of specialized venture capital firms and accelerators. Initiatives like Bruckner's list are vital in bridging the funding gap, particularly for early-stage companies that require patient capital to mature. While early-stage funding has seen some decline in broader venture capital trends, specific sectors like advanced hardware and technology are attracting significant attention. For instance, a recent report highlighted a notable surge in hardware investment in H1 2025, nearly one-third of the cumulative total since 2014.

Beyond traditional venture capital, alternative funding strategies such as equity crowdfunding and government grants are also playing an increasing role. These diverse funding avenues, coupled with a growing ecosystem of specialized investors, are crucial for hardware startups navigating the path from concept to market. Bruckner's curated list serves as a valuable resource, streamlining the connection between innovative hardware founders and the capital necessary to drive the next wave of technological advancements.