Monday, June 22, 2015

Transphorm Gets $70M From KKR

Goleta-based Transphorm, which is developing power conversion technology, said this morning that it hass raised $70M in a new investment round, led by KKR. Other investors in the company also include Kleiner Perkins Caufield and Byers, Foundation Capital, Google Ventures, Soros Quantum Strategic Partners, INCJ, and Fujitsu. Transphorm is developing power conversion semiconductors based on Gallium Nitride (GaN), and was co-founded by NObel prize winner Dr. Shuji Nakamura, who is best known for his invention of the blue LED. As part of the funding round, KKR has added David Kerko, Brittany Bagley, and Eiji Yatagawa to Transphorm's board, along with industry experts Mario Rivas and Michael White. Transphorm said the funding goes towards growth, product innovation and expansion. More information »