Posted on

UltiHash Funded $2.5M for Sustainable Data Storage Solutions

Storage

UltiHash, a Berlin, Germany- and San Francisco, CA-based. Operator of a data infrastructure platform intended to grow data storage across the cloud and on-premises sustainably. The company’s platform connects cloud architectures with a unified infrastructure and maximizes the resource efficiency of big data applications, enabling clients to prevent unwanted redundancies and solve costly connectivity issues.

UltiHash was funded $2.5 million led by Inventure, with participation from PreSeedVentures, Tiny VC, Futuristic VC, The Nordic Web, Antti Karjalainen, Founder, and angel investors for Sequoia Capital, and other private investors.

Founded in 2022 by Tom Lüdersdorf – Co-Founder and CEO, Katja Belova – CTO, UltiHash is a data storage infrastructure that allows companies to grow data sustainably. The company connects cloud and on-premises architectures with a unified storage infrastructure and maximizes the resource efficiency of Big Data applications.

UltiHash has been at the forefront of developing eco-friendly data storage solutions. UltiHash’s unique approach combines cutting-edge algorithms with renewable energy sources to create a data storage solution that is not only more cost-effective than traditional methods but also significantly reduces carbon footprint. Their proprietary technology allows for high-density data storage, which uses less physical space and energy.

Data centers are one of the largest energy consumers globally, contributing substantially to carbon emissions. UltiHash’s solution directly addresses this challenge by significantly reducing the energy required for data storage. This reduction in energy use is not just beneficial for the environment but also translates into lower operational costs for clients.

With this new infusion of capital, UltiHash plans to expand its research and development efforts and scale its operations. The company aims to deploy its technology in partnership with major cloud service providers and data centers, demonstrating the practicality and benefits of its system on a large scale.

The founder of The Nordic Web Antti Karjalainen said, they see immense potential in UltiHash’s technology to set new standards in the data storage industry. Their focus on sustainability aligns perfectly with our mission to support innovative solutions that can make a real difference in reducing environmental impact.

By: K. Tagura

Author statement:

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

Distributional Funded $11M for AI Risk Mitigation Software

AI Risk

Distributional, a San Francisco, CA-based developer of an AI testing and evaluation platform intended to make AI risk safe, reliable, and secure. The company provides tools for continuous monitoring, generating test cases and analyzing results to ensure AI systems perform as expected, enabling customers to trust AI, ship AI products more frequently and realize the full potential impact of AI on their organization.

Distributional was funded $11 million led by Andreessen Horowitz with participation from Operator Stack, Point72 Ventures, SV Angel, Two Sigma, Willowtree Investments, and dozens of AI leaders as angel investors.

The investment is set to fuel the development of cutting-edge software aimed at minimizing potential threats associated with artificial intelligence systems. Distributional’s approach stands out for its focus on proactively managing and mitigating AI risk arising from AI advancements, a concern that has garnered increased attention in recent years.

CEO and co-founder, Scott Clark expressed his excitement about the support received, emphasizing the critical need for solutions addressing AI risks. AI holds immense promise, but it also introduces complex challenges and potential risks. At Distributional, they are committed to creating software that ensures the safe and responsible development and deployment of AI systems.

The company’s software aims to tackle a spectrum of AI-related risks, including algorithmic biases, unintended consequences, and potential threats arising from autonomous systems. By leveraging advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques, Distributional seeks to provide developers and organizations with tools to anticipate and mitigate these risks proactively.

The new capital is expected to bolster Distributional’s research and development efforts, accelerating the deployment of their software solutions. The company plans to expand its team of AI ethicists, data scientists, and software engineers to spearhead the initiative.

Clark emphasized that while AI brings unprecedented opportunities, it’s imperative to address the associated risks comprehensively. Their mission is to ensure that as AI continues to advance, it does so with a keen eye on safety, fairness, and accountability. This investment will significantly advance their progress toward achieving this goal.

By: K. Tagura

Author statement:

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

Armada Funded $55M to Bridge Global Digital Divide and Empower AI Data Use

Data

Armada is a San Francisco, CA-based Developer of an edge computing platform designed to revolutionize connectivity, computing, and artificial intelligence (AI) tools. The company builds and operates a resilient, secure, and scalable infrastructure, with a matching software component, providing users with a single control plane to efficiently manage and optimize data.

Armada was funded $55 million led by Founders Fund, Lux Capital, Shield Capital, and 8090 Industries, with participation from Felicis, Contrary, Valor Equity Partners, Marlinspike, 137 Ventures, Koch Real Estate Investments, 8VC and a cohort of other angel investors.

