RYSE Expands Retrofit Window Automation, Distribution & Funding

Motorization Without Replacement

RYSE’s consumer product platform includes SmartShade, which attaches to compatible beaded-chain window coverings, and SmartCurtain, which motorizes curtains on existing rods or tracks. MOTORYSE brings the company’s technology to professional integrators, dealers and fabricators, supported by trade programs, professional integrations and dedicated distribution.

The MOTORYSE Shade Motor offers wired power or rechargeable battery operation. According to the manufacturer, it supports shades weighing up to 22 pounds and measuring up to 10 by 10 feet, with battery life reaching eight months under specified conditions. The company advertises installation in less than five minutes and operating noise below 30 dB. Actual suitability depends on the window covering and installation.

The Curtain Motor supports rod, track and U-rail installations, with button operation and tug activation that lets users initiate powered movement by pulling the curtain. A separately sold WiFi Gateway enables voice control, scheduling and remote access, along with integrations including Control4, Josh.ai, Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa and Google Home.

At CEDIA, MOTORYSE also demonstrated its HemBar Motor, which locates the motor at the bottom of the shade rather than the top. The company says that arrangement simplifies charging and servicing while preserving manual operation during connectivity problems.

Distribution Deals

RYSE is expanding its push into the professional smart home channel, signing DSG Distributors and Mountain West Distributors approximately six weeks after introducing its MOTORYSE brand at CEDIA Expo. The agreements broaden access to retrofit window-covering automation, giving integrators another way to upgrade customers’ homes without replacing existing shades, blinds or curtains.

The opportunity centers on retrofit motorization: adding automated operation to compatible window treatments already in place. For lighting and smart home professionals, that creates a complementary offering alongside lighting controls, scene programming and broader home automation projects. MOTORYSE’s Control4 integration allows window coverings to operate alongside lighting, climate and other connected systems.

Broader Dealer Access

DSG Distributors will carry MOTORYSE throughout the New York region. Mountain West Distributors will distribute the line through locations in Utah, Colorado, Arizona, Oregon and Washington. Mountain West is a founding member of the PowerHouse Alliance, a national distributor network with more than 70 locations.

For dealers, the proposition is an upgrade conversation with existing customers rather than a replacement sale. Compatible treatments can remain in service while motorization adds convenience and integration opportunities. There are potential applications in both residential and commercial projects, including reconnecting with clients who already like their window treatments.

MOTORYSE also differentiates its professional offering through exclusive trade distribution, dealer training and sales materials, and a three-year limited warranty for certified dealer partners.

Capital for Channel Growth

Supporting that expansion, RYSE recently launched a Regulation A funding round priced at $2.60 per share, with a maximum raise of approximately $40.95 million. The offering was SEC-qualified on October 9. RYSE says proceeds will support its professional-channel expansion, targeting integrators, dealers and installers seeking retrofit automation solutions. The raise accompanies its broader effort to build professional-channel distribution infrastructure.

More information on Ryse is available here.

Top image: SmartShade retrofit smart blinds motor. Courtesy of Ryse.

Image: SmartCurtain retrofit smart curtain motor. Courtesy of Ryse.

David Shiller

David Shiller is the Publisher of LightNOW, and Senior Business Development Consultant at Capacity Consulting, a North American consulting firm providing business development services to advanced lighting manufacturers. The ALA awarded David the Pillar of the Industry Award. David has been co-chair of the ALA’s Engineering Committee since 2010. David established MaxLite’s OEM component sales into a multi-million dollar division. He invented GU24 lamps while leading ENERGY STAR lighting programs for the US EPA. David has been published in leading lighting publications, including LD+A, enLIGHTenment Magazine, LEDs Magazine, and more.

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