AI companies globally raised over $100 billion in venture capital in 2024, marking an 80% increase from 2023. The AI sector has become crowded with overlapping startups, making it challenging for investors to identify potential leaders. According to a survey of 20 VCs, proprietary data is crucial for AI startups to stand out. Many investors emphasize the importance of unique data, effective user experiences, and strong talent. Companies like Fermata leverage both customer and in-house data for better model accuracy, highlighting the significance of data in achieving long-term success.