The funding will propel Armada forward in its mission to bridge the global digital divide, empowering businesses and communities to leverage all their data, regardless of where it’s generated. Armada is dedicated to unlocking the potential of generative AI, edge computing, and predictive models on a global scale. Armada’s mission of democratizing access to data analytics tools has resonated strongly with these backers.

The primary goal of Armada is to break down barriers hindering the effective utilization of data by businesses and communities across the globe. Despite the exponential growth of digital information, many entities need help leveraging their data effectively, especially in areas with limited connectivity and resources.

The CEO of Armada, Dan Wright, and Chief Operating Officer Jon Runyan expressed immense enthusiasm and gratitude for the support received. Wright highlighted that the funding injection would significantly aid in expanding Armada’s reach to underserved regions, allowing them to harness the power of their data for growth and development.

Armada’s innovative approach centers on creating accessible, user-friendly data analytics tools tailored for various environments, ensuring that irrespective of location or resources, businesses, and communities can unlock the potential of their data.

By providing the means for businesses and communities to capitalize on their data reservoirs, Armada envisions a future where data is not a limitation but an opportunity for empowerment and growth.

The strides made by Armada in addressing the global digital divide and empowering entities to maximize their data potential speak to a promising future where technological resources are accessible to all, transcending boundaries and driving collective advancement.

By: K. Tagura

Author statement:

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

Weighing the Value of an Investor’s Money Against Their Experience

Experience

In the world of entrepreneurship and business ventures, securing investment is often a pivotal step toward growth and success. However, when it comes to choosing an investor, entrepreneurs are faced with a fundamental question: Should they prioritize the financial capital an investor brings or the wealth of experience they offer?

It’s a dilemma that often prompts intense debate among startups and founders, with passionate arguments on both sides. Some advocate for the sheer monetary support an investor provides, while others emphasize the invaluable guidance and mentorship that an experienced investor brings to the table.

Let’s delve into the dichotomy between the value of an investor’s money and their experience, exploring the significance of each:

The Weight of an Investor’s Money

Financial backing from an investor is undeniably crucial for the growth and sustainability of any business. It serves as the lifeblood that fuels operational needs, facilitates expansion, and allows for strategic development. Here’s why the investor’s money holds such weight:

Fueling Growth and Innovation

Investment capital enables startups to scale operations, research new technologies, develop products, and explore untapped markets. This infusion of funds at critical stages can be a game-changer, propelling a business forward and providing a competitive edge.

Stability and Resilience

Having a solid financial base through investor funds can provide a safety net during challenging times. It ensures the company can weather unexpected market fluctuations, economic downturns, or other unforeseen obstacles without risking immediate collapse.

Attracting Further Investments

A credible investor’s financial backing often acts as a stamp of approval for other potential investors. It can attract additional funding rounds, creating a domino effect that further strengthens the financial foundation of the company.

The Essence of an Investor’s Experience

While money is undoubtedly important, the guidance, insights, and experience an investor brings can be invaluable. Here’s why the qualitative aspects of an investor’s involvement matter significantly:

Mentorship and Strategic Direction

Experienced investors often bring a wealth of knowledge gained from their own successes and failures. Their guidance can be instrumental in navigating complex business landscapes, offering strategic advice, and helping entrepreneurs avoid common pitfalls.

Industry Connections and Networks

Seasoned investors usually have extensive networks built over years, comprising industry experts, potential partners, and key decision-makers. Access to such networks can open doors to collaborations, strategic alliances, and market opportunities that money alone might not secure.

Long-Term Vision and Stability

Investors with experience often exhibit a long-term view, focusing on sustainable growth rather than short-term gains. Their insights and strategic direction can align with the entrepreneur’s vision, fostering a stable and enduring business model.

Striking the Balance

The debate over money versus experience isn’t necessarily an either/or scenario. Instead, it’s about striking a balance that aligns with the needs and aspirations of the startup. Here are some strategies to achieve this balance:

Thorough Due Diligence: Evaluate potential investors based on both their financial capability and their track record of mentorship and support.

Seek Alignment: Look for investors whose expertise aligns with your business goals and vision. A shared understanding and alignment of values can lead to a more fruitful partnership.

Open Communication: Discuss expectations and the level of involvement expected from the investor. This clarity can prevent misunderstandings down the line.

Diversification: Consider a diverse pool of investors, combining financial backers with different expertise and networks, to gain a comprehensive support system.

