prenode GmbH

prenode GmbH, founded in 2018 as a spin-off from Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), builds robust, scalable, decentralised AI systems that bridge shopfloor (OT) and cloud (IT). The company develops practical AI and IIoT solutions for manufacturers and industrial operators, with the stated aim of making German industrial expertise scalable. Its technical work spans edge and decentralised AI, OT/IT integration, predictive maintenance, machine vision and automated detection, and Equipment-as-a-Service platforms, applied across mechanical engineering, plant engineering, manufacturing and industrial operations.

Deliverables range from Potential workshops - a hands-on format for identifying AI and IIoT opportunities with industrial partners - to proofs of concept and the ongoing managed operation of deployed solutions. Named implementations include an AI solution enabling Equipment-as-a-Service business models for TRUMPF, predictive maintenance for WEISSER precision machines, and automated chip detection for Watts Industries. The company has been recognised as a top AI startup on multiple occasions.

Based in Karlsruhe, prenode is a member of the German AI Association. The team is interdisciplinary and organised with flat hierarchies; the company describes an expectation that each member acts like an entrepreneur, with genuine autonomy to drive impact. Innovation is defined internally as idea plus implementation plus actual value, and the culture emphasises ownership, continuous learning and mutual respect among colleagues.