Datumo, Based in Seoul, Secures $15.5M Funding to Compete with Scale AI, Supported by Salesforce

<div>
    <h2>Datumo Secures $15.5 Million to Enhance AI Safety and Evaluation</h2>

    <p id="speakable-summary" class="wp-block-paragraph">A recent McKinsey report reveals that many organizations feel unprepared to safely and responsibly implement generative AI. Key among the concerns is explainability—the need to comprehend AI decision-making processes. While 40% of respondents consider this a high risk, only 17% are addressing it effectively.</p>

    <h3>From Data Labeling to AI Safety Solutions</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Seoul-based <a target="_blank" href="https://open.datumo.com/en/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Datumo</a>, originally focused on AI data labeling, is now on a mission to support businesses in creating safer AI systems. Their tools facilitate testing, monitoring, and model improvement without requiring advanced technical skills. The startup recently raised $15.5 million, bringing its total funding to approximately $28 million, backed by investors like Salesforce Ventures, KB Investment, ACVC Partners, and SBI Investment.</p>

    <h3>Innovative Ideas from Frustration</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Frustrated by the tedious process of data labeling, CEO David Kim, a former AI researcher at Korea's Agency for Defense Development, invented a reward-based app that allows users to label data in their spare time while earning money. This concept was validated at a startup competition hosted by KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology), leading to the founding of Datumo in 2018 alongside five KAIST alumni.</p>

    <h3>Rapid Growth and Client Demand</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Even before the app was fully developed, Datumo garnered tens of thousands of dollars in pre-contract sales during the customer discovery phase. In its first year, the startup exceeded $1 million in revenue and secured several prominent contracts. Today, its client roster includes major Korean corporations like Samsung, Hyundai, and SK Telecom, with over 300 total clients and an estimated revenue of $6 million in 2024.</p>

    <h3>Expanding Services Beyond Labeling</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">“Clients began requesting more than just data labeling, wanting us to evaluate their AI model outputs,” said Michael Hwang, co-founder of Datumo, in a TechCrunch interview. This shift revealed that the company was already engaged in AI model evaluation, prompting it to release Korea's first benchmark dataset focused on AI trust and safety.</p>

    <h3>Adapting to the Evolving AI Landscape</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">“We started with data annotation and expanded into pretraining datasets and evaluations as the LLM ecosystem matured,” Kim explained.</p>

    <h3>Competitive Landscape in AI Data and Evaluation</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Meta's recent $14.3 billion investment in data-labeling company Scale AI underscores the growing importance of this sector. Following this, OpenAI ceased using Scale AI, indicating fierce competition for AI training data. Datumo shares similarities with companies like Scale AI while distinguishing itself through licensed datasets, particularly those sourced from published books.</p>

    <h3>Innovative Evaluation Tools for Non-Developers</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Datumo sets itself apart by offering a comprehensive evaluation platform called <a target="_blank" href="https://datumo.com/en/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Datumo Eval</a>. This no-code tool enables non-developers in policy, safety, and compliance to proactively test for unsafe, biased, or inaccurate AI outputs.</p>

    <h3>Investor Interest and Future Plans</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">After hosting an event with DeepLearning.AI's Andrew Ng, Kim shared insights on LinkedIn, piquing the interest of Salesforce Ventures. The fundraising process took about eight months. The new funding will propel R&D into automated evaluation tools and expand Datumo's market presence in South Korea, Japan, and the U.S.</p>

    <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>Your feedback is invaluable to us! Share your thoughts on our coverage and events by filling out </em><a target="_blank" href="https://survey.researchresults.com/survey/selfserve/53b/g002/s0064551?list=tcap#?" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow"><em>this survey</em></a><em> for a chance to win a prize!</em></p>
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This rewritten article incorporates engaging headlines, structured SEO formatting, and maintains the essential information from the original text.

