Introduction to Thinking Machines Lab
Former OpenAI chief technology officer Mira Murati is making waves in the AI industry with her new startup, Thinking Machines Lab. The company is currently raising around $2 billion in funding at a $10 billion valuation, with investors being asked to commit a minimum of $50 million.
The Funding Round
The funding round, led by Andreessen Horowitz, is nearing its final stages. This investment would be one of the largest seed rounds in history, with traditional seed investors typically investing in the low to mid-single digits. The $50 million check size is substantial, representing a significant percentage of most traditional seed investors’ entire fund.
Why the High Valuation?
The high valuation and minimum investment requirement reflect the intense enthusiasm for generative AI among investors. Murati’s expertise and the team she has assembled are highly sought after, and the cost of training AI models and recruiting top talent is extremely high. With limited technical founders like Murati, investors are eager to back her venture.
Mira Murati’s Background
Murati spent over six years at OpenAI, working on the development of ChatGPT and other AI research initiatives. She was briefly appointed interim CEO in November 2023 after OpenAI’s board fired Sam Altman, but resumed her role as CTO after Altman’s reinstatement.
What is Thinking Machines Lab?
While the exact details of Thinking Machines Lab’s mission are still unclear, Murati has positioned the startup as an artificial intelligence research and product lab focused on making AI more accessible. In a blog post earlier this year, she stated that the company aims to "bridge the gaps" and make AI systems more widely understood, customizable, and generally capable.
Conclusion
Thinking Machines Lab is poised to make a significant impact in the AI industry, with its substantial funding and talented team. As the company continues to grow and develop, it will be interesting to see how it distinguishes itself in a crowded field. With Murati’s expertise and the backing of prominent investors, Thinking Machines Lab is definitely a startup to watch in the coming years.
