Startup Grind
VC Fund
San Francisco, United States
Startup Grind is a VC fund in San Francisco focused on Artificial Intelligence and SaaS. Startup Grind is the world’s largest community of startups, founders, innovators, and creators. We bring like-minded yet diverse individuals together to connect, learn, teach, help, build, and belong. We do this daily through our local events, flagship conferences, startup program, partnerships, and online media + content - collectively reachingover 3.5 million individuals worldwide.The company hosts monthly events in more than 600 cities and 125 countries featuring successful local founders, innovators, educators and investors who share personal stories and lessons learned on the road to building great companies. The company's monthly fireside chat interviews, startup mixers and annual conferences provide ample opportunities to connect with amazing startups and the people behind them, tap into a strong support network, form meaningful connections and gain inspiration for the startup journey ahead. Started by Derek Andersen and Spencer Nielsen in February 2010 in a small office in Mountain View California, the original goal to bring together friends who would help each other has spread across the world.
- Total investments:
- 14
- Last investment:
- Lead investor:
- 14%
Last updated:
For AI agents: llms.txt
Industries Startup Grind invests in
Artificial IntelligenceSaaSMachine LearningSoftwareEducation
Stages Startup Grind invests in
Series ASeedNon-equity AssistancePre-Seed
Countries Startup Grind invests in
Sri LankaUnited StatesIndiaSpainTurkey
Round sizes
Seed $80k–$1.6MSeries A $135k–$200kNon-Equity Assistance $5.9k–$50k
Contacts
| Name | Phone | Socials | |
|---|---|---|---|
Round size
- Seed
- $80k–$1.6M
- Series A
- $135k–$200k
- Non-Equity Assistance
- $5.9k–$50k
Investment Focus
Industry
- Artificial Intelligence 9 (64%)
- SaaS 7 (50%)
- Machine Learning 6 (43%)
- Software 5 (36%)
- Education 3 (21%)
Stage
- Series A 7 (50%)
- Seed 3 (21%)
- Non-equity Assistance 2 (14%)
- Pre-Seed 1 (7%)
Country
- Sri Lanka 7 (50%)
- United States 2 (14%)
- India 1 (7%)
- Spain 1 (7%)
- Turkey 1 (7%)
Team
| Name | Title | Investments | Links | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Kateryna Dehtyar
Director of Kiev Chapter
|
Director of Kiev Chapter | Total investments: 0 | Find email | |
Marian Gazdik
Director, Europe
|
Director, Europe | Total investments: 2 | Find email | |
Rui Ma
Director of BeiJing Chapter
|
Director of BeiJing Chapter | Total investments: 0 | Find email | |
Àlex Rodríguez Bacardit
Barcelona Chapter Director
|
Barcelona Chapter Director | Total investments: 2 | Find email | |
Can Kagitcibasi
Country Manager
|
Country Manager | Total investments: 0 | Find email | |
| See all 19 team members → | ||||
Investments
| Company | Description | Round | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
Seo AI
|
SEO.ai is a pioneering digital marketing company that harnesses the power of AI technology to revolutionize the SEO landscape. By combining machine learning with deep SEO expertise, we empower businesses of all sizes to enhance their online presence. Our platform provides real-time insights and effortless automation, ensuring smarter keywordstrategies and optimized content quality.Key features of our platform include:AI-Powered Analysis: Advanced algorithms optimize content for maximum SEO impact.Real-Time Insights: Instant feedback and practical suggestions for better performance.Competitor Analysis: Valuable insights into competitor strategies to stay ahead.Smart Optimization: Keyword and content structure suggestions to rank better automatically.Our mission is to make enterprise-level SEO tools accessible to businesses of all sizes, ensuring they can navigate the complex digital terrain effectively. Whether you're a small startup or a large enterprise, our tools are designed to help refine keyword strategies, improve content quality, and gain valuable insights into competitor strategies. This enables our clients to enhance their online visibility and performance, ultimately driving more traffic and conversions.At SEO.ai, we're committed to helping businesses succeed in the digital age by providing innovative, user-friendly solutions that meet the evolving needs of the online market. Our goal is to empower businesses to thrive in the rapidly changing digital landscape, ensuring they stay competitive and achieve their online goals. | $135K / Series A / Dec 18, 2024 | |
Classiq AI
|
