Vancouver’s GroundedAI Secures $2 Million in Funding
GroundedAI, a company specializing in AI-driven software for tunnel construction, has successfully raised $2 million in its latest funding round. The round, which took place on July 16, 2026, was led by StandUp Ventures. Other investors included Accelia, BoxOne Ventures, The51, LOI Venture, and SOSV.
Company Overview
Based in Vancouver, British Columbia, GroundedAI is developing a digital platform aimed at improving the understanding of subsurface conditions for tunnel builders. The software is designed to assist engineers, geologists, and project managers in capturing, communicating, and analyzing field data concerning ground composition and rock quality using artificial intelligence.
Leadership Team
The company was co-founded by Shelby Yee, who serves as CEO, and Stuart Bourne, the Chief Technology Officer. Yee emphasized the importance of real-time data in avoiding common pitfalls in large infrastructure projects, stating: "Building projects based on real-time data rather than pre-existing models’ best interpretations will be critical to ensuring they stay on time and on budget."
Use of Funds
The newly acquired funds will be utilized to expand GroundedAI’s team from seven to eleven employees. Furthermore, the company plans to increase its presence across North America, aiming to support Canada's push for more major infrastructure projects under Prime Minister Mark Carney.
The Need for Innovation in Tunnel Construction
GroundedAI aims to address the challenges faced in tunnel construction, such as cost overruns due to unaccounted-for ground risks. The company’s AI-driven approach seeks to replace outdated methods like paper sketches and disparate mobile photos with a centralized, digital system.
By providing more accurate and timely data, GroundedAI hopes to mitigate risks and reduce the likelihood of projects going over budget, as seen in past projects like the Eglinton Crosstown LRT and Niagara hydro tunnel.
Conclusion
With this new funding, GroundedAI is well-positioned to make significant strides in the field of tunnel construction. As the demand for efficient and cost-effective infrastructure projects grows, the company’s innovative software solutions could play a crucial role in shaping the future of construction engineering.