Mira Murati's AI Startup Aims for Record-Breaking $2B Seed Funding

Mira Murati, the former Chief Technology Officer of OpenAI, is making headlines with her new venture, Thinking Machines Lab. The startup is reportedly seeking to raise an unprecedented $2 billion in seed funding, potentially setting a new record for the largest seed round in history 

A Bold Vision for AI

Thinking Machines Lab has emerged from stealth mode with ambitious goals. The company aims to develop AI systems that are more customizable, accessible, and capable than current offerings. Despite not having a product or revenue yet, the startup has attracted significant investor interest, largely due to Murati's reputation and the elite team she has assembled.

A Team of AI Veterans

Murati has brought together a group of renowned AI researchers, many of whom previously worked at OpenAI. Notable team members include:

Bob McGrew : Former Chief Research Officer at OpenAI.

Alec Radford : Co-creator of several transformative AI models.

John Schulman : Co-led the development of ChatGPT.

Barret Zoph : Former VP of Research at OpenAI

Jonathan Lachman : Former Head of Special Projects at OpenAI

Alexander Kirillov : Worked on ChatGPT voice mode 

This assembly of talent underscores the startup's commitment to advancing AI technology 

Investor Enthusiasm

The decision to double the initial funding target from $1 billion to $2 billion reflects the intense investor enthusiasm surrounding the project. The startup's valuation is expected to be at least $10 billion, although details remain fluid. The substantial funding aims to cover the high costs associated with training advanced AI models and securing top-tier talent.

Murati Legacy and Future Plans

Murati's departure from OpenAI in September 2024 marked the end of a significant chapter in her career. During her six and a half years at the company, she played a pivotal role in developing ChatGPT and other AI initiatives. She briefly served as interim CEO in November 2023, following the board's temporary removal of Sam Altman

With Thinking Machines Lab, Murati continues to influence the AI landscape. The startup's focus on creating more adaptable and user-friendly AI systems positions it as a potential leader in the next wave of AI innovation