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Former Product Hunt CEO Josh Buckley Targets $250M Fundraise

Former Product Hunt CEO Josh Buckley Targets $250M Fundraise

Josh Buckley, ex-CEO of Product Hunt, is in the process of raising a $250 million fund for his venture capital firm, Buckley Ventures, as per a recent regulatory filing. This target is notably lower than his previous $500 million goal for the third fund, which netted $337 million amid a bearish VC market. Buckley, recognized for offering favorable terms to startups, faced challenges with some investments, including the failed logistics startup Airlift. He has not commented on this latest fundraising effort.

Created at: October 14, 2024 9:00pm

Omnea Secures $25M Funding to Revolutionize Procurement Process

Omnea Secures $25M Funding to Revolutionize Procurement Process

London-based startup Omnea has raised $25 million in funding, comprising a $20 million Series A and a $5 million seed round, to streamline the cumbersome procurement process within organizations. Co-founded by former Tessian executives Ben Freeman and Ben Allen, Omnea's platform aims to enhance efficiency by utilizing AI to triage requests, manage vendor relationships, and improve price negotiations. The company reported an impressive 8x revenue growth last year, attracting notable clients like McAfee and Typeform. Investors include Accel, First Round Capital, and Point Nine, highlighting the market's demand for procurement solutions.

Created at: October 14, 2024 5:00pm

Beyond Presence Secures $3.1M Funding to Create Hyper-Realistic AI Avatars

Beyond Presence Secures $3.1M Funding to Create Hyper-Realistic AI Avatars

Beyond Presence, a Munich-based startup founded by Awais Shafique, has raised $3.1 million in a pre-seed funding round led by HV Capital. The startup aims to develop hyper-realistic avatars capable of real-time, unscripted conversations, leveraging advancements in computer vision and AI. With over 300 companies on the waitlist, the public beta is expected by the end of October. Shafique, previously co-founder of Presize, has opted to bypass Y Combinator to maintain equity and focus on core technology. The funding will support ongoing model development and product launch efforts.

Created at: October 14, 2024 1:01pm

Aerleum Develops Innovative DAC Technology to Transform CO2 into Fuel

Aerleum Develops Innovative DAC Technology to Transform CO2 into Fuel

Aerleum, a startup founded by Sébastien Fiedorow and scientist Steven Bardey, aims to revolutionize direct air capture (DAC) by converting captured carbon dioxide directly into methanol fuel. The company has secured $6 million in seed funding to build a pilot device for this technology. Aerleum's process removes the need for traditional DAC steps, allowing for a more efficient conversion of CO2 into fuel. The startup targets a production cost of $650 per metric ton of methanol within five years, positioning itself competitively against fossil fuels.

Created at: October 14, 2024 1:00pm

Rerail: A New Fintech-Focused Angel Fund Launched by Anthony Danon

Rerail: A New Fintech-Focused Angel Fund Launched by Anthony Danon

Anthony Danon, a seasoned investor in the fintech sector, has launched Rerail, a new angel fund aimed at early-stage fintech startups. With a target of $20 million, Rerail has already secured over $20.5 million in its first close. Danon, who has a decade of experience in venture capital, aims to invest between $200,000 and $500,000 per startup. He emphasizes a collaborative approach, leveraging his extensive network of founders and operators. This fund follows his separation from Cocoa, reflecting a sharper focus on fintech and related sectors globally.

Created at: October 14, 2024 7:00am

Japan's Startup Scene Sees Hope with New Unicorns Emerging

Japan's Startup Scene Sees Hope with New Unicorns Emerging

Japan's startup ecosystem is showing signs of revitalization with increasing interest from young entrepreneurs and government initiatives aimed at fostering growth. Despite only having seven unicorns compared to the U.S. and China, the Japanese government has launched a five-year plan to create 100,000 startups and 100 unicorns by 2027. Key players like Spiber and SmartHR are gaining traction, attracting significant investments. Furthermore, Japan's lenient IPO regulations may encourage quicker public listings. However, the majority of venture capital still comes from foreign investors, particularly from the U.S.

Created at: October 12, 2024 3:30pm

39 US AI Startups Raise Over $100M in 2024 as Funding Surges

39 US AI Startups Raise Over $100M in 2024 as Funding Surges

Venture capital investments in AI continue to thrive, with U.S. AI startups raising over $18.9 billion in Q3 2024 alone, accounting for 28% of total venture funding. The quarter marked a historic milestone as OpenAI secured a record $6.6 billion round. Notable raises include EvenUp's $135 million, KoBold Metals' $491.5 million, and Poolside's $500 million. These developments highlight the ongoing investor enthusiasm for AI, despite concerns over fatigue in the sector. The momentum suggests a robust future for AI-driven innovations.

