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Retail

Ernesta Raises $20 Million Series B to Expand Retail Footprint and Technology Platforms for Custom Rugs

Ernesta has raised $20 million in financing and plans to scale to 30 showroom locations nationwide by the end of 2027 and also to further develop its technology platforms, including enhancements to its Trade Portal and improvements to manufacturing and fabrication technology.

3/12/2026
Image of Ernesta store exterior
Ernesta plans to add an additional 21 showrooms by the end of 2027.

NEW YORK -- Ernesta, a growing custom-sized rug retailer, announced it has raised $20 million in Series B financing led by Addition, with participation from existing investors True Ventures and Platform Capital Management.

The new capital will support Ernesta's continued expansion as it builds the leading brand in the U.S. rug market through a growing omni-channel platform for both interior designers and homeowners that combines digital tools with experiential showrooms.

As part of its retail strategy, Ernesta plans to scale to 30 showroom locations nationwide by the end of 2027, building on the strong performance of its existing stores in key design markets. The company currently operates nine locations. The new investment will also help Ernesta further develop its technology platforms, including enhancements to its  Portal, improvements to manufacturing and fabrication technology, and streamlined tools for ordering samples and managing custom projects.

Ernesta offers custom-sized rugs, including stair runners, cut precisely to fit any space, with curated styles and materials, transparent pricing, and delivery in as little as two weeks.

"Rugs are one of the most important design elements in the home, yet the category has historically been fragmented, opaque, and difficult for customers to navigate," said John Foley, Founder and CEO of Ernesta. "We are building Ernesta to change that, with designer-quality custom-sized rugs, curated design and an experience that feels modern and empowering. Our continued 100 percent year-on-year growth speaks to how much interior designers and ambitious homeowners are appreciating the Ernesta approach."

UPDATES LEADERSHIP

To support this next phase of growth, Ernesta has also announced two key leadership updates. Alan Smith, previously chief marketing officer, has been promoted to president, reflecting his central role in scaling the company's brand, growth strategy, and go-to-market organization. The company has also appointed Alexandria Norton as chief financial officer, bringing deep financial leadership experience as Ernesta enters its next phase of growth.

"Ernesta is building a truly differentiated brand in a massive category that has lacked a modern consumer leader," said Lee Fixel of Addition. "The team has combined strong product curation, a compelling retail experience, and proprietary technology to simplify the custom rug market. We're excited to continue supporting their growth."

Despite 100 million rugs sold annually, the U.S. rug market remains highly fragmented. Ernesta is positioned to capture this white space by becoming the first dominant, tech-enabled brand in the category.

"With Ernesta, we saw an opportunity to build the strongest brand in a category where design matters deeply to Trade and consumers," said Jon Callaghan, co-founder and managing partner at True Ventures. "The company is creating a modern platform that brings together retail, technology, and supply chain innovation in a way that has not existed before."
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