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Travis Kalanick Launches Atoms Startup Focused On Mining And Transport

From Uber To A New Vision

Travis Kalanick, the former CEO and founder of Uber, has launched a new startup called Atoms. The company expands on technology initiatives previously developed within Kalanick’s firm City Storage Systems. City Storage Systems built CloudKitchens, a delivery-focused restaurant infrastructure business that previously reached a valuation of about $15 billion.

Stealth Mode To Breakthrough

Atoms has operated largely in stealth for several years while developing its technology platform. During a recent episode of the TBPN podcast, Kalanick said the company has expanded its focus beyond food delivery infrastructure. The business now includes several divisions, including Atoms Food, Atoms Mining and Atoms Transport, which focus on automation and industrial systems.

Innovation In Robotics And Self-Driving Technologies

Highlighting its innovative approach, Atoms is pioneering the development of gainfully employed robots – specialized machines designed to boost productivity and deliver societal value. Industry sources, including a report by The Information, have noted that Kalanick is preparing to roll out a robotics and self-driving car platform, backed by key investors from his past ventures with Uber. This strategic move seeks to capitalize on the convergence of automation and transportation technologies.

Resiliency And Reinvention

Kalanick discussed the development of the company in a statement published on the Atoms website. In the message, he described the period following his departure from Uber and his efforts to build new technology ventures. The transition from City Storage Systems’ food infrastructure business to Atoms reflects a broader focus on automation and robotics.

The Future Of Atoms

Atoms plans to apply robotics and automation technologies across several industries, including food services, mining and transportation. The company’s strategy outlines the integration of robotics systems into existing industrial operations as it develops new automation platforms.

MENA Venture Capital Stable As International Investor Activity Shifts

A Data-Led Analysis Of Investor Behavior In A War-Affected Region

Venture capital activity in the Middle East and North Africa remained relatively stable one month after the escalation of regional conflict. Early data, however, indicate changes in investor behavior rather than immediate shifts in funding totals. Initial signals are visible in investor participation, capital allocation, and deal pipeline activity.

Venture Markets And The Lag In Response

Funding announcements reflect decisions made months earlier, meaning that today’s figures do not capture the full impact of current events. Investors typically adjust strategies gradually, signaling future shifts long before they are immediately visible in total funding numbers.

International Capital As The Key Pressure Indicator

Participation of international investors remains a key indicator across the MENA venture market. Global capital has historically accounted for a significant share of funding in the region. Following global interest rate increases, international participation declined through 2023. This shift was reflected in lower cross-border deal activity, more cautious capital deployment, and longer fundraising timelines.

Implications For The Broader Startup Ecosystem

Changes in international investor activity affect multiple parts of the startup ecosystem. A recovery in participation was recorded in 2024 and continued into 2025, supporting funding activity and cross-border investment. If uncertainty persists, potential effects include slower investment decisions, reduced cross-border engagement, and extended fundraising cycles. International capital also plays a role in supporting larger funding rounds and access to global networks.

Next Steps For Stakeholders

International capital represents one of several factors shaping venture activity in the region. Its movement often precedes changes in late-stage funding, startup formation, and exit activity. Investors, policymakers, and ecosystem participants rely on data and scenario analysis to assess these trends and adjust strategies.

For A Deeper Insight

Further analysis on venture activity, capital flows, and geopolitical impact across the region is available in the full MAGNiTT report.

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