Created at: October 11, 2024 10:00pm

Khosla Ventures Invests $405M in OpenAI via SPV, Not Direct Capital

Khosla Ventures Invests $405M in OpenAI via SPV, Not Direct Capital

Khosla Ventures has reportedly raised $405 million to support OpenAI, as revealed in a recent regulatory filing. This new funding is part of a larger $6.6 billion round, where Khosla's stake is estimated at 6%. However, Khosla may not have directly contributed any substantial capital, as the funds were primarily sourced from other investors through a special purpose vehicle (SPV). The terms of Khosla's participation remain undisclosed, but it is known that their previous investment in OpenAI in 2019 has paid off significantly as OpenAI's valuation soared to $157 billion.

Created at: October 11, 2024 8:30pm

Startups Battle Well-Funded Rivals Amid New Funding Surge

Startups Battle Well-Funded Rivals Amid New Funding Surge

This week's startup landscape saw significant funding activity, emphasizing the importance of regulatory interactions. Companies like KoBold Metals raised $491 million for mineral discovery using AI, while Auger secured a $100 million seed round for supply chain innovations. French unicorn Alan expanded into Canada, aiming to hire 50 staff. Meanwhile, LoanSnap lost its operating license in Connecticut, and Fisker faced bankruptcy challenges. Amidst these developments, venture studio Diagram launched a $58 million climate tech fund, reflecting ongoing investment in sustainable solutions.

Created at: October 11, 2024 7:30pm

Fearless Fund Invests in E-Commerce Platform Zimi After Lawsuit Settlement

Fearless Fund Invests in E-Commerce Platform Zimi After Lawsuit Settlement

Fearless Fund has announced a seven-figure investment in the e-commerce startup Zimi, co-founded by Audrey Djiya and Peter Nsaka, following a settlement of a lawsuit with the American Alliance for Equal Rights. Zimi specializes in inventory management and logistics for businesses in emerging markets. The investment comes as Fearless Fund resumes normal operations and focuses on supporting women of color entrepreneurs. Zimi's CEO emphasized the importance of Fearless Fund's understanding of the challenges they aim to solve. The fresh capital will enhance Zimi's operations and engineering workforce while integrating AI technologies.

Created at: October 11, 2024 7:30pm

HubSpot Acquires Cacheflow to Enhance Software Sales Solutions

HubSpot Acquires Cacheflow to Enhance Software Sales Solutions

HubSpot has announced its acquisition of Cacheflow, a startup specializing in tools for closing software sales. This move aims to enhance HubSpot’s Commerce Hub suite, particularly in subscription billing management and configure, price, quote (CPQ) tools. Cacheflow, founded in 2021, will operate as a subsidiary, helping businesses automate revenue management. The acquisition follows Cacheflow's $16 million fundraising and positions HubSpot for growth in the B2B software market. HubSpot shares rose 1.3% post-announcement, reflecting investor optimism about the deal's potential.

Created at: October 11, 2024 4:30pm

SpaceX Alums Launch $550M Deep Tech Fund to Back Innovative Startups

SpaceX Alums Launch $550M Deep Tech Fund to Back Innovative Startups

Interlagos, a venture capital firm founded by former SpaceX leaders, aims to raise $550 million for its inaugural fund focused on deep tech startups. The firm plans to invest in 26-32 companies, providing capital from inception to Series B stages. Founders Achal Upadhyaya and Tom Ochinero, both with extensive SpaceX experience, emphasize their commitment with a personal investment pledge. The fund targets sectors like AI, robotics, and biotech, amid a challenging VC landscape. If successful, Interlagos will compete with major players like Founders Fund and Andreessen Horowitz.

Created at: October 10, 2024 7:30pm

Tesla's Robotaxi Reveal Sparks Anticipation Amidst Industry Shifts

Tesla's Robotaxi Reveal Sparks Anticipation Amidst Industry Shifts

Tesla prepares to unveil its highly anticipated Robotaxi, with expectations of a detailed product roadmap and commercialization strategies. Elon Musk's vision aims to elevate Tesla's valuation from $750 billion to $5 trillion. Investors are keen to see a working prototype amid concerns over production hurdles, including federal safety regulations. Meanwhile, Lithios has secured $10 million in seed funding to extract lithium from underground reservoirs, addressing the rising demand for EV batteries. Additionally, Baidu plans to expand its ride-hailing service Apollo Go beyond China, targeting global markets.