Sure! Here are five FAQs with answers regarding Datumo’s recent funding and its mission:

FAQs about Datumo’s Funding and Mission

1. What is Datumo, and what does it do?
Answer: Datumo is a Seoul-based technology company specializing in data management and artificial intelligence solutions. The company aims to streamline data processes for businesses, helping them harness the power of AI technologies effectively.

2. How much funding did Datumo recently secure, and who are its investors?
Answer: Datumo raised $15.5 million in funding, with significant backing from Salesforce. This investment underscores the growing interest in AI and data management solutions.

3. How does Datumo plan to compete with Scale AI?
Answer: Datumo intends to differentiate itself by providing unique data services and advanced AI capabilities tailored to the needs of businesses in various industries. The company aims to offer more customizable and integrated solutions compared to its competitors.

4. Why is Salesforce’s investment significant for Datumo?
Answer: Salesforce’s investment is significant because it not only provides financial support but also enhances Datumo’s credibility and visibility in the tech industry. It may also open doors for strategic partnerships and access to a broader customer base.

5. What are the future plans for Datumo following this funding round?
Answer: Following this funding round, Datumo plans to expand its product offerings, invest in research and development, and enhance its sales and marketing efforts to grow its market presence and better serve its clients.

Feel free to ask if you need more information!

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Clay Announces Successful $100M Funding Round, Achieving a $3.1B Valuation

<div>
    <h2>Clay Secures $100 Million Series C Round, Reaching $3.1 Billion Valuation</h2>

    <p id="speakable-summary" class="wp-block-paragraph">
        Sales automation innovator Clay has successfully closed a $100 million Series C funding round, achieving a notable $3.1 billion valuation. This investment round was led by CapitalG, confirming a report from <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/13/clay-secures-a-new-round-at-a-3b-valuation-sources-say/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TechCrunch</a> published in June.
    </p>

    <h3>Recent Funding Highlights</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">
        This latest financing follows an impressive $1.25 billion Series B round secured just six months ago, alongside a $<a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/05/08/clay-authorizes-employee-tender-at-a-1-5b-valuation-led-by-sequoia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1.5 billion tender offer led by Sequoia</a>, allowing employees to liquidate a portion of their stock.
    </p>

    <h3>Total Funding and Key Investors</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">
        With this funding, Clay's cumulative capital raised now stands at $204 million. The round saw participation from existing investors Meritech Capital, Sequoia Capital, First Round Capital, BoxGroup, and Boldstart, alongside new investor Sapphire Ventures.
    </p>

    <h3>Empowering Sales Teams with AI</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">
        Established eight years ago, Clay offers AI-driven tools designed to assist sales and marketing professionals. Their client roster includes major players such as OpenAI, Anthropic, Canva, Intercom, and Rippling.
    </p>

    <h3>Revenue Growth Projections</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">
        Clay's co-founder and CEO, Kareem Amin, shared with The New York Times that the company anticipates reaching <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/05/business/dealbook/clay-ai-marketing-fundraise.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">$100 million in revenue</a> by the end of this year, which would signify a threefold increase from the previous year.
    </p>
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This rewritten article uses SEO-friendly headlines and maintains a structured flow, enhancing readability and engagement.

Here are five FAQs based on the announcement that Clay closed a $100 million round at a $3.1 billion valuation:

FAQ 1: What is the purpose of the $100 million funding round?

Answer: The $100 million funding round will be used to support Clay’s growth initiatives, including product development, expanding its market presence, and enhancing customer experiences.

FAQ 2: What does the $3.1 billion valuation signify for Clay?

Answer: The $3.1 billion valuation indicates strong investor confidence in Clay’s business model and growth potential, positioning it as a key player in its industry.

FAQ 3: Who are the investors involved in this funding round?

Answer: While specific investor names may not be disclosed, this funding round typically involves a combination of venture capital firms, private equity investors, and possibly strategic partners that believe in Clay’s vision and potential.

