AI chip maker SambaNova has secured $1 billion in funding at an $11 billion valuation, marking its second mega-round in five months.
The funding round demonstrates continued investor confidence in SambaNova despite recent industry consolidation pressures. The valuation represents significant growth for the chip designer, which competes in the crowded AI infrastructure market alongside established players like Nvidia.
The raise comes months after Intel was reported to be pursuing an acquisition of SambaNova for approximately $1.6 billion—a figure now dwarfed by the company's current $11 billion valuation. SambaNova's back-to-back funding rounds suggest strong demand for its AI chip technology and software platform.
The company designs specialized processors optimized for AI workloads, targeting enterprises seeking alternatives to Nvidia's dominant GPU offerings. SambaNova's rapid fundraising pace indicates investors view the AI chip sector as a high-priority growth area, despite economic headwinds affecting other tech segments.
Hadrius, an NYC-based fintech startup, secured $22 million in Series A funding led by CRV with backing from Y Combinator. The company provides AI-native compliance software for financial services firms.
InstaLILY, an enterprise automation startup, has raised $60 million in Series B funding led by Energize Capital, bringing its total funding to nearly $100 million.
Adapter, an infrastructure platform enabling AI agents and applications to leverage and control data, has emerged from stealth with $17.8 million in funding led by GV.
Chinese AI developer DeepSeek is raising approximately $1.5 billion at a $71 billion valuation and planning to go public in 2027, according to reports.