illoca

Illoca is a technology company operating at the intersection of artificial intelligence and commercial architecture. Founded in 2024 by Chin-Yi Cheng and Chiaowei Yu, the San Ramon, CA-based startup is developing an AI-native design platform to accelerate architectural workflows. The company targets architecture and engineering firms, offering a tool to enhance productivity and shorten project timelines. In May 2026, Illoca announced the closing of a $13 million seed funding round. The round was led by Bessemer Venture Partners and included participation from AIX Ventures, Root Ventures, and Alt Ventures, signaling investor confidence in the company's approach to the construction technology sector. The capital is intended to support the expansion of operations and further development efforts. The company's core offering is an AI-powered design engine, with its first product named Tracing Paper. This platform features a generative interface that enables architects to transform sketches, markups, and natural language inputs directly into editable 2D and 3D design documentation. A key benefit is the ability to streamline the transition from creative concepts to precise, construction-ready models that can be exported into industry-standard software like Revit, thereby reducing time spent on manual reformatting and documentation. Keywords: generative AI, architectural design, AEC software, construction technology, design automation, real-time collaboration, building design, 2D modeling, 3D modeling, Tracing Paper, AI design engine, Bessemer Venture Partners, Chin-Yi Cheng, Chiaowei Yu, architecture software, engineering firms