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  • General Fusion Secures $1B Funding Through Reverse Merger

    General Fusion Secures $1B Funding Through Reverse Merger

    General Fusion Navigates Funding Challenges with $1B Reverse Merger

    In a move that underscores the volatile nature of the fusion power sector, General Fusion is set to go public via a reverse merger valued at $1 billion. This strategic maneuver, as reported by TechCrunch, will provide the company with over $300 million in capital, a critical infusion following a period of financial strain.

    General Fusion, a key player in the pursuit of fusion energy, has been grappling with the complexities of securing funding. The company’s decision to pursue a reverse merger highlights the hurdles faced in attracting traditional investment, particularly in the capital-intensive field of fusion power. This approach, which involves merging with an existing acquisition company, offers a pathway to public markets, allowing General Fusion to access a broader pool of investors.

    The Mechanics of the Merger

    The reverse merger, a method of going public, is designed to inject much-needed capital into General Fusion. The process bypasses the more traditional and often more arduous initial public offering (IPO) route. This transaction is expected to provide General Fusion with approximately $300 million, a sum intended to fuel its ongoing research and development efforts. The “how” of this is through a merger with an acquisition company.

    Challenges in Securing Funding

    The decision to pursue a reverse merger comes after the company encountered difficulties in raising funds from conventional investors. The “why” behind the reverse merger is to go public and raise money. This is a common challenge within the fusion power industry, where the promise of long-term returns often clashes with the immediate financial demands of research, development, and scaling operations.

    The difficulties General Fusion faced last year in securing investment reflect broader trends within the technology and energy sectors. The fusion power industry, while holding immense potential to reshape the energy landscape, is still in its nascent stages. Investors often approach such ventures with caution, factoring in the high costs, extended timelines, and inherent technological risks associated with fusion research.

    Looking Ahead

    The reverse merger represents a pivotal moment for General Fusion. It offers a chance to secure the financial resources needed to advance its fusion technology. The success of this strategy hinges on the company’s ability to navigate the public market landscape, maintain investor confidence, and ultimately, achieve its long-term goals. The “when” is 2026, when the merger is expected to be finalized.

    The company’s journey underscores the intricate dance between innovation, investment, and market dynamics within the energy sector. As General Fusion embarks on this new chapter, the industry will be closely watching to see if this strategic move will pave the way for a more sustainable and successful future.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Neurophos Raises $110M for AI Optical Chip Revolution

    Neurophos Raises $110M for AI Optical Chip Revolution

    Neurophos Raises $110M to Revolutionize AI Inferencing with Optical Chips

    In a significant stride toward a more efficient future for artificial intelligence, Neurophos has secured a substantial $110 million in funding. This investment underscores the growing recognition of the critical need to address the power consumption issues plaguing the AI industry. Neurophos is tackling this challenge head-on with an innovative approach: developing tiny optical processors designed specifically for AI inferencing tasks.

    The Quest for Power Efficiency in AI

    The AI industry is booming, but its growth is being hampered by a significant bottleneck: power efficiency. As AI models become more complex, the energy required to run them skyrockets, leading to increased costs, environmental concerns, and limitations in deployment, particularly in edge computing scenarios. Neurophos aims to overcome these limitations by using a novel optical chip that leverages a composite material to perform the complex mathematical operations required for AI inferencing tasks.

    This innovative approach promises to drastically reduce power consumption compared to traditional electronic chips. By using light instead of electricity, Neurophos hopes to create processors that are not only more energy-efficient but also faster and more compact. This could open up new possibilities for AI applications in various fields, from mobile devices to data centers.

    How Neurophos Is Doing It

    The core of Neurophos’s technology lies in its use of a composite material that can manipulate light in intricate ways. This allows the chip to perform the complex calculations needed for AI inferencing with remarkable efficiency. The company’s focus on optical processing represents a paradigm shift from conventional electronic processors. This shift could lead to a new generation of AI hardware that is more sustainable and capable of handling increasingly complex tasks.

    This is where the ‘how’ comes into play. The company is using a composite material to perform the math required in AI inferencing tasks. This is a key element of the process.

