Venture capital support has enabled the startup to expand its technology across multiple sectors, reducing reliance on traditional GPS and satellite-based systems.
As a pioneer in AI-powered positioning and navigation technology that operates entirely without satellites, Tern has raised a $7.5 million Seed Extension to accelerate the commercial rollout of its patented Independently Derived Positioning System (IDPS™).
The patented, award-winning system integrates with OEM platforms, commercial fleets, and defense systems. As a software-only solution, it offers high scalability and cost efficiency.
It provides an effective alternative to systems vulnerable to GPS signal jamming, spoofing, or obstruction by buildings, tunnels, or challenging terrain.
This funding, led by Scout VC, Vanderbilt Endowment, Shadow Capital, Bravo Victor VC, and others, will support scaling the technology across key sectors including automotive, delivery, emergency response, environmental services, and defense.
A New Era Beyond GPS
TERN’s IDPS™ uses proprietary AI to interpret real-time map and sensor data, delivering precise, uninterrupted location information without satellites, external signals, or expensive hardware like cameras or LiDAR.
In a recent demonstration, TERN’s technology maintained uninterrupted accuracy navigating Tokyo’s dense urban environment, including areas where traditional GPS signals are unreliable or lost.
Roots in Navigation and AI Innovation
TERN was founded by former navigation specialists and AI experts, combining decades of operational experience with advanced AI capabilities.
Key benefits include enhanced turn-by-turn navigation, improved ADAS performance, and increased reliability for autonomous vehicles by removing GPS as a single point of failure.
Brett Harrison, Co-Founder and President of TERN touted the consistency and resilience of the IDPS technology, stating, “We’re delivering an intelligent, software-only solution built for this new era — one that works seamlessly even in tunnels, dense cities, remote terrain, and contested environments, without satellites, external infrastructure, or interruption.”
Scaling Across Industries
“TERN is building on a decades-old foundation of global mobility to create a stronger, more resilient layer for the future,” said Shaun Moore, Co-Founder and CEO of TERN. “This round allows us to scale across industries — from automakers building the next generation of vehicles, to delivery fleets reducing inefficiencies, to governments advancing mission resilience.”
TERN’s IDPS™ has already undergone extensive testing with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
By prioritizing software integration over hardware retrofitting, the company can rapidly support a wide range of applications.
The company continues to invest in R&D to advance IDPS capabilities and stay ahead of operational challenges, positioning it for strong future growth.