Created at: October 10, 2024 5:30pm

Numeric Secures $28M Series A to Revolutionize Accounting with AI

Numeric Secures $28M Series A to Revolutionize Accounting with AI

Numeric, an innovative accounting software startup, has raised $28 million in a Series A funding round led by Menlo Ventures, following a $10 million seed round just five months prior. Founded by Parker Gilbert, Numeric automates the book-closing process, significantly reducing the time accountants spend on month-end tasks. The software integrates AI to analyze financial data, providing explanations for variances and improving accuracy. With a four-fold revenue increase over the last year, Numeric is set to disrupt the accounting software market dominated by established players. Investors see a strong potential for future product expansions.

Created at: October 10, 2024 4:30pm

Scope3 Launches Initiative to Track AI's Carbon Footprint

Scope3 Launches Initiative to Track AI's Carbon Footprint

Scope3, founded by Brian O’Kelley, has begun tracking the carbon footprint of AI in digital advertising. This initiative follows O’Kelley’s realization during an MIT course that the significant carbon emissions from metals come from mining, prompting him to pivot to digital ads. With a new funding round led by GV, raising $25 million, Scope3 aims to reduce waste in programmatic advertising while addressing environmental concerns. The startup's approach combines economic efficiency with sustainability, leveraging AI to enhance its data models and client offerings.

Created at: October 10, 2024 1:00pm

Relyance Secures $32M to Enhance AI Data Compliance Solutions

Relyance Secures $32M to Enhance AI Data Compliance Solutions

Relyance AI has raised $32 million in a Series B funding round, bringing its total funding to $59 million. Founded by Abhi Sharma and Leila Golchehreh, the startup aims to assist companies in navigating complex data regulations as AI adoption rises. The platform analyzes data sources to ensure compliance with governance policies and privacy laws. With a growing client base, including Coinbase and Snowflake, Relyance plans to expand its team to 90 employees by year-end. The funding will focus on enhancing engineering capabilities and market outreach to meet increasing demand for data security solutions in AI.

Created at: October 10, 2024 12:30pm

Diagram Expands into Climate Tech with $80 Million CAD Fund

Diagram Expands into Climate Tech with $80 Million CAD Fund

Montreal-based venture studio Diagram has announced the launch of its ClimateTech Fund, raising $80 million CAD, surpassing its initial target of $60 million CAD. This marks Diagram's first fund focused on climate technology, aiming to support startups in the climate sector. The firm plans to provide capital, customer connections, and product development frameworks to help early-stage companies succeed. Diagram is already developing two startups under this fund, including Relion, which focuses on EV charging infrastructure, and Lyteflo, an EV sales enablement solution. Interest in climate-focused investments remains robust despite broader fundraising challenges.

Created at: October 10, 2024 12:00pm

MiLaboratories Secures $10M Funding to Revolutionize Genomic Research

MiLaboratories Secures $10M Funding to Revolutionize Genomic Research

San Francisco-based MiLaboratories has raised $10 million in Series A funding to enhance its computational biology platform designed for genomic research. The platform simplifies the analysis of vast genomic data, integrating features like data visualization and generative AI. MiLaboratories aims to empower bioinformaticians, allowing them to focus on complex tasks rather than routine data processing. Currently in use by around 300 labs, the platform also facilitates third-party app development. With major pharma companies as clients, the startup is poised to make significant advancements in vaccine and cancer treatment research.

Created at: October 10, 2024 8:00am

Health Insurtech Startup Qantev Secures €30 Million to Innovate Claims Management

Health Insurtech Startup Qantev Secures €30 Million to Innovate Claims Management

Qantev, a Paris-based health insurtech startup, has raised €30 million in its Series B funding round led by Blossom Capital. The funding will enhance its AI-driven claims management software, which aims to streamline processes for major clients like AXA and Generali. Co-founders Tarik Dadi and Hadrien de March emphasize the importance of specialized AI models over large language models for accuracy in healthcare. With plans to expand its Hong Kong office and grow its North American presence, Qantev also aims to double its workforce by year-end to maintain its competitive edge in the market.

