Top 10 U.S. startup funding rounds highlight AI, space, and energy investments

In September 2026, the U.S. startup funding landscape saw a surge with four companies securing over $1 billion in capital. The Boring Co., led by Elon Musk, raised $3 billion, followed by Cognition at $2 billion and Motive at $1.3 billion. Stoke Space also secured $1 billion, marking a record for space tech investments this year. Other notable deals included Suniva’s $835 million for solar energy and Mach Industries’ $600 million in defense tech. AI-focused companies like Harvey and Positron raised $550 million and $500 million respectively, while Celero Communications and Encoded Therapeutics each secured $275 million. These rounds, reported between September 5-11, 2026, reflect a strong focus on AI infrastructure, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing, with valuations reaching billions. The Crunchbase Megadeals Board tracks these deals, offering insights into the most active investors and emerging trends in the venture capital space. The Boring Co.’s $3 billion Series D, led by the UAE, values the company at $23 billion, while Cognition’s $2 billion raise values it at $48 billion. Motive’s $1.3 billion funding brings its total to over $2 billion, and Stoke Space’s $1 billion round values it at $10 billion. Suniva’s $835 million boost expands its solar manufacturing capacity, and Mach Industries’ $600 million Series C values it at $3.7 billion. Harvey’s $550 million raise values the legal AI firm at $15.5 billion, and Positron’s $500 million Series C values it at $5 billion. Celero Communications and Encoded Therapeutics each raised $275 million, with valuations of $3 billion and $5 billion respectively. These deals underscore the growing interest in AI, space exploration, and sustainable energy solutions in the U.S. venture capital ecosystem.