In conclusion, while an investor’s money provides the necessary resources, their experience and guidance contribute immensely to a startup’s success. Striking the right balance between financial support and mentorship can be the key to unlocking the full potential of a business venture. Ultimately, it’s the symbiotic relationship between capital and experience that drives innovation, growth, and long-term sustainability.

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

Rohirrim Funded $15M to Enhance the Domain-Aware AI in Enterprises

Enterprises

Rohirrim is a Reston, VA-based developer of automation market space designed to create cognitive architectures and artificial intelligence as an entity more than the sum of all its parts. The company’s platform offers domain-aware generative AI purpose-built for the enterprises and focused on delivering outcomes, enabling company teams to access value from proprietary data by securely ingesting and organizing information found in presentations, spreadsheets, proposals, whitepapers, and emails.

Rohirrim was funded $15 million led by Insight Partners with participation from existing angel investor General Purpose Venture Capital. The company intends to use the new investment to build its world-class team and enhance its platform and offering of secured company and task-specific language models.

CEO and co-founder of Rohirrim, Steven Aberle, expressed enthusiasm about the funding’s implications. The significant investment validates their vision and empowers them to expand their research and development efforts. Their goal is to revolutionize how enterprises harness AI, providing intelligent tools that effectively comprehend and create domain-specific content.

Rohirrim’s proprietary technology leverages advanced neural networks and machine learning algorithms honed through extensive training on industry-specific data sets. The resulting AI models possess an unparalleled understanding of various domains, enabling them to generate high-quality content, make predictions, and assist in decision-making processes within those sectors.

The funding injection will predominantly fuel the scaling of Rohirrim’s engineering and research teams, facilitating enhancements to their AI models and the development of new products tailored for enterprise applications. The company aims to bolster its customer support infrastructure to serve a growing client base seeking domain-specific AI solutions.

The demand for AI technologies tailored to specific industries has steadily risen, driven by the need for personalized, efficient, and contextually relevant solutions within enterprises. Rohirrim’s approach stands out for its ability to comprehend the nuances and intricacies of diverse domains, offering a promising avenue for businesses seeking intelligent AI-driven tools.

With this recent investment, Rohirrim is poised to cement its position as a frontrunner in domain-aware generative AI further, poised to revolutionize how enterprises leverage artificial intelligence to drive innovation and efficiency within their respective sectors.

By: K. Tagura

Author statement:

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

2024 Success: 5 Vital Questions for Entrepreneurs

Success

As we step into a new year, the entrepreneurial landscape continues to evolve, presenting both challenges and opportunities for those navigating the world of business. In the pursuit of success, entrepreneurs need to navigate uncertainties and make strategic decisions to propel their ventures forward. To thrive in 2024 and beyond, here are five pivotal questions every entrepreneur must consider:

1. What’s the Pulse of the Market?

Understanding the market pulse is fundamental. Entrepreneurs need to continually evaluate market trends, consumer behavior, and emerging technologies. Is there a shift in consumer preferences or an untapped niche waiting to be explored? Assessing the market’s current state enables entrepreneurs to align their products or services with evolving demands, fostering innovation and relevance.

2. How Agile Is Your Business Model?

Adaptability is crucial in today’s dynamic business environment. Entrepreneurs must evaluate the flexibility of their business models. Can your model swiftly respond to market changes and consumer needs? Embracing agility allows businesses to pivot, experiment, and refine strategies swiftly, staying ahead in competitive landscapes and seizing new opportunities.

3. Are You Prioritizing Innovation?

Innovation remains a cornerstone of entrepreneurial success. Are you fostering a culture of creativity and innovation within your organization? Entrepreneurs need to encourage a mindset that values experimentation, welcomes new ideas, and promotes continuous improvement. Embracing innovation fosters differentiation, enhances offerings, and maintains a competitive edge.

4. How Strong Is Your Digital Presence?

In an increasingly digital world, a robust online presence is non-negotiable. Entrepreneurs must assess their digital strategies. Is your online presence strong enough to engage and retain customers? Investing in digital marketing, e-commerce platforms, and utilizing social media effectively can significantly impact brand visibility, customer engagement, and sales growth.

5. What’s Your Approach to Sustainability?

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a critical factor in business success. Entrepreneurs should evaluate their approach to sustainability. Are your operations environmentally conscious? Is there a commitment to social responsibility? Embracing sustainable practices not only contributes positively to the planet but also resonates with an increasingly conscientious consumer base.

Final Thoughts

As entrepreneurs’ step into 2024, addressing these five fundamental questions can guide them towards unlocking success. Embracing change, fostering innovation, and adapting to the evolving landscape are key tenets of thriving in the dynamic world of business. By conscientiously considering these factors, entrepreneurs can chart a path to sustainable growth and enduring success in the year ahead.