    The Significance of the $110M Funding

    The $110 million funding round is a testament to the potential of Neurophos’s technology and the confidence investors have in its vision. This investment will enable the company to accelerate its research and development efforts, scale up production, and bring its innovative optical processors to market. The funding will also support the expansion of its team and infrastructure, positioning Neurophos to become a leader in the AI hardware space.

    This funding will help Neurophos solve the AI industry’s power efficiency problem and perform AI inferencing tasks.

    Looking Ahead

    The future looks bright for Neurophos. By focusing on optical processing, the company is positioning itself at the forefront of a technological revolution. As AI continues to evolve, the need for more efficient and powerful hardware will only increase. With its innovative approach and substantial funding, Neurophos is well-equipped to meet this demand and shape the future of artificial intelligence. The company’s success could pave the way for a new era of AI, one that is more sustainable, accessible, and powerful.

    This article is based on the information from TechCrunch.

  • Neurophos Raises $110M for AI Optical Processors

    Neurophos Raises $110M for AI Optical Processors

    Neurophos Raises $110M to Build Tiny, Efficient Optical Processors for AI

    In a move that could reshape the future of artificial intelligence, Neurophos has secured a substantial $110 million in funding. The company is tackling the AI industry’s persistent power efficiency problem head-on with an ambitious project: the development of an optical chip designed specifically for AI inferencing tasks. This innovative approach leverages a composite material to perform the complex mathematical calculations required for these tasks, promising a significant leap forward in processing efficiency.

    The Power Efficiency Problem in AI

    The rapid advancement of AI has been accompanied by a significant challenge: the escalating power consumption of AI systems. As AI models grow in complexity, the energy required to run them increases exponentially. This not only raises operational costs but also limits the deployment of AI in resource-constrained environments, such as edge devices and mobile applications. Neurophos’s solution, an optical chip, offers a potential pathway to overcome these limitations.

    How Neurophos Is Tackling the Challenge

    Neurophos is employing a novel approach by utilizing an optical chip built with a composite material. The primary goal is to address the power-hungry nature of current AI inferencing processes. By using light instead of electricity for computation, Neurophos aims to significantly reduce energy consumption. This shift to optical processing could lead to more efficient AI hardware, enabling faster and more cost-effective AI inferencing. The use of a composite material is central to this innovation, allowing the chip to perform complex calculations with remarkable efficiency.

    The Significance of the Funding

    The $110 million in funding represents a significant vote of confidence in Neurophos’s vision and technological approach. This capital infusion will likely fuel the company’s research and development efforts, allowing it to accelerate the development and commercialization of its optical chip technology. The investment suggests a strong belief in the potential of Neurophos to disrupt the AI hardware market and provide a sustainable solution to the industry’s energy concerns.

    The Broader Impact on AI

    The success of Neurophos could have far-reaching implications for the AI landscape. More efficient AI hardware could pave the way for advancements in various fields, including:

    • Edge computing: Enabling AI applications on devices with limited power resources.
    • Mobile AI: Improving the performance and battery life of AI-powered smartphones and other mobile devices.
    • Data centers: Reducing the operational costs and environmental footprint of AI infrastructure.

    By addressing the power efficiency issue, Neurophos is contributing to a future where AI is more accessible, sustainable, and powerful.

    In essence, Neurophos’s innovative approach promises to redefine the landscape of AI hardware. The company’s focus on optical chips and composite materials provides a fresh perspective on how to tackle the persistent power efficiency challenge. With $110 million in funding, Neurophos is well-positioned to drive significant advances in AI inferencing, potentially reshaping the future of AI technology.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • OpenEvidence Valuation Soars to $12B: Thrive & DST Lead

    OpenEvidence Valuation Soars to $12B: Thrive & DST Lead

    OpenEvidence Soars to $12B Valuation: Thrive and DST Lead New Funding Round

    In a significant development for the tech and medical information sectors, OpenEvidence, a leading medical info database, has reached a valuation of $12 billion. This impressive figure, announced on January 21, 2026, marks a doubling of its valuation since its previous funding round in October. The new investment round is spearheaded by Thrive and DST, indicating a strong vote of confidence in OpenEvidence’s continued growth and potential.