Created at: October 10, 2024 4:30am

Ex-Planetly Execs Launch AI-Driven Carbon Accounting Startup Forward Earth

Ex-Planetly Execs Launch AI-Driven Carbon Accounting Startup Forward Earth

Former Planetly executives Cari Davidson, Giuseppe Gentile, and Micha Schildmann have launched Forward Earth after their unsatisfactory exit from the carbon accounting startup acquired by OneTrust. The trio is leveraging AI to develop a platform aimed at smaller companies, which often lack access to costly consulting services. They recently secured €4.5 million in seed funding from Mosaic Ventures, Speedinvest, and Revent. Forward Earth aims to simplify CO2 footprint calculations and enhance supply chain transparency, addressing a gap in the market. The startup plans to expand its operations across Europe, the U.S., and Asia.

Created at: October 9, 2024 11:30am

Basecamp Research Secures $60M for Ambitious AI Project in Biology

Basecamp Research Secures $60M for Ambitious AI Project in Biology

Basecamp Research, a London-based startup, has raised $60 million in Series B funding to develop an AI platform designed to advance biological research. Founded by biology PhDs, the company aims to build a 'GPT for biology' by collecting primary data from the natural world. CEO Glen Gower emphasized the need to address the significant data gap in biological models. With over 100 partnerships across 25 countries, Basecamp plans to collaborate with the Broad Institute to enhance drug discovery and biodiversity insights. The funding will facilitate data expansion and model development.

Created at: October 9, 2024 11:00am

Unify Secures $12M Series A to Revolutionize Sales Outreach with AI

Unify Secures $12M Series A to Revolutionize Sales Outreach with AI

Unify, an AI-driven startup specializing in data-enhanced sales outreach, has successfully raised $12 million in a Series A funding round led by Emergence Capital and Thrive Capital. The company, which emerged from OpenAI's Converge accelerator, aims to improve customer engagement through personalized 'warm outbound' messaging. Co-founded by Austin Hughes and Connor Heggie, Unify leverages advanced data analytics to tailor communications to potential buyers. With revenues already in the millions, Unify is gaining traction among notable clients like Justworks and Lattice, positioning itself uniquely in the AI sales development space.

Created at: October 8, 2024 5:00pm

Gropyus Secures $100M to Revolutionize Construction in Ukraine

Gropyus Secures $100M to Revolutionize Construction in Ukraine

Gropyus, founded by Markus Fuhrmann, has raised $100 million to aid in rebuilding homes in Ukraine using robotic technology. The startup specializes in prefabricating buildings, aiming to reduce construction time and costs significantly. With a total funding of $300 million, Gropyus plans to develop smart, sustainable apartments that function like modern EVs, offering over-the-air updates. The company has partnered with NGO ‘One Ukraine’ for its first pilot project, targeting the construction of 50 to 100 apartments. This initiative follows their effort to evacuate 13,000 people from war-torn areas in Ukraine.

Created at: October 8, 2024 3:00pm

Distributional Secures $19M to Enhance AI Testing Automation

Distributional Secures $19M to Enhance AI Testing Automation

Distributional, an AI testing platform founded by former Intel AI software head Scott Clark, has raised $19 million in Series A funding led by Two Sigma Ventures. The startup aims to automate AI model and app testing, addressing operational risks associated with AI applications. Clark's experience at Intel highlighted the challenges of AI monitoring, prompting the creation of Distributional. The platform allows teams to create and manage statistical tests for AI models, enhancing visibility and collaboration. With this funding, Distributional plans to expand its team and focus on enterprise deployments.

Created at: October 8, 2024 1:30pm

Ex-Amazon Exec Dave Clark Secures $100M for New Supply Chain Startup

Ex-Amazon Exec Dave Clark Secures $100M for New Supply Chain Startup

Dave Clark, the former CEO of Amazon's consumer division, has launched a new supply chain venture named Auger after his departure from Flexport. Auger has successfully raised $100 million in seed funding led by Oak HC/FT. The company aims to develop an AI-powered tool that integrates with inventory management systems to provide real-time insights. Clark emphasized the urgent need to address supply chain inefficiencies that affect both businesses and consumers. Despite a competitive landscape, Clark believes Auger will offer unique solutions to the challenges faced in supply chain management.

Created at: October 8, 2024 1:30pm

Infactory Secures $4M Seed Funding for AI Fact-Checking Innovation

Infactory Secures $4M Seed Funding for AI Fact-Checking Innovation

Infactory, a generative AI-based fact-checking startup co-founded by former Humane.AI executives, has raised $4 million in seed funding led by Bee Partners. The investment round, which values the company at $25 million, includes notable backers such as a16z’s Scout Fund and Alumni Ventures. Infactory plans to enhance its team and go-to-market strategy with the new capital. The startup focuses on improving online fact-checking, utilizing AI to assess the intent of search queries while avoiding biases inherent in large language models. Founded by Brooke Hartley Moy and Ken Kocienda, Infactory aims to partner selectively with data vendors.

