Naveen Rao, formerly the head of AI at Databricks, is in talks to raise $1 billion for his new AI hardware startup, Unconventional, targeting a $5 billion valuation with a16z expected to lead the round [techcrunch.com#1][techmeme.com#1][google.com#1][techinasia.com#1]. The company plans to build custom silicon chips and server infrastructure for AI, positioning itself as a challenger to Nvidia [techinasia.com#1][techcrunch.com#1].
Highlights:
- Funding target: Unconventional is seeking $1 billion at a $5 billion valuation, with a16z set to lead the raise [techcrunch.com#1][techmeme.com#1][google.com#1][techinasia.com#1].
- Founder background: Founder Naveen Rao previously served as Databricks’ head