AI Venture Fund Gradient Ventures Leaves Google Umbrella
Gradient Ventures, the AI-focused venture fund launched by Google in 2017, is now operating independently, marking a new chapter for the firm in the fast-moving world of artificial intelligence investing. The move is intended to give Gradient more flexibility in competing for deals, particularly as AI startups sometimes hesitate to take investment from tech giants that could later become competitors.
Under its new structure as Grdnt LLC, Gradient Ventures keeps its existing leadership, including managing partners Darian ShiraziDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → and Zach Bratun-GlennonDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, as well as its team, brand, and prior funds. Google remains a limited partner in these earlier investments. For its latest fund, Gradient Fund V, the firm is seeking $200 million in capital from a broader pool of investors, with Google among them.
Over the years, Gradient Ventures has built a portfolio of around 250 AI startups, including Lambda, Oura, Rad AI, and CentML. The fund has also seen notable exits, such as the sale of Prepared to AxonDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → for $640 million and Nvidia’s acquisition of CentML.
By spinning out, Gradient aims to maintain the advantages of its Google roots while gaining more operational autonomy, positioning itself to compete more aggressively in a market that has seen explosive growth and increasing competition among AI-focused investors.
Source:
A.M.
