
Smartex is a leading and award-winning hardware-based software company dedicated to developing advanced solutions and building essential tools for the modern textile factory. With a focus on AI-driven technology, Smartex empowers textile manufacturers to optimize operations, enhance quality control, boost sustainability, and streamline supply chain processes. We are revolutionizing the textile industry with our comprehensive suite of tools, including Smartex CORE and Smartex LOOP. These tools enable manufacturers to unlock their full potential and thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. Smartex CORE, the foundation of the Smartex System, detects all relevant types of defects produced by Circular Knitting Machines (open-width and tubular) using artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms & integrates into existing textile machinery with a seamless set of cameras and sensors. The system pairs with a comprehensive software platform for factory management, article management, digital twins of textile rolls produced, and more. Building upon the success of Smartex CORE, our AI-enabled automated quality control product, Smartex LOOP enables suppliers to take advantage of fabric-roll level data collection and revolutionize supply chain communication, as well as directly address the call from fashion brands for better supply chain data, marking a new era of transparency and collaboration. Smartex is dedicated to digitizing the textile industry by providing technical tools which will allow it to become more efficient, productive, and sustainable.

Smartex is a leading and award-winning hardware-based software company dedicated to developing advanced solutions and building essential tools for the modern textile factory. With a focus on AI-driven technology, Smartex empowers textile manufacturers to optimize operations, enhance quality control, boost sustainability, and streamline supply chain processes. We are revolutionizing the textile industry with our comprehensive suite of tools, including Smartex CORE and Smartex LOOP. These tools enable manufacturers to unlock their full potential and thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. Smartex CORE, the foundation of the Smartex System, detects all relevant types of defects produced by Circular Knitting Machines (open-width and tubular) using artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms & integrates into existing textile machinery with a seamless set of cameras and sensors. The system pairs with a comprehensive software platform for factory management, article management, digital twins of textile rolls produced, and more. Building upon the success of Smartex CORE, our AI-enabled automated quality control product, Smartex LOOP enables suppliers to take advantage of fabric-roll level data collection and revolutionize supply chain communication, as well as directly address the call from fashion brands for better supply chain data, marking a new era of transparency and collaboration. Smartex is dedicated to digitizing the textile industry by providing technical tools which will allow it to become more efficient, productive, and sustainable.
Founded: 2018 (Vila do Conde, Portugal)
What they do: Hardware-enabled AI/computer-vision system for real-time textile defect detection and production traceability
Flagship products: Smartex CORE (real-time inspection) and Smartex LOOP (roll-level traceability)
Funding (disclosed): Seed $2.9M (2019); Series A $24.7M (Nov 2022)
Employees: 118 (reported)
Automated visual inspection, defect detection, and production traceability in textile (knitting) manufacturing.
2018
Automation Machinery Manufacturing
USD 2.9M
USD 24.7M
Other participants included H&M Group, DCVC, SOSV/HAX, Spider Capital, Momenta Ventures, Bombyx Growth Fund, Faber, EX Capital, Fashion for Good; Dealroom notes later participation from C&A FIT.
“Led by Lightspeed Venture Partners and Build Collective with participation from strategic and venture investors including H&M Group, DCVC, SOSV/HAX, Spider Capital, Momenta Ventures, Bombyx Growth Fund, Faber, EX Capital, Fashion for Good; C&A FIT also noted as an investor.”
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