Created at: October 8, 2024 12:30pm

TensorWave Aims to Challenge Nvidia with AMD-Powered AI Cloud Solution

TensorWave Aims to Challenge Nvidia with AMD-Powered AI Cloud Solution

TensorWave, a new startup founded in late 2023, is disrupting the AI cloud market by exclusively offering AMD hardware to compete with Nvidia's dominant GPU offerings. CEO Darrick Horton highlights the need for more competition in AI compute, citing Nvidia's monopoly as detrimental to innovation. Based in Las Vegas, TensorWave is already generating $3 million in annual revenue and aims for $25 million by year's end. With a recent $43 million funding round led by Nexus VP, the company is well-positioned for growth as it expands its capacity and customer base.

Created at: October 8, 2024 12:30pm

Lithios Innovates Lithium Extraction from Salty Water with Battery Tech

Lithios Innovates Lithium Extraction from Salty Water with Battery Tech

Lithios, a startup founded by Mo Alkhadra, is revolutionizing lithium extraction by using technology inspired by lithium-ion batteries. Instead of traditional mining methods, Lithios captures lithium from underground briny water, minimizing costs and environmental impact. Recently, the company raised $10 million in seed funding to scale its operations and develop a pilot system for field testing. Their method, which involves electrified intercalation compounds, allows for efficient lithium recovery while recycling water. With growing demand for sustainable lithium sources, Lithios aims to meet the needs of the electric vehicle industry.

Created at: October 8, 2024 11:00am

Emma Watson Boosts Women's Health with $14 Million Investment in Hertility

Emma Watson Boosts Women's Health with $14 Million Investment in Hertility

Actress Emma Watson has invested in Hertility, a women’s health startup, raising its total funding to over $14 million. Watson, a UN Women Goodwill ambassador, was introduced to the company by an investor who recognized her commitment to women's rights. Hertility, co-founded by Dr. Helen O’Neill, focuses on personalized reproductive health services. The investment aims to address significant gaps in women's healthcare, particularly in the U.K., where wait times are extensive. The funding comes amid a growing push for better access to women's health solutions globally.

Created at: October 8, 2024 8:20am

VESSL AI Raises $12M to Revolutionize MLOps and Slash GPU Costs

VESSL AI Raises $12M to Revolutionize MLOps and Slash GPU Costs

VESSL AI, a South Korean MLOps startup, has secured $12 million in Series A funding to enhance its platform, which aims to reduce GPU costs by up to 80%. The company utilizes a hybrid infrastructure that combines on-premise and cloud resources, catering to enterprises developing large language models and AI agents. With 50 enterprise clients, including Hyundai and TMAP Mobility, VESSL has established partnerships with Oracle and Google Cloud. The funding will accelerate development, addressing the growing demand for efficient machine learning operations amidst rising AI integration in businesses.

Created at: October 8, 2024 8:19am

General Catalyst Plans $1B Continuation Fund to Manage Late-Stage Startup Stakes

General Catalyst Plans $1B Continuation Fund to Manage Late-Stage Startup Stakes

General Catalyst is set to launch a continuation fund valued between $800 million and $1 billion, focusing on stakes in late-stage startups like Stripe, Gusto, and Circle. This fund allows the firm to retain management of its portfolio shares while providing original investors options to cash out or roll into the new fund. The rising popularity of continuation funds among venture capitalists reflects a shift due to fewer IPOs and M&A activities. Although beneficial, some limited partners may face losses due to the typical discount on secondaries. General Catalyst has not yet commented on this initiative.

Created at: October 8, 2024 8:15am

Lightdash Secures $11M to Enhance AI-driven Business Intelligence

Lightdash Secures $11M to Enhance AI-driven Business Intelligence

Lightdash, an open-source business intelligence platform, has raised $11 million in a Series A funding round led by Accel. The startup aims to empower companies with AI analysts tailored to specific team needs, enabling natural language queries for data insights. Originally known as Hubble, Lightdash pivoted from data quality testing to BI tools in 2021. The platform integrates seamlessly with SQL-based tools and prioritizes data security, allowing users to select their preferred LLM providers. With a seven-fold revenue increase in the past year, Lightdash plans to expand its team and product offerings.

Created at: October 8, 2024 8:14am