News reporting focused on AI and machine learning, covering the companies behind these technologies, their real-world applications, and the ethical concerns they raise. This includes areas like generative AI (large language models, text-to-image and video), speech tech, and predictive analytics.
Blacksmith, an AI code-testing startup, has raised a $45 million Series B led by Peak XV Partners, valuing the company at $550 million – a nearly 10x jump from its previous valuation. The company has grown from 700 to over 5,000 customers in under a year, with revenue reaching tens of millions. Blacksmith plans to expand beyond testing into a broader suite of coding tools.
WindBorne Systems, a startup using long-flying weather balloons and AI forecasting, raised $37M in Series B funding led by Khosla Ventures and Galvanize, valuing the company at $250M. The funds will expand its commercial business, improve data collection with mesh radio networks, and build a go-to-market team. WindBorne serves government clients like the U.S. National Weather Service and aims to grow in private markets, including investment funds.
Parallel Web Systems, founded by ex-Twitter CEO Parag Agrawal, raised $100 million in Series B funding at a $2 billion valuation. Sequoia led the round, with participation from Kleiner Perkins, Index Ventures, Khosla Ventures, First Round Capital, Spark Capital, and Terrain Capital. This follows a $100 million Series A five months ago at $740 million valuation, bringing total funding to $230 million.