Finnish contech start-up Make a BIM has raised pre-seed funding to scale its operations and further develop its AI-powered automation technology
Founded in 2023, Make a BIM uses AI to generate digital models of existing buildings.
Its technology converts 2D drawings into BIM models within minutes, reducing the need for repetitive manual tasks.
This not only streamlines the renovation process but also helps ensure compliance with regulatory standards, offering a more efficient pathway to carbon neutrality.
Addressing Europe’s urgent building challenge
The European Union faces a significant challenge: 97% of its buildings require upgrades to meet the goal of a decarbonized building stock by 2050.
This issue is particularly pressing as 85% of these structures were built before 2000, with 75% exhibiting poor energy performance.
To meet the EU’s ambitious climate targets and comply with the upcoming Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), set to take effect in 2026, widespread renovation is necessary. The EPBD aims to drive energy efficiency, stimulate extensive renovations and transition Europe to zero-emission buildings.
“Buildings consume 40% of Europe’s energy, primarily for heating and cooling. While much attention is given to electric cars, the fundamental challenges around buildings often go unnoticed, even though they impact everyone,” said Leo Salomaa, Co-Founder of Make a BIM.
A crucial tool in achieving these renovations is Building Information Modeling (BIM). However, many existing buildings lack digitalized or 3D blueprints, posing a significant barrier to meeting the EU’s goals. Creating and implementing BIM will be essential for obtaining building permits and ensuring that upgrades meet modern energy standards.
This is where Make a BIM’s automation technology can help.
“We’ve already created models for over 100 buildings in Finland and abroad. Many of these models, including those for HEKA, have been used to optimize energy renovations. We’re now planning to scale this solution globally, with interest from as far as the US and Asia,” said Salomaa.
Kiilto Ventures backs Make a BIM as lead investor
Make a BIM’s funding round was led by Kiilto Ventures, the venture capital arm of Finnish chemical solutions specialist Kiilto, which focuses on early-stage start-ups tackling the biggest problems in the built environment.
Additional investments came from Innovestor and angels from the Finnish Business Angels Network, including Kim Väisänen, Esa Kinnunen, and Teemu Jokinen.
Matti Rönkkö, head of Kiilto Ventures, said: “BIM models are essential for various applications, especially energy renovations, and regulations are driving their use. We view them as key enablers of a more sustainable built environment.
“Make a BIM impressed us with their technical solution, which addresses a critical challenge in the early stages of BIM creation. The team has shown a strong ability to solve real customer problems, evidenced by their rapid early success.”