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

Vivodyne Funded $38M to Advance Drug Discovery and AI Technology

Drug

Vivodyne, a Philadephia, PA-based and pioneering figure in pharmaceutical innovation, has announced a triumphant milestone in its journey towards revolutionizing drug discovery. Vivodyne was funded $38 million, and the company is poised to amplify its drug-discovery pipeline and clinical AI stack capabilities significantly.

The funding was led by Khosla Ventures, with participation from Kairos Ventures, strategic angel investors of CS Ventures, MBX Capital, and Bison Ventures. There are prominent investors in the biotech and technology sectors, which marks a pivotal moment for Vivodyne. This financial boost comes as validation of the company’s groundbreaking approach to leveraging artificial intelligence in accelerating the development of novel therapeutics.

CEO and co-founders Vivodyne Andrei Georgescu and Dan Huh expressed profound gratitude for the support they received from investors. The new investment is a testament to the tireless dedication of their team and the potential of their technology to redefine the landscape of drug discovery.

Vivodyne’s proprietary AI-driven platform integrates cutting-edge machine learning algorithms with comprehensive biological data, enabling rapid and precise identification of potential drug candidates. This transformative approach significantly expedites the traditionally lengthy and resource-intensive drug development process.

The infusion of capital will bolster Vivodyne’s research initiatives across various therapeutic areas, amplifying the company’s efforts to tackle some of the most challenging diseases and medical conditions. Additionally, the investment will fuel the expansion of its multidisciplinary team, attracting top talent in AI, biology, and pharmaceuticals to further enhance its technological prowess.

The company’s commitment to ethical and responsible innovation in drug discovery remains steadfast. Vivodyne emphasizes stringent adherence to regulatory standards and ethical considerations, ensuring the safety and efficacy of the therapies developed through its platform.

As Vivodyne continues to break new ground at the intersection of artificial intelligence and biotechnology, the industry eagerly anticipates the impact of its innovative approach on the future of medicine.

By: K. Tagura

Author statement:

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

Artisan AI Funded $2.3M to Enhance Product Development

Product

Artisan AI, a San Francisco, CA-based, a burgeoning tech startup specializing in innovative artificial intelligence solutions. Artisan AI was funded $2.3 million led by Y Combinator, Bayhouse Capital, and Oliver Jung, who was an early investor in Revolut, Robinhood and Brex, and other strategic angel investors. The investment is aimed at bolstering the company’s engineering capabilities and amplifying its product development initiatives.

The funding round signifies a vote of confidence in Artisan AI’s vision and potential within the rapidly evolving AI landscape. The company has strategically earmarked the investment to augment its core engineering team, focusing on recruiting top-tier talent, and fostering a culture of innovation.

Artisan AI CEO and co-founder Caspar Carmichael-Jack, and Dr. Rupert Dodkins expressed enthusiasm about the latest funding milestone, stating that the new funding injection marks a pivotal moment for Artisan AI. It not only validates their mission but empowers them to accelerate the development of cutting-edge AI technologies.

Artisan AI has garnered attention for its commitment to delivering AI-driven solutions that address real-world challenges across diverse industries. With an emphasis on leveraging AI for tangible, practical applications, the company aims to redefine conventional paradigms and unlock new possibilities.

The infusion of capital will be primarily allocated towards scaling up the engineering team, enabling the company to expedite its product roadmap. The goal is to enhance existing AI models, pioneer new algorithms, and streamline the integration of AI solutions into various sectors, ranging from healthcare and finance to logistics and beyond.

Their focus remains steadfast on creating AI tools that not only revolutionize industries but also prioritize ethical and responsible deployment.

Artisan AI has garnered acclaim for its interdisciplinary approach, drawing talent from diverse backgrounds to foster a dynamic and inclusive work environment. The infusion of funds will facilitate the recruitment of top-notch engineers, data scientists, and product developers to fortify the company’s standing as a trailblazer in the AI sphere.

The successful funding round sets the stage for Artisan AI to amplify its footprint in the AI domain, positioning itself as a formidable force driving innovation and reshaping the future of AI-powered solutions.

Artisan AI is poised to scale its operations, accelerate product development, and make significant strides towards fulfilling its vision of creating transformative AI technologies that positively impact society.

