Former OpenAI CTO Mira Murati has launched Thinking Machines Lab, securing an astonishing $2 billion in seed funding—and valuing the startup at $10 billion—despite not yet releasing public products. The company is led by ex-OpenAI researchers and underlines how VC continues to bet heavily on top AI talent
☀️ India Announces ₹2.3 Crore Startup Challenge for Rooftop Solar
The Government of India has kicked off a ₹2.3 crore (~$280 K) challenge to support startups innovating in rooftop and distributed solar technology. Prizes include ₹1 crore for first place, with applications due by August and winners announced in September .
⚖️ UK’s CaseCraft AI Scores $742K to Automate Small Claims
UK-based CaseCraft AI has raised $742K to streamline small claims processes via artificial intelligence, aiming to make legal support more affordable and accessible within the UK legal system .
🌐 VCs Eye New Consumer Tech: AI‑Powered Dating & Niche Social Apps
Investors are shifting focus from big platforms toward niche, personalized apps for Gen Z and Gen Alpha—especially AI-driven dating and social tools—as mainstream platforms stagnate .
💼 VCs Forecast Big Moves in 2025: IPOs, AI M&A & Robo‑Automation
Summary: A rebound is expected in tech IPOs and M&A activity this year, with AI poised to receive 45% of all VC funds. Robotics, automation, cloud, supply-chain and data regulation will be key investment areas .
🇮🇳 Bengaluru Climbs to #14 in Global Startup Ecosystems
Bengaluru has surged to 14th place in the Startup Genome’s Global Ecosystem rankings, thanks to a 26% uptick in seed funding in 2024 and major exits like Swiggy and GoDigit—all powering India’s strong FinTech and AI scene .
⚙️ Hard Tech Revival: Drones, Robotaxis & Solar‑Powered AI
A surge in “hard tech” innovations is underway—from AI-powered drones and robotaxis to solar infrastructure—backed by high-profile figures like Elon Musk and Andreessen Horowitz, signaling renewed investor confidence in hardware-led transformation .