ClassiQ AI is an innovative, AI-driven Learning Management System (LMS) platform designed to redefine the way organizations and educational institutions deliver training and learning experiences. By leveraging cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology, ClassiQ AI empowers educators, administrators, and learners through adaptive learningpaths, smart content, and real-time analytics, ensuring a transformative impact on education and training outcomes.1. AI-Powered Learning Management System (LMS)At the heart of ClassiQ AI lies its robust AI-powered LMS, which uses machine learning to personalize and optimize the learning experience.Adaptive Learning Paths: ClassiQ AI tailors content delivery to individual learners' needs by analyzing their progress, preferences, and engagement. This ensures that every learner receives the right material at the right time to enhance understanding and retention. Automated Assessments: AI generates custom quizzes, assignments, and exams, provides instant grading, and offers feedback to help learners identify areas for improvement. This streamlines the assessment process while fostering growth. Personalized Recommendations: The platform uses AI to suggest courses, resources, and activities that align with each learner’s goals and performance, maximizing their potential for success.2. AI-Driven Insights and Analytics DashboardClassiQ AI offers a sophisticated analytics dashboard powered by AI, providing actionable insights into learner behavior and course performance.Predictive Analytics: By forecasting trends such as completion rates and potential challenges, administrators can take proactive measures to support learners. Data-Driven Strategies: AI pinpoints the most effective content, enabling organizations to refine their offerings and strategies for better outcomes.3. Smart Content Development Tools ClassiQ AI simplifies course creation with intelligent tools that ensure content remains relevant and impactful.AI-Supported Content Generation: By analyzing objectives and learner profiles, the system suggests tailored materials, questions, and multimedia resources to enhance course quality. Automated Content Updates: AI monitors industry trends and updates course materials to provide learners with up-to-date, accurate information.4. Virtual AI TutorsClassiQ AI enhances learner support with AI-powered virtual tutors, ensuring assistance is always within reach.On-Demand Assistance: AI chatbots offer real-time guidance, answer questions, and provide clarifications, helping learners navigate challenges seamlessly. 24/7 Availability: These virtual tutors ensure continuous support, enabling a self-paced learning environment that adapts to learners' schedules.5. Automated Compliance and Certification TrackingClassiQ AI takes the complexity out of compliance training with its AI-powered tracking system.Real-Time Updates: The platform automatically updates compliance training modules to reflect the latest regulations and standards, ensuring organizational adherence. Streamlined Reporting: AI generates comprehensive compliance reports and highlights areas requiring attention, enabling efficient management of certifications and training completion.6. Enhanced Learner Engagement ToolsClassiQ AI keeps learners motivated and engaged through innovative AI-driven tools.Sentiment Analysis: AI evaluates learner feedback and interactions to measure engagement, allowing for timely content adjustments to maintain interest. Gamified Learning: Personalized gamification elements such as achievements, leaderboards, and challenges are tailored to learners' preferences, fostering an interactive and enjoyable experience.Transforming Education and TrainingWith its intelligent, AI-powered solutions, ClassiQ AI delivers an adaptive, personalized, and efficient learning experience that evolves to meet the demands of learners and organizations. Its innovative features enhance educational quality, streamline operations, and foster learner success, making ClassiQ AI a trusted partner for educational transformation. | $175K / Series A / Sep 12, 2024 | |
SteanWeb
|
SteanWeb is an innovative FinTech platform that integrates AI-powered customer relationship management (CRM) with advanced accounting tools, redefining how businesses manage operations. With SteanWeb, businesses can streamline workflows, automate invoicing, and access real-time financial insights, all from one powerful platform.Key Features:Integrated CRM & Accounting: Manage finances and customer relationships in one place. SteanWeb combines CRM tools with accounting features, enabling businesses to track sales, automate invoicing, and generate detailed financial reports—all from a single dashboard.Automated Invoicing & Payment Tracking: Simplify billing by automatically generating and sending invoices based on sales activity, contracts, or projects. Real-time payment tracking ensures businesses stay on top of receivables, minimizing overdue payments and administrative hassles.Real-Time AI-Based Predictions & Reports: Access up-to-date financial data with interactive reports on revenue, expenses, cash flow, and profits. SteanWeb’s powerful analytics deliver actionable insights for smarter, data-driven decision-making.With flexible pricing tailored to freelancers, small businesses, and enterprises, SteanWeb empowers organizations to save time, reduce errors, and drive smarter growth. Based in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, SteanWeb is at the forefront of FinTech innovation, helping businesses unlock their full potential. | $200K / Series A / Jul 08, 2024 | |
Cling Digital Solutions
|