    The rapid ascent of OpenEvidence in valuation underscores the increasing importance of reliable and accessible medical information in today’s world. Its database serves as a critical resource for healthcare professionals, researchers, and other stakeholders. This growth comes despite increasing competition from model makers and other players in the tech landscape. The fact that OpenEvidence has not only sustained but accelerated its valuation growth speaks volumes about its market position and the value it provides.

    Key Players and Their Roles

    The recent funding round highlights the strategic importance of OpenEvidence and the confidence of its investors. Thrive and DST, the primary investors in this round, are well-known for their strategic investments in high-growth companies. Their involvement provides both capital and valuable industry expertise. The fact that these established investment firms are willing to back OpenEvidence at this valuation indicates the perceived long-term potential of the company and its business model.

    Market Context and Future Prospects

    The medical information landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and data sources emerging regularly. OpenEvidence has positioned itself as a key player in this space by curating and providing access to a comprehensive and reliable database. The company’s ability to maintain its growth trajectory, even in the face of competition, demonstrates its strong market position and the value it delivers to its users.

    The new funding will likely be used to further develop and expand OpenEvidence’s database, as well as to invest in new technologies and services. With the backing of Thrive and DST, the company is well-positioned for continued success. This investment round will enable OpenEvidence to maintain its competitive edge and continue to innovate in the medical information space. The company’s success is a testament to the increasing reliance on data-driven insights in healthcare, and its future looks bright.

    The rapid growth and high valuation of OpenEvidence reflect broader trends in the tech and healthcare industries, where data-driven solutions are becoming increasingly important. The company’s success underscores the value of reliable and accessible medical information and its potential for continued growth in the years to come.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • OpenEvidence Valuation Soars to $12B with Thrive, DST Funding

    OpenEvidence Valuation Soars to $12B with Thrive, DST Funding

    OpenEvidence Hits $12B Valuation, Bolstered by New Funding

    In a remarkable display of investor confidence, OpenEvidence, the medical information database, has achieved a $12 billion valuation. This significant milestone, announced on January 21, 2026, marks a substantial increase from its previous valuation just a few months prior. The new funding round was led by prominent investment firms Thrive and DST, underscoring the company’s continued growth trajectory and the perceived value of its services.

    A Rapid Ascent in Valuation

    The impressive valuation of OpenEvidence is particularly noteworthy given the competitive landscape. The company has essentially doubled its valuation since its last funding round in October. This rapid growth highlights the increasing demand for reliable, comprehensive medical information, as well as the investors’ belief in OpenEvidence’s ability to navigate the challenges posed by competitors. The investment led by Thrive and DST is a clear indicator of the market’s positive outlook.

    The Players: Thrive, DST, and OpenEvidence

    The key players in this financial success story are OpenEvidence itself, along with the investment firms Thrive and DST. OpenEvidence, the core of this narrative, provides a critical service in the medical field by curating and maintaining a robust database of medical information. The new funding round, spearheaded by Thrive and DST, will likely fuel further expansion and development of their platform. Their contributions are pivotal for OpenEvidence’s continued success.

    The Significance of the Investment

    This new round of funding is not just a financial injection; it is a vote of confidence in OpenEvidence’s business model and its potential for future growth. The fact that the valuation has doubled in a short period suggests that investors see significant opportunities for OpenEvidence to further consolidate its position in the market. The investment from Thrive and DST is a strategic move, positioning them at the forefront of the medical information landscape.

    Navigating the Competitive Landscape

    The medical information sector is increasingly competitive, with several players vying for market share. Despite this, OpenEvidence has managed to not only maintain its position but also to significantly increase its valuation. This suggests that OpenEvidence has a unique value proposition, potentially through its data quality, its user-friendly interface, or its strategic partnerships. The ability to thrive amidst competition is a testament to the strength of its underlying business model.