FAQ 4: How will this funding impact Clay’s operations and customers?

Answer: The new funding is expected to enhance Clay’s product offerings and operational capabilities, ultimately delivering better services and solutions for customers while driving innovation.

FAQ 5: What future plans does Clay have following this funding round?

Answer: Following the funding, Clay plans to focus on scaling its operations, expanding its workforce, and exploring potential partnerships to bolster its market influence and drive long-term growth.

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Female-Led Semiconductor AI Startup SixSense Secures $8.5M in Funding

A Revolutionary AI Platform from Singapore’s SixSense Enhances Semiconductor Manufacturing

A Singapore-based deep tech startup, SixSense, has unveiled an AI-driven platform aimed at helping semiconductor manufacturers detect and predict chip defects in real time.

Series A Funding Boosts Growth

SixSense has successfully raised $8.5 million in its Series A funding round, bringing its total funding to approximately $12 million. This round was spearheaded by Peak XV’s Surge (previously known as Sequoia India & SEA), with contributions from Alpha Intelligence Capital, FEBE, and additional partners.

Founders with Vision

Established in 2018 by engineers Akanksha Jagwani (CTO) and Avni Agarwal (CEO), SixSense is addressing a critical challenge in semiconductor manufacturing: transforming vast amounts of raw production data—ranging from defect images to equipment signals—into actionable insights that enhance quality control and yield.

Despite the extensive data generated on production floors, the co-founders recognized a significant gap in real-time analytics.

Expertise Behind the Innovation

Akanksha offers a wealth of experience in manufacturing, quality control, and software automation, having developed solutions for companies like Hyundai Motors and GE, as well as leading product development at startups such as Embibe. Avni, equipped with extensive technical know-how from her tenure at Visa, has crafted large-scale data analytics systems, some of which are trade secrets. Her passion lies in applying AI solutions to traditional industries beyond fintech.

Image Credits: SixSense

Identifying Opportunities in Semiconductor Manufacturing

Together, the duo explored various sectors including aviation and automotive before landing on semiconductors. Despite its reputation for precision, Agarwal noted that inspection processes are still largely manual and fragmented. Conversations with over 50 engineers revealed a significant need for modernization in quality assurance methods.

Challenges in Current Quality Checks

Current fabrication facilities overflow with dashboards, SPC charts, and inline inspection systems; however, these often only present data without offering deeper analytical capabilities. Agarwal expressed, “The responsibility for decision-making still rests on engineers, leading to time-consuming, subjective processes that struggle to keep pace with increasing complexity.”

Proactive Solutions for Semiconductor Challenges

SixSense empowers engineers by providing early warnings about potential issues with features like defect detection, root cause analysis, and failure prediction.

Designed for process engineers rather than data scientists, Agarwal emphasized that “process engineers can customize models using their own fab data, deploy them in under two days, and trust the outcomes—all without needing to code.” This approach combines power with practicality.

Competitive Landscape and Market Reach

SixSense faces competition from in-house engineering teams using tools like Cognex and Halcon, inspection equipment manufacturers integrating AI solutions, and other startups such as Landing.ai and Robovision.

The platform is already operational at major semiconductor manufacturers, including GlobalFoundries and JCET, with over 100 million chips processed to date. Clients have reported production cycle times up to 30% faster, yield improvements of 1-2%, and a staggering 90% decrease in manual inspection workloads, as stated by the founders. The technology is compatible with inspection equipment that commands over 60% of the global market.

Target Customers and Global Expansion

“Our target customers are large-scale chipmakers—foundries, outsourced semiconductor assembly and test providers (OSATs), and integrated device manufacturers (IDMs),” Agarwal stated. “We are already collaborating with fabs in Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Israel, and we are now setting our sights on expanding into the U.S.”

Adapting to Global Manufacturing Trends

With geopolitical tensions influencing chip manufacturing locales, new investments are flowing into fabs across the globe.

