Dutch audio tech startup Axign raises $14m to develop its audio chips for earbuds, smart speakers

Axign BV, a Dutch fabless semiconductor company specialized in audio controller components, has raised more than $3M in additional capital from Atlantic Bridge and Ten Cate Investeringsmaatschappij (TCIM). The financing expands Axign’s previously announced venture round led by FORWARD.one in March 2021 in which also the existing investors Innovation Industries, KBC Focus Fund, Oost NL & Axign FBA participated. The second close brings the total round to $14M.

“We are very pleased to bring both investors on-board. Atlantic Bridge is a leading technology investor and will bring significant international and industry expertise, the entrepreneurship of TCIM is also a key asset” said Axign’s CEO Paul Sandberg.

This investment round is a clear proof point of Axign’s strong commercial traction as well as an underpinning of the recognized potential of the company’s core technology. The funding will enable Axign to accelerate commercialization of its products, more specifically to strengthen its worldwide commercial and field application organization to drive the fast-growing customer pipeline of high-volume A-brand audio players. The funding will also enable the company to develop its next generation audio chip for battery operated products, including earbuds and smart speakers. Axign’s technology will disrupt these fast-growing high-volume markets by offering unique Adaptive Noise Cancellation technology in earbuds and will provide next level Voice Control in smart speakers.

“Atlantic Bridge is delighted to be working with Axign’s exceptional management team, who have experience leading high-profile semiconductor and electronics companies. Axign’s highly differentiated core technology is already addressing significant market needs and we look forward to supporting the company on its journey to offer the ultimate audio experience in fast-growth, high-volume markets” said Gerry Maguire, General Partner, Atlantic Bridge.

“TCIM is the investment vehicle of the Ten Cate family, with deep roots in the Twente region. TCIM is proud to support Axign, a highly innovative and promising company founded in Twente with a global ambition” said TCIM.