Imagine a store where you can shop anytime, anywhere, without ever waiting in line. Welcome to Autonomo Technologies.

Founder James Sutherland, HBS ’14, recognized AI’s potential to optimize retail. Instead of spending $1M on a one-time improvement, he saw AI continuously achieving similar efficiency gains every week. James introduced his concept with Autonomo.

Autonomo’s fully staff-free stores use AI for a seamless, hassle-free experience. AI tracks inventory, including what you pick up, and charges your card as you leave. Just tap your card, grab your items, and go.

For his semi-final interview, James gave us a tour of his model store, impressing everyone. Thinking the call had ended, we shared our excitement —unbeknownst to us, James heard it all.

By applying Accelerator insights, Autonomo won 2022 Demo Day, earned a spot at the Startup World Cup, and secured $5M in pre-seed funding. He credits his achievements to the mentorship and guidance from the Accelerator and the role it played for Autonomo.

With stores open in Germany, Autonomo secured £2M from investors for expansion into Europe and the UK. Major players like Aldi, Edeka, Delivery Hero, and Apple also recognized Autonomo’s disruptive potential. As did Scotland, naming Autonomo the 2024 Equity-Backed Startup of the Year.

James’ leadership is redefining the future of retail, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. We’re proud to have recognized his potential early on—a testament to our ability to spot game-changing innovators who make a real impact.

Key Successes

• 2022 Accelerator Demo Day winner

• Startup World Cup Finalist

• Secured $5 million

• Stores in Germany, UK and Europe backed by VC and angels

• Scotland Equity-Backed Startup of the Year 2024

• Doubles retail profit and shopper satisfaction (NPS)

AUTONOMO