    Looking Ahead

    The future looks bright for OpenEvidence. With the backing of Thrive, DST, and other investors, the company is well-positioned to continue its expansion and innovation. The increased valuation reflects the market’s recognition of OpenEvidence’s importance in the medical field and its potential for long-term success. As the landscape continues to evolve, OpenEvidence is poised to remain a key player, providing crucial medical information to professionals worldwide.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Preply’s Unicorn Status: Ukrainian Resilience in Language Learning

    Preply’s Unicorn Status: Ukrainian Resilience in Language Learning

    Preply’s Unicorn Status: A Testament to Ukrainian Resilience in Language Learning

    In the dynamic world of online education, certain milestones stand out, signaling not just financial success but also the embodiment of resilience and innovation. Preply, the language learning marketplace, has reached such a milestone, achieving unicorn status with a valuation of $1.2 billion. This achievement, underscored by a recent $150 million funding round, marks a significant chapter in the company’s 14-year journey. The story of Preply is not just one of business growth; it’s a narrative of adapting and thriving in the face of adversity, particularly emphasizing the resilience of its Ukrainian roots.

    A New Chapter for Preply

    Preply, a language learning marketplace, has transformed the way people learn new languages. The platform connects students with tutors for personalized online lessons. The recent investment of $150 million validates Preply’s business model and its potential for further expansion. This funding will likely fuel further product development, market expansion, and the enhancement of its platform. This new valuation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Preply team, and it positions the company for continued growth and impact in the language learning sector.

    The Intersection of Business and Resilience

    The story of Preply is interwoven with the broader narrative of Ukraine, where the company originated. The determination to succeed, even amidst challenging circumstances, is a core value, reflecting the spirit of its founders and employees. This resilience has been a key factor in Preply’s ability to navigate various challenges and emerge stronger. The company’s success story is a powerful reminder of how innovation and perseverance can flourish, even when faced with significant obstacles.

    The valuation of Preply at $1.2 billion highlights the increasing demand for accessible and effective language learning solutions. With a globalized world, the need for effective communication is greater than ever before. Preply’s platform provides an important service, connecting learners with tutors from around the world to facilitate language acquisition. The company’s growth reflects a broader trend towards online education and the increasing value placed on language skills in a globalized world.

    Looking Ahead

    Preply’s journey is a powerful example of how businesses can thrive and adapt. With its recent funding and unicorn status, the company is poised to continue its growth trajectory, further solidifying its position in the language learning market. The success of Preply is a source of pride, particularly for its Ukrainian roots. The company’s story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the power of resilience, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence.

    In conclusion, Preply’s achievement is more than just a financial milestone. It’s a symbol of hope, resilience, and the power of innovation in the face of adversity. As Preply embarks on this new chapter, the world will be watching, eager to see how it continues to shape the future of language learning.

  • Preply’s Unicorn Status: Ukrainian Resilience in EdTech

    Preply’s Unicorn Status: Ukrainian Resilience in EdTech

    Preply’s Unicorn Status: A Testament to Ukrainian Resilience

    In the dynamic world of online education, a significant milestone has been reached. Preply, the language learning marketplace, has achieved unicorn status, now valued at an impressive $1.2 billion. This achievement is not just a number; it’s a testament to the company’s growth and the resilience of its Ukrainian roots. The recent raising of $150 million in funding marks a new chapter for the 14-year-old company, solidifying its position in the competitive language learning market.

    The Rise of Preply: A Language Learning Success Story

    Preply’s journey began 14 years ago, evolving into a leading platform connecting students with tutors for personalized language learning experiences. The marketplace model has proven successful, offering a diverse range of languages and tutors to cater to various learning needs. The company’s focus on providing a user-friendly platform, combined with its commitment to quality instruction, has fueled its growth and attracted significant investment.

    The recent funding round of $150 million is a clear indication of investor confidence in Preply’s vision and potential. This investment will likely be used to further expand its platform, enhance its technological capabilities, and broaden its reach to new markets. The company’s ability to attract such substantial funding speaks volumes about its market position and future prospects. Preply’s success story is a compelling example of how innovation and dedication can lead to remarkable achievements.

    Ukrainian Resilience in the Face of Challenges

    The fact that Preply is a Ukrainian-founded company adds another layer of significance to this achievement. Amidst the ongoing challenges faced by Ukraine, Preply’s success is a beacon of hope and a symbol of resilience. The company’s ability to thrive and attract investment in such a challenging environment underscores the strength and determination of Ukrainian entrepreneurs. This achievement is not just a business success; it’s a statement about the enduring spirit of the Ukrainian people.