Cling Digital Solutions is an innovative CRM provider leveraging the power of AI and ML technologies to redefine customer relationship management. Our platform enhances customer engagement by offering intelligent insights, sales automation, and personalized customer interactions. With features like lead scoring, workflow optimization, and real-timedata analysis, Cling Digital helps businesses streamline operations, boost efficiency, and drive sustainable growth. By integrating advanced AI capabilities, such as predictive analytics and natural language processing, Cling Digital enables organizations to anticipate customer needs, improve retention, and optimize sales strategies, ensuring a competitive edge in today's dynamic market.Here’s a detailed breakdown of the AI and ML technologies used in each product offered by Cling Digital Solutions:1) AI-Powered CRM:Intelligent Lead Scoring: Uses machine learning algorithms to assess customer data, CRM history, and market trends to prioritize high-value leads.Predictive Analytics: Anticipates customer behaviors like churn rates, repurchase probabilities, and sales opportunities based on historical and real-time data.Personalization at Scale: AI analyzes customer tendencies, past interactions, and preferences to deliver tailored recommendations, product suggestions, and marketing content.2) Sales Automation:Workflow Optimization: Automates repetitive sales tasks like data entry and follow-up scheduling using AI, freeing up time for sales representatives to focus on customer engagement.Chatbots and Virtual Assistants: Utilize natural language processing (NLP) to handle inquiries, ticketing, and customer complaints, forwarding complex issues to human agents when necessary.3) Customer Engagement Insights:Behavioral Analysis: Machine learning analyzes customer purchase patterns, motivations, and feedback to refine engagement strategies and improve conversion ratesReal-Time Data Processing: AI extracts actionable insights from large datasets to provide businesses with up-to-date customer trends and needs4) Customer Retention and Loyalty Management:Anticipatory Solutions: Predictive models identify potential churn and enable preemptive actions, such as offering discounts or targeted support to retain customers.Lifetime Value Maximization: AI optimizes customer interaction strategies to enhance satisfaction and loyalty, thereby increasing lifetime value.5) Smart Recommendations:Dynamic Product Suggestions: Recommends products and services based on a customer's purchase history and behaviour. AI algorithms continuously learn and adapt these recommendations over time.Cross-Selling and Upselling: Identifies opportunities for relevant add-ons or upgrades through predictive modeling.6) Customer Data Management:Error Reduction in Data Entry: Automates input and validation processes to eliminate manual errors using AI tools.Advanced Reporting: AI-driven analytics provide comprehensive dashboards and reports, making complex datasets easier to interpret for strategic decision-making. | $151K / Series A / Jun 24, 2024 | |
Hyperkinky Technologies
|
Hyperkinky Technologies is a cutting-edge game development solutions provider that leverages advanced AI technologies to transform gaming experiences. By utilizing state-of-the-art language models and tools like Audio2Face, we create groundbreaking solutions that enhance NPC interactions and elevate story-driven gameplay. Our mission is to push theboundaries of realism and interactivity in games, empowering developers to craft immersive worlds and compelling narratives. Through our innovative AI-based tools, we aim to redefine how games are created and experienced, setting new standards for interactive entertainment. | $179K / Series A / Jun 21, 2024 | |
leanspots
|
StartUps Ecosystem Software Leanspots is a hybrid Fintech & Marketplace model. Holistic platform model with proprietary tools for StartUps, Investors, Advisors, Universities and Accelerators. Leanspots bases its solutions on technologies such as AI, NLP and Big data. | Non-equity Assistance / Apr 29, 2024 | |
Face Insights AI
|
Face Insights AI is a tech startup revolutionizing real-time face analysis with advanced AI and computer vision technology. We offer innovative solutions for user verification, emotion recognition, age and gender estimation, and mask detection, all designed to work seamlessly in various lighting conditions. Our software is built forquick,single-frame detection and easily integrates with ATS and HRMS platforms. Prioritizing security and data management, we adhere to the highest data protection standards. Homem Digital is here to elevate your business with reliable and efficient face analysis technology.What We Offer:User Verification: Seamlessly authenticate users with state-of-the-art facial recognition technology. Emotion Recognition: Gain powerful insights into your users’ emotions, enhancing engagement and personalization. Age & Gender Estimation: Make data-driven decisions with accurate age and gender predictions, optimizing customer interactions. Mask Detection: Ensure safety and compliance with our efficient mask detection solutions, even in dynamic environments.Why Choose Face Insights AI?Lightning-Fast, Single-Frame Detection: Experience ultra-fast results without compromising accuracy—ideal for real-time applications. Seamless Integration: Easily integrate our technology into your existing ATS and HRMS systems, driving smooth workflows. Data Security at Its Core: We take data protection seriously—adhering to the highest standards to keep your user information safe and secure.At Face Insights AI, we are transforming industries by offering AI solutions that are not just smart, but also intuitive and user-friendly. Whether you're in HR, retail, or security, our innovative face analysis technology empowers your business to unlock new possibilities while maintaining the highest standards of privacy and security. | $164K / Series A / Mar 21, 2024 | |