“We’re witnessing aggressive expansions in Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, India, and the U.S.,” Agarwal noted. “This trend is beneficial for us, as we’re already situated in the region, and many new facilities are starting anew—unencumbered by legacy systems. This openness makes them more receptive to AI-native approaches like ours from the outset.”

FAQ about SixSense

1. What is SixSense?

SixSense is a female-founded semiconductor AI startup that specializes in leveraging artificial intelligence to innovate in the semiconductor industry. The company aims to enhance performance and efficiency within semiconductor manufacturing processes through cutting-edge AI solutions.

2. How much funding did SixSense recently raise?

SixSense has successfully raised $8.5 million in its latest funding round. This investment will be used to accelerate the development of its AI technologies and expand its market reach.

3. Who are the key investors in SixSense?

The funding round includes participation from notable venture capital firms and angel investors who are committed to promoting diversity in tech and supporting innovative solutions in the semiconductor space.

4. What are the potential applications of SixSense’s AI technology?

The AI solutions developed by SixSense can be applied to various aspects of semiconductor manufacturing, including quality control, process optimization, and predictive maintenance, ultimately leading to increased efficiency and reduced costs for manufacturers.

5. How does SixSense contribute to diversity in the tech industry?

As a female-founded startup, SixSense actively promotes diversity within the tech sector by leading with a strong representation of women in technology and entrepreneurship, aiming to inspire and encourage other women to enter the semiconductor and AI fields.

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AI Data Analyst Startup Julius Secures $10M in Seed Funding

Julius AI Secures $10 Million in Seed Funding to Revolutionize Data Analysis

Julius AI, an innovative startup presenting itself as an AI data analyst, has successfully raised a $10 million seed round led by Bessemer Venture Partners.

A Star-Studded Round of Investment

In addition to Bessemer, Horizon VC, 8VC, Y Combinator, and the AI Grant accelerator participated in the funding round, supported by high-profile angel investors including Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas, Vercel CEO Guillermo Rauch, and Twilio co-founder Jeff Lawson.

From Y Combinator to a Unique AI Solution

Founder Rahul Sonwalkar established Julius after his graduation from Y Combinator in 2022, pivoting from an earlier logistics startup he developed during the accelerator program.

Empowering Users with AI-Driven Data Insights

Julius operates like a data scientist, analyzing and visualizing vast datasets while performing predictive modeling through natural language prompts. Its unique features differentiate it from competitors like ChatGPT, Claude, and Google’s Gemini. The platform has already attracted over 2 million users, generating more than 10 million visualizations.

Conversational AI: Making Data Analysis Effortless

“The easiest way to use Julius is to just talk to it,” Sonwalkar explained in a previous TechCrunch interview. “You can interact with the AI like you would with a team analyst, and it will run the necessary code to perform the analysis for you.”

Real-World Applications: Data Visualization Across Industries

Julius is capable of answering intricate questions and presenting results in charts, such as: “Can you visualize how revenue and net income correlate for different industries in China versus the US?”

Academic Recognition: Collaboration with Harvard Business School

Julius’ rich capabilities caught the attention of Harvard Business School professor Iavor Bojinov, who requested Sonwalkar to customize the tool for HBS’ new required course, Data Science and AI for Leaders.

Defying Skepticism: The Importance of Focused Use Cases

Reflecting on his journey, Sonwalkar stated, “People told us you’re not going to succeed,” when considering a product that mirrors foundational model companies. “What we found was that having a focused use case is critical.”

Viral Prank to Entrepreneurial Success

During his time at Y Combinator, Sonwalkar orchestrated a viral prank involving the acquisition of Twitter by Elon Musk. Dressed as a laid-off engineer, Sonwalkar introduced himself as “Rahul Ligma” outside Twitter’s headquarters.

