WindBorne Systems, a startup that uses long-flying weather balloons and AI forecasting models to generate weather data, has raised a $37 million Series B round co-led by Khosla Ventures and Galvanize, with additional investment from Translink Capital, Lux Capital, and existing backers, valuing the company at $250 million.
Founded in 2019, WindBorne originally focused on collecting novel weather data using low-cost sensors and endurance balloons before advances in AI forecasting models allowed the company to generate its own predictions, a capability previously limited to organizations with access to expensive supercomputers. CEO John Dean said the company now operates about 20 launch sites worldwide with roughly 600 balloons airborne at any given time, gathering data from difficult-to-reach locations, including typhoon systems, and is expanding into ocean-based sensor buoys.
Dean said incorporating balloon data significantly improves forecast accuracy compared to satellite-only approaches, helping strengthen investor confidence alongside steady revenue growth. WindBorne’s primary customers currently include government agencies such as the National Weather Service, along with research partnerships with the U.S. Air Force and Navy. The company plans to use the new funding to expand its commercial business, particularly among investment funds using weather data for market predictions, while also upgrading its communications infrastructure and sales team.
Galvanize partner Saloni Multani said AI is making it significantly easier for businesses to integrate weather forecasting into decision-making processes.
