The SmAll Market Accelerates U.S. Expansion After Closing US$2 Million Pre-Seed Round

The SmAll Market, a startup founded by Brazilian entrepreneurs Lucas Ceschin and Rodolpho Damasco, has secured more than US$2 million in funding to accelerate its expansion in the United States.

The company has already launched operations in Miami, Florida, where it is introducing autonomous convenience stores inside residential condominiums.

Pre-Seed Round Attracts Retail and Technology Executives

The company's pre-seed round totaled US$2 million and included investors with extensive experience in the retail and technology sectors. Among the participants were:

• Trevor Hayes, former CEO of Subway
• Leandro Balbinot, CTO of Whole Foods and Vice President of Operations at Amazon
• and Jardel Cardoso, founder of Billor and former CEO of CrediPago.

The new capital will support The SmAll Market's growth strategy in the U.S., where the company aims to expand its network of autonomous stores and strengthen its operational structure.

Bringing a 24/7 Autonomous Convenience Model to Residential Communities

The startup's business model focuses on installing autonomous convenience stores in residential buildings with more than 150 apartments. Residents can access a curated selection of everyday products at any time, without the need for on-site staff.

According to co-founder Lucas Ceschin, the company's goal is to transform residential spaces into highly accessible retail hubs.

“The proposal is clear: to transform residential spaces into convenience points accessible 24 hours a day, without the need for human operation and with a fully digital experience,” said Ceschin.

The company's first autonomous store began operating in March inside a residential condominium in Miami. Product assortments are tailored to the profile and purchasing habits of residents, creating a more personalized shopping experience.

Technology and Artificial Intelligence Drive Operations

The SmAll Market relies on proprietary technology to support automated payments and operational management. The company also uses artificial intelligence tools to optimize product selection and pricing strategies.

Ceschin believes the U.S. market presents significant opportunities for this type of retail model.

“We identified an opportunity in a market where this model is still relatively underexplored. We are bringing a solution that has been tested, validated, and adapted for a demanding consumer,” he said.

He added that the company's long-term objective is to build a business recognized for operational consistency and customer experience.

“Our goal is to build a company that stands out for the consistency of its operations and the experience it delivers.”

Founders Bring Experience in Retail, Technology and Finance

The leadership team combines backgrounds in retail, technology and financial services.

Before launching The SmAll Market, Lucas Ceschin co-founded and served as CEO of James Delivery, a platform acquired by Grupo Pão de Açúcar in 2018.

Meanwhile, Rodolpho Damasco has been involved in the creation of companies and investment vehicles focused on private credit, structured transactions and alternative investments.

Expansion Plans Include 10 Additional Locations in Miami

According to Damasco, entering the U.S. market required the company to adapt to local regulations and real estate dynamics.

“Among the main challenges are the regulatory complexities, which vary from city to city, and the dynamics of the American real estate market. Adapting to this environment required strategic adjustments and the development of local relationships,” he said.

Over the coming months, The SmAll Market plans to open 10 additional locations in Miami. At the same time, the startup is developing an expansion strategy based on local operators, supported by operational assistance and financing opportunities.

“The strategy is to advance in a structured manner, with a focus on consumer experience and operational efficiency,” Damasco concluded.