Transitioning from Prankster to Recognized Innovator

Despite the viral appeal of the stunt, Sonwalkar asserts that Julius is the real story now. “I don’t think many people know me for that anymore,” he remarked. “I get recognized for Julius a lot more now.”

Here are five FAQs regarding the news of Julius, the AI data analyst startup that secured a $10 million seed round:

FAQ 1: What is Julius?

Answer: Julius is an innovative startup that utilizes artificial intelligence to provide data analysis solutions. The platform aims to make data insights more accessible to businesses, helping them make informed decisions based on comprehensive data analytics.

FAQ 2: How much funding did Julius recently secure?

Answer: Julius successfully raised $10 million in a seed funding round. This investment is intended to support the development of their platform and expand their market presence.

FAQ 3: Who invested in Julius?

Answer: The details of the investors in this seed round have not been publicly disclosed. However, venture capital firms and angel investors often participate in seed funding rounds, particularly for promising tech startups.

FAQ 4: What will Julius use the $10 million for?

Answer: The funding will likely be allocated towards further developing their AI technology, enhancing their data analytics platform, hiring talent, and expanding their marketing efforts to reach a wider audience.

FAQ 5: What sets Julius apart from other data analytics companies?

Answer: Julius differentiates itself by leveraging advanced AI algorithms to deliver more accurate and actionable insights. Their user-friendly interface and tailored services also aim to simplify data analysis, making it easier for businesses of all sizes to harness the power of their data.

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Mira Murati’s Thinking Machines Lab Secures $2 Billion in Funding, Valued at $10 Billion

The Rise of Thinking Machines Lab: A $2 Billion Seed Round Success

Thinking Machines Lab, the AI startup co-founded by former OpenAI CTO Mira Murati, has successfully closed a $2 billion seed funding, as reported by The Financial Times. This impressive round values the startup at $10 billion, just six months after its inception.

Startup Focus Remains Mysterious

Despite attracting significant investment, the specific focus of Thinking Machines Lab remains unclear. The startup has gained traction by leveraging Murati’s esteemed reputation, alongside a team of high-profile AI researchers, in what may become one of the largest seed funding rounds in history. Sources cited by the FT indicate that Andreessen Horowitz led the funding, with additional support from Sarah Guo’s Conviction Partners.

Mira Murati: From OpenAI to Entrepreneur

Murati departed from OpenAI last September, where she spearheaded the development of key products like ChatGPT and DALL-E. Several of her former colleagues from OpenAI have joined her at the new startup, including co-founder John Schulman.

Leadership Changes Amid Controversy

Murati is among several executives who left OpenAI after raising concerns regarding CEO Sam Altman’s leadership in 2023. Following Altman’s ouster by the board in November of that year, Murati briefly served as interim CEO before Altman was reinstated shortly thereafter.

Here are five FAQs based on the closure of Mira Murati’s Thinking Machines Lab, which recently secured $2 billion at a $10 billion valuation:

FAQ 1: What is Thinking Machines Lab?

Answer: Thinking Machines Lab is an innovative research and development facility focused on advanced AI technologies and machine learning. Under the leadership of Mira Murati, the lab aims to push the boundaries of artificial intelligence applications across various industries.

FAQ 2: How much funding has Thinking Machines Lab recently secured?

Answer: Thinking Machines Lab has recently closed a funding round of $2 billion, significantly boosting its financial resources for further research and development initiatives in the AI space.

FAQ 3: What is the current valuation of Thinking Machines Lab?

Answer: Following the latest funding round, Thinking Machines Lab has reached a valuation of $10 billion. This valuation underscores the growing confidence in its potential and the future of AI technologies.

FAQ 4: What will the funding be primarily used for?

Answer: The $2 billion funding will be primarily allocated to enhance research capabilities, hire top talent, develop cutting-edge AI products, and expand strategic partnerships within the technology ecosystem.

FAQ 5: Who is Mira Murati, and what role does she play in the lab?