By: K. Tagura

Author statement:

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

Dashtoon Funded $5M to Expand Generative AI for Storytellers Worldwide

Storytellers

Dashtoon is a San Francisco, CA-based developer of a storytelling platform intended for curating stories across the globe and visualizing them into comics and graphic novels. The company’s platform leverages Generative AI technology to offer publishing services that release new episodes daily for readers, enabling storytellers worldwide to create illustrated content with unprecedented ease and speed.

Dashtoon was funded $5 million led by Matrix Partners India and Stellaris Venture Partners with participation from prominent angel investors. The recent funding round to further advance its technology and expand its services, empowering storytellers and content creators around the globe. The company’s cutting-edge AI platform is designed to assist writers, filmmakers, and artists in generating compelling narratives and content.

The company’s AI technology has gained popularity in the creative industries, providing a powerful tool for content creators seeking to streamline their creative process and overcome writer’s block. With this recent injection of capital, the company is well-positioned to push the boundaries of generative AI, opening up new possibilities for storytelling.

Aakash Kumar, the Matrix managing director, said they are thrilled to support Dashtoon’s mission to revolutionize the creative industry with their state-of-the-art generative AI technology. The global market for creative content is enormous, and Dashtoon’s tools will not only empower storytellers but also enhance the quality and diversity of content available to audiences.

Dashtoon’s generative AI platform utilizes deep learning algorithms and natural language processing to assist creators in generating original storylines, characters, and dialogue. Whether it’s a novelist working on a new novel, a screenwriter developing a screenplay, or a marketer crafting compelling narratives for a brand, Dashtoon aims to make the creative process more efficient and effective.

Sanidhya Narain, one of the innovators of Dashtoon, expressed their excitement for the future of generative AI in the creative world. Their team is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what generative AI can do for storytellers. This investment will help them expand their platform’s capabilities, making it easier than ever for creators to harness the power of AI in their work.

By: K. Tagura

Author statement:

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

From Products to Solutions: Meeting Customer and Investor Needs

Products

In today’s fast-paced and dynamic business environment, the focus is shifting away from merely offering products to customers and investors. It’s no longer enough to create a fantastic widget or a cutting-edge gadget and expect the world to beat a path to your door. What customers and investors truly desire are solutions to their problems and challenges. This shift in perspective is crucial for businesses that want to thrive in the modern marketplace. In this article, we will delve into the idea that customers and investors don’t want products; they want solutions.

Understanding the Problem:

The first step in providing a solution is understanding the problem. This holds true for both customers and investors. Customers have specific needs, pain points, and challenges that they are looking to address. Investors, on the other hand, are seeking opportunities that provide solutions to broader market problems. To capture their attention, it’s essential for businesses to identify the problems their products or services solve.

Customer-Centric Approach:

Customers are drawn to companies that put their needs and experiences at the forefront. When businesses adopt a customer-centric approach, they are better equipped to offer solutions that cater to real-world problems. Instead of merely selling products, they create experiences that add value to the customer’s life. For example, the smartphone industry shifted from selling devices to providing solutions for communication, productivity, and entertainment.

The Role of Innovation:

Innovation is a driving force behind solutions that cater to both customers and investors. To create a product that truly addresses a problem, businesses must continuously innovate. A static product may solve a problem today, but it might become obsolete as new challenges emerge. Innovations in products, services, and processes ensure that a business remains a relevant problem solver in the long run.

Investors Seek Market Potential:

Investors are primarily interested in the market potential of a business. They invest in companies that have the capacity to provide solutions to a large number of customers. Businesses that can demonstrate how their products or services address significant market gaps or problems are more likely to attract investor interest. This highlights the importance of understanding market dynamics and positioning your offering as a solution.

Building Trust and Loyalty:

Customers and investors are more likely to engage with businesses they trust. When a business consistently provides solutions that meet or exceed expectations, it builds trust and loyalty. This trust extends to investors, who are more likely to invest in a company that has a proven track record of solving problems and delivering value to customers.

Adapting to Changing Needs:

Customer needs and market dynamics are constantly evolving. Businesses that focus on providing solutions, rather than products, are more adaptable to changing circumstances. They can pivot and adjust their offerings to continue addressing current challenges. In contrast, businesses that are product-centric may find it challenging to stay relevant in a shifting landscape.

Conclusion:

In the world of business, the paradigm is shifting from selling products to providing solutions. Customers and investors alike are looking for businesses that can address real-world problems, adapt to changing needs, and create value in their lives. By understanding the problems, adopting a customer-centric approach, embracing innovation, and building trust and loyalty, businesses can position themselves as solution providers rather than mere product sellers. This shift in perspective is crucial for long-term success in the ever-evolving marketplace. So, remember, customers and investors don’t want products. They want solutions.

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.