iChat Pro Solutions
|
iChat Pro Solutions is an innovative CRM provider that leverages advanced AI and machine learning (ML) technologies to transform how businesses manage customer relationships and streamline operations. Designed to help organizations enhance customer engagement and operational efficiency, iChat Pro integrates powerful AI-driven analytics andpredictive tools directly into the CRM. This approach enables businesses to gain actionable insights, automate routine tasks, and provide personalized customer experiences at scale. From lead scoring and customer segmentation to proactive service management, iChat Pro’s AI and ML capabilities make it a robust solution for companies seeking to stay ahead in a competitive market. | $143K / Series A / Jan 19, 2024 | |
Shopping Smart
|
A user-friendly online store with a large selection of products in areas including electronics, clothing, furniture, car parts, and cosmetics is ShoppingSmartInfo.com. The online store often changes its assortment of reduced prices, providing special offers like offers high-end electronics and up to high-level off chic furniture. With theassistance of special sections like "Featured Products" and "Best Selling Products," customers can quickly find popular things. In addition, new customers can take benefit of additional savings by joining to newsletters, and free shipping is offered on orders . For more details, visit ShoppingSmartInfo.com. | $80K / Seed / Nov 12, 2023 | |
Sapps App
|
Sapps App is an innovative, AI-powered Learning Management System designed to transform education for institutions and individual learners alike. Powered by advanced artificial intelligence, our platform delivers:1) Personalized Learning Paths – Intelligent algorithms dynamically tailor course sequences based on learner performance, pace, andgoals, ensuring each student receives the most relevant and engaging content.2) Smart Analytics & Real-Time Insights – Educators and administrators gain actionable, data-driven insights into learner progress, completion rates, and performance trends to drive continuous improvement.3) Seamless Tool & Content Integration – Easily integrate with hundreds of educational tools and content providers, streamlining workflows and elevating the learning experience.4) AI Tutor “Sapient” – A virtual tutor powered by Nvidia Riva offers 24/7 instant support, adaptive explanations, and multilingual assistance, helping learners every step of the way. 5) Scalable Plans for All – From individual learners to enterprise-level clients, our tiered subscriptions offer everything from intelligent course curation and certificates to custom team pathways, integration support, and a dedicated account manager.Trusted by over 200 institutions, Sapps App empowers users to complete courses up to 70% faster, delivering smarter, data-backed educational outcomes | $90K / Seed / May 21, 2023 | |
| See all 14 investments → | |||
Co-Investors
Founder Institute
2 deals together
Nvidia Inception
2 deals together
AngelHack
1 deal together
Freesearch Ventures
1 deal together
New York Ventures
1 deal together
Outlier Ventures
1 deal together
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FAQ
What does Startup Grind invest in?
Startup Grind invests primarily in Artificial Intelligence, SaaS and Machine Learning startups, most often at Series A and Seed stage. Most of the 14 investments tracked by Shizune back companies in Sri Lanka. The Investment Focus section breaks down every industry, stage and country in the portfolio.
What is Startup Grind's check size?
Startup Grind typically joins rounds of $80k–$1.6M at Seed, $135k–$200k at Series A and $5.9k–$50k at Non-Equity Assistance. These ranges are 10th–90th percentile round sizes calculated from confirmed public funding rounds, so they are a realistic guide to the rounds Startup Grind participates in.
How do I contact Startup Grind?
Public channels for Startup Grind include LinkedIn, X (Twitter) and the website linked on this profile. For a verified work email and phone number, create a free Shizune account — contact data is searched across 20+ sources and validated before delivery, so your outreach lands in the right inbox.
Who are the partners at Startup Grind?
The team at Startup Grind includes Kateryna Dehtyar (Director of Kiev Chapter), Marian Gazdik (Director, Europe) and Rui Ma (Director of BeiJing Chapter), among 19 team members tracked by Shizune. The Team section lists each member with their title, investment count and links.
Is Shizune's investor data accurate?
Yes — every stat on this profile is calculated from confirmed public funding rounds monitored across hundreds of sources since 2020. This profile was last refreshed in Aug 2026 and is updated monthly. Spotted something off? Use the “Suggest an edit” link near the top of the page.
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