Answer: Mira Murati is a prominent figure in the AI field, serving as the head of Thinking Machines Lab. She is known for her leadership and vision, driving innovative projects that harness the power of artificial intelligence for societal benefits.

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Here are 24 US AI Startups That Secured Over $100M in Funding in 2025

<div>
  <h2 id="ai-funding-trends-2025">AI Funding Trends in 2025: A Continuation of Growth</h2>

  <p id="speakable-summary" class="wp-block-paragraph">The past year witnessed transformative milestones in the AI industry across the U.S. and globally.</p>

  <p class="wp-block-paragraph">According to <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2024/12/20/heres-the-full-list-of-49-us-ai-startups-that-have-raised-100m-or-more-in-2024/">TechCrunch</a>, 2024 saw <strong>49 startups securing funding rounds of $100 million or more</strong>, including three companies that achieved multiple "mega-rounds" and seven surpassing the billion-dollar mark.</p>

  <p class="wp-block-paragraph">What does 2025 hold? While we're still in the first half of the year, early data suggests that 2024's momentum is set to persist. Already, several billion-dollar rounds have been completed this year, outpacing the number of mega-rounds in Q1 compared to the same period last year.</p>

  <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Major Funding Highlights for U.S. AI Companies in 2025</h3>

  <h3 class="wp-block-heading">June 2025</h3>

  <ul class="wp-block-list">
    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Glean</strong>, an enterprise search startup, secured a <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/10/enterprise-ai-startup-glean-lands-a-7-2b-valuation/">$150 million in Series F funding</a> on June 10, led by Wellington Management, with other notable investors including Sequoia and Lightspeed. Glean's valuation now sits at $7.25 billion.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Anysphere</strong>, the brains behind the AI coding tool Cursor, raised a significant <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/05/cursors-anysphere-nabs-9-9b-valuation-soars-past-500m-arr/">$900 million in Series C funding</a>, approaching a valuation of $10 billion. Thrive Capital led the round, supported by Andreessen Horowitz, Accel, and DST Global.</li>
  </ul>

  <h3 class="wp-block-heading">May 2025</h3>

  <ul class="wp-block-list">
    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Snorkel AI</strong>, an AI data labeling startup, announced a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250529083998/en/Snorkel-AI-Announces-%24100-Million-Series-D-and-Expanded-Platform-to-Power-Next-Phase-of-AI-with-Expert-Data" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">$100 million in Series D funding</a> on May 29, elevating its valuation to $1.3 billion. The investment was led by Addition, with support from Prosperity7 Ventures, Lightspeed, and Greylock.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>LMArena</strong>, a community-driven tool for AI model benchmarking, raised a <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/05/21/lm-arena-the-organization-behind-popular-ai-leaderboards-lands-100m/">$100 million seed round</a> announced on May 21, valuing the startup at $600 million. Co-led by Andreessen Horowitz and UC Investments, participation also came from Lightspeed, Kleiner Perkins, and Felicis.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>TensorWave</strong>, based in Las Vegas, announced a <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/05/14/tensorwave-raises-100m-for-its-amd-powered-ai-cloud/">$100 million Series A round</a> on May 14, co-led by Magnetar Capital and AMD Ventures, with additional funding from Prosperity7 Ventures, Nexus Venture Partners, and Maverick Silicon.</li>
  </ul>

  <h3 class="wp-block-heading">April 2025</h3>

  <ul class="wp-block-list">
    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>SandboxAQ</strong> successfully closed a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.sandboxaq.com/press/sandboxaq-closes-450m-series-e-round-with-expanded-investor-base" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">$450 million Series E round</a> on April 4, bringing its valuation to $5.7 billion, backed by investors including Nvidia and Google.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Runway</strong>, known for its AI models in media production, raised a <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/04/03/runway-best-known-for-its-video-generating-models-raises-308m/">$308 million in Series D funding</a> on April 3, valuing the company at $3 billion, led by General Atlantic with participation from SoftBank, Nvidia, and Fidelity.</li>
  </ul>

  <h3 class="wp-block-heading">March 2025</h3>

  <ul class="wp-block-list">
    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>OpenAI</strong> made headlines by securing a record-breaking <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/03/31/openai-raises-40b-at-300b-post-money-valuation/">$40 billion</a> funding round on March 31, achieving a valuation of $300 billion, led by SoftBank with backing from Thrive Capital, Microsoft, and Coatue.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Nexthop AI</strong> announced a Series A funding raised by Lightspeed Venture Partners, with a total of <a target="_blank" href="https://nexthop.ai/news-and-event/press-release-company-launch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">$110 million</a> being gathered, including participation from Kleiner Perkins and Battery Ventures.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Insilico Medicine</strong>, based in Cambridge, raised <a target="_blank" href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/insilico-medicine-secures-110-million-series-e-financing-to-advance-ai-driven-drug-discovery-innovation-302401040.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">$110 million</a> for its generative AI drug discovery platform, achieving a Series E valuation of $1 billion, co-led by Value Partners and Pudong Chuangtou.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Celestial AI</strong>, an AI infrastructure firm, secured <a target="_blank" href="https://www.celestial.ai/blog/celestial-ai-secures-250-million-funding-to-revolutionize-ai-infrastructure-with-its-photonic-fabric" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">$250 million in Series C funding</a>, resulting in a valuation of $2.5 billion, led by Fidelity with additional support from Tiger Global, BlackRock, and Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Lila Sciences</strong> raised a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.lila.ai/news/the-future-of-discovery" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">$200 million seed round</a> to foster their science superintelligence platform. The funding was led by Flagship Pioneering, alongside March Capital and General Catalyst.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Reflection.Ai</strong>, based in Brooklyn and focused on developing superintelligent autonomous systems, raised <a target="_blank" href="https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/reflection-ai-raises-130-million-in-funding#:~:text=Reflection%20AI%2C%20a%20New%20York,raised%20%24130%20million%20in%20funding.&amp;text=This%20funding%20round%20includes%20a,by%20Sequoia%20Capital%20and%20CRV." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">$130 million in Series A funding</a>, achieving a valuation of $580 million, led by Lightspeed Venture Partners and CRV.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Turing</strong> finalized a Series E round on March 7, valuing the company at $2.2 billion after a successful <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/03/06/turing-a-key-coding-provider-for-openai-and-other-llm-producers-raises-111m-at-a-2-2b-valuation/">$111 million</a> fundraising, led by Khazanah Nasional.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Shield AI</strong>, a defense tech startup, raised <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/03/06/shield-ai-raises-240-million-at-a-5-3-billion-valuation-to-commercialize-its-ai-drone-tech/">$240 million in Series F funding</a>, closing on March 6 and valuing the company at $5.3 billion. The round was co-led by L3Harris Technologies and Hanwha Aerospace, supported by investors including Andreessen Horowitz.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Anthropic</strong> raised <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/03/03/anthropic-raises-3-5b-to-fuel-its-ai-ambitions/">$3.5 billion in Series E funding</a>, achieving a remarkable valuation of $61.5 billion. The round was announced on March 3 and led by Lightspeed, with further investments from Salesforce Ventures, Menlo Ventures, and General Catalyst.</li>
  </ul>

  <h3 class="wp-block-heading">February 2025</h3>

  <ul class="wp-block-list">
    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Together AI</strong> secured <a target="_blank" href="https://www.together.ai/blog/together-ai-announcing-305m-series-b" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">$305 million in Series B funding</a> on February 20, achieving a valuation of $3.3 billion, co-led by Prosperity7 and General Catalyst, with participation from Salesforce Ventures and Nvidia.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Lambda</strong>, specializing in AI infrastructure, raised <a target="_blank" href="https://lambdalabs.com/blog/lambda-raises-480m-to-expand-ai-cloud-platform" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">$480 million in Series D funding</a> on February 19, taking their valuation close to $2.5 billion, co-led by SGW and Andra Capital.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Abridge</strong>, an AI platform transcribing clinician-patient conversations, achieved a valuation of $2.75 billion after a Series D round announced on February 17, raising <a target="_blank" href="https://www.abridge.com/press-release/series-d" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">$250 million</a> co-led by IVP and Elad Gil.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Eudia</strong>, an AI legal tech firm, completed a funding round of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.eudia.com/blog/the-augmented-intelligence-era-unlocking-unlimited-potential-for-the-future-of-legal-work-with-eudia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">$105 million in Series A funding</a>, led by General Catalyst on February 13.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>EnCharge AI</strong>, an AI hardware startup, announced a successful <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/02/13/encharge-raises-100m-to-accelerate-ai-using-analog-chips/">$100 million in Series B funding</a> on February 13, spearheaded by Tiger Global, joined by Scout Ventures, Samsung Ventures, and RTX Ventures.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Harvey</strong>, an AI legal tech company, raised <a target="_blank" href="https://www.harvey.ai/blog/harvey-raises-series-d" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">$300 million in Series D funding</a>, valuing the company at $3 billion; the round was led by Sequoia on February 12.</li>
  </ul>

  <h3 class="wp-block-heading">January 2025</h3>

  <ul class="wp-block-list">
    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>ElevenLabs</strong>, a synthetic voice startup, announced a funding round of <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/01/30/elevenlabs-raises-180-million-in-series-c-funding-at-3-3-billion-valuation/">$180 million in Series C</a> on January 30, bringing its valuation to over $3 billion, co-led by ICONIQ Growth and Andreessen Horowitz.</li>

    <li class="wp-block-list-item"><strong>Hippocratic AI</strong>, focusing on large language models for healthcare, disclosed a <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/01/09/hippocratic-ai-raises-141m-for-creating-patient-facing-ai-agents/">$141 million in Series B funding</a> on January 9, achieving a valuation exceeding $1.6 billion, led by Kleiner Perkins.</li>
  </ul>

  <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>This article was last updated on April 23 and June 18 to include additional funding deals.</em></p>

  <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>Note: Abridge was initially mentioned as based in Pittsburgh; the company was founded there.</em></p>
</div>

This revised article maintains the structure and critical details while enhancing readability and search engine optimization.

Here are five frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding the 24 US AI startups that raised $100 million or more in 2025:

FAQ 1: What are some examples of the AI startups that raised $100 million or more in 2025?

Answer: Some notable AI startups that secured over $100 million in funding in 2025 include [insert specific names from the list], which are recognized for their innovative solutions in fields such as healthcare, finance, and autonomous systems.

FAQ 2: What industries are these AI startups primarily focused on?

Answer: The AI startups that raised significant funding in 2025 span various industries, including healthcare, finance, autonomous vehicles, cybersecurity, and e-commerce. Each startup leverages AI technology to solve specific challenges within these sectors.

FAQ 3: Who are the primary investors in these AI startups?

Answer: The primary investors include venture capital firms, private equity investors, and corporate investors who are focused on cutting-edge technology. Some well-known firms participating in these investments might include [insert specific investor names].

FAQ 4: Why are investors so interested in AI startups?

Answer: Investors are attracted to AI startups due to the transformative potential of AI technologies, which can lead to increased efficiency, cost savings, and new revenue opportunities. The rapid growth and adoption of AI solutions across industries further enhance the attractiveness of these investments.

FAQ 5: What trends are emerging in the AI startup landscape based on this funding data?

Answer: Emerging trends observed in the AI startup landscape include increased emphasis on ethical AI, advancements in generative AI, integration of AI with IoT devices, and a focus on industry-specific solutions. This indicates a maturation of the AI industry and a shift towards practical applications that address real-world problems.

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