    Preply’s story resonates with the broader narrative of Ukrainian resilience, demonstrating the capacity to innovate, adapt, and succeed even in the face of adversity. This achievement serves as an inspiration, showcasing the power of entrepreneurship and the unwavering spirit of a nation.

    Looking Ahead: The Future of Preply

    With its new valuation and fresh funding, Preply is poised for further growth. The company is well-positioned to capitalize on the increasing demand for online language learning. As the world becomes more interconnected, the need for effective language acquisition will continue to grow, and Preply is at the forefront of this trend.

    Preply’s future looks bright, with the potential to expand its offerings, reach new markets, and further solidify its position as a leader in the language learning industry. The company’s success is a testament to its innovative approach, its commitment to quality, and the resilience of its Ukrainian roots.

  • Another Raises $2.5M to Solve Retail Excess Inventory

    Another Raises $2.5M to Solve Retail Excess Inventory

    Another Secures $2.5M Seed Funding to Tackle Retail Excess Inventory

    In a move that signals growing investor interest in retail solutions, Another, a retail startup, has successfully closed a $2.5 million seed round. This investment, spearheaded by Anthemis FIL and Westbound, is designed to fuel Another’s mission: assisting retailers in effectively managing and selling their excess inventory. The funding, announced in 2026, highlights the ongoing need for innovative approaches to inventory management within the retail sector.

    Addressing the Excess Inventory Challenge

    The problem of excess inventory has long plagued the retail industry. It ties up capital, occupies valuable warehouse space, and can lead to significant losses through markdowns and obsolescence. Another aims to provide a streamlined solution, enabling retailers to efficiently move off-channel inventory. This is particularly crucial in today’s fast-paced market, where consumer preferences shift rapidly and supply chain disruptions can exacerbate inventory imbalances.

    The seed funding will be instrumental in allowing Another to refine its platform, expand its team, and broaden its reach within the retail landscape. By focusing on off-channel inventory, Another is targeting a specific niche, offering retailers a dedicated solution to a persistent problem.

    The Investors: Anthemis FIL and Westbound

    The backing of Anthemis FIL and Westbound is a strong endorsement of Another’s potential. These investors bring valuable experience and insights into the financial and retail technology sectors. Their involvement underscores the growing recognition of the importance of efficient inventory management in driving profitability and sustainability for retailers.

    Anthemis FIL, known for its strategic investments in fintech, and Westbound, with its focus on early-stage companies, provide Another with both financial support and strategic guidance. This partnership is expected to accelerate Another’s growth and market penetration.

    How Another Works

    Another is designed to help retailers manage their excess inventory by providing a platform to sell off-channel inventory. This involves connecting retailers with the right channels to sell their inventory. The details of the process are not included in the provided text. The core function is to streamline the process, reduce costs, and maximize the return on excess inventory for retailers.

    Looking Ahead

    With this seed round secured, Another is well-positioned to make a significant impact on the retail industry. By addressing the challenges of excess inventory head-on, Another is contributing to a more efficient and sustainable retail ecosystem. The investment from Anthemis FIL and Westbound provides Another with the resources and expertise needed to execute its vision and scale its operations.

    The successful seed round is a testament to the value Another offers to the retail industry, and it signals a positive outlook for the future. As retailers continue to seek innovative solutions to optimize their operations, Another is poised to become a key player in inventory management.

  • Another Raises $2.5M to Solve Retail Excess Inventory

    Another Raises $2.5M to Solve Retail Excess Inventory

    Another Secures $2.5M Seed Funding to Tackle Retail Excess Inventory

    In a move that signals growing interest in innovative inventory solutions, retail startup Another has successfully closed a $2.5 million seed round. The funding, led by Anthemis FIL and Westbound, is earmarked to support Another’s mission of helping retailers efficiently manage and sell their excess inventory. This strategic investment underscores the increasing need for streamlined inventory management in the ever-evolving retail landscape.

    Addressing the Excess Inventory Challenge

    The problem of excess inventory has long plagued the retail industry, leading to lost revenue, storage costs, and environmental concerns. Another aims to provide a solution by enabling retailers to sell off-channel inventory. This means providing retailers with a platform to move surplus products through various channels beyond their primary sales outlets.

    Key Players and Their Roles

    The seed round was spearheaded by Anthemis FIL and Westbound. These firms bring significant expertise in the financial technology and investment sectors. Their backing of Another highlights the potential of the startup’s approach to revolutionizing inventory management. The specific strategies and platforms that Another will employ to facilitate this process were not specified in the source material.

    The ‘Why’ Behind the Investment

    The core motivation behind Another’s efforts is to provide retailers with an effective means of managing their off-channel inventory. This is driven by several key factors including: the need to reduce waste, the opportunity to recover value from unsold goods, and the ability to improve overall profitability. By offering a platform to manage and sell excess inventory, Another aims to address these critical challenges and offer a more sustainable business model for retailers.

    Looking Ahead

    This funding represents a pivotal moment for Another. With the backing of Anthemis FIL and Westbound, the startup is well-positioned to scale its operations and make a significant impact on the retail sector. The focus will likely be on expanding its platform, refining its technology, and forming partnerships with retailers seeking to optimize their inventory management strategies. The long-term implications of this approach could include reduced waste, increased revenue for retailers, and a more efficient retail ecosystem overall.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Humans& Raises $480M for Human-Centric AI

    Humans& Raises $480M for Human-Centric AI

    Humans& Raises $480M to Build Human-Centric AI

    In a move that signals a significant shift in the AI landscape, Humans&, a startup with a compelling vision, has announced a substantial $480 million seed round. The company, founded by a team of industry veterans from Anthropic, xAI, and Google, is setting out to redefine the role of AI, focusing on how it can empower individuals rather than simply automating tasks. This approach is reflected in their core philosophy: AI should augment human capabilities, not replace them.

    A New Approach to Artificial Intelligence

    The core tenet of Humans& is a human-centric approach to AI development. This means that the technology will be designed with a focus on enhancing human potential, creativity, and decision-making. The funding will be used to further develop this vision and bring it to fruition. This is a crucial distinction from the prevailing narrative that often focuses solely on automation and efficiency.

    The impressive seed round, which values the company at $4.48 billion, speaks volumes about the confidence investors have in this approach. It also highlights the growing recognition of the need for AI that aligns with human values and goals. The fact that the founding team hails from leading AI companies such as Anthropic, xAI, and Google adds significant weight to the project, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the table.

    Key Players and Their Vision

    While specific details about Humans&’s products and services remain limited, the company’s mission is clear: to build AI that serves humanity. The founders, with their combined experience, are well-positioned to achieve this goal. Their backgrounds suggest a deep understanding of the technical challenges and ethical considerations involved in AI development. The founders’ past experience at Anthropic, xAI, and Google underscores their commitment to innovation and their understanding of the current AI landscape.

    The Significance of the Seed Round

    The $480 million seed round is a significant investment, indicating strong investor confidence in Humans&’s potential. Seed rounds typically fund early-stage development, allowing startups to build their core technology, hire talent, and begin establishing their market presence. This substantial funding will enable Humans& to accelerate its research and development efforts, expand its team, and potentially launch its first products or services. The large valuation suggests that investors believe in the long-term viability and disruptive potential of a human-centric AI approach.

    The funding round also signals a broader trend in the tech industry. There’s a growing recognition that AI should be developed responsibly, considering its impact on society and individual well-being. Humans& is positioned to be a leader in this movement, demonstrating that ethical considerations and commercial success can go hand in hand. The company’s success could pave the way for other startups and established companies to adopt similar human-centric approaches.

    Looking Ahead

    The future of AI is being actively shaped by companies like Humans&. As the company moves forward, it will be interesting to see how its human-centric vision translates into tangible products and services. The startup’s progress will undoubtedly be closely watched by investors, industry analysts, and the broader public, all eager to see how AI can be harnessed to empower people and create a more positive future.

    The company’s focus on human empowerment, combined with the expertise of its founding team and the backing of significant funding, positions Humans& as a key player in the evolving AI landscape. Their success could redefine the relationship between humans and artificial intelligence.