AI startup CVector raises $5M for its industrial ‘nervous system’

CVector, an industrial AI startup based in New York, has developed an AI-powered software platform described as a "brain and nervous system" for large-scale industrial operations. Founded by Richard Zhang and Tyler Ruggles, the company aims to help industrial clients—ranging from public utilities to advanced manufacturers and chemical producers—translate operational actions into measurable financial savings. Since launching its system with real customers, CVector has demonstrated its ability to optimize processes such as equipment downtime prediction, energy efficiency monitoring, and commodity price tracking, thereby enabling clients to improve operational economics and margins. The startup recently closed a $5 million seed funding round led by Powerhouse Ventures, with participation from Fusion Fund, Myriad Venture Partners, and Hitachi’s corporate venture arm. This financing milestone reflects growing investor confidence and supports CVector’s expansion, including hiring talent from fintech and hedge funds to leverage data-driven financial insights. Customers include traditional industrial firms like ATEK Metal Technologies, which produces aluminum castings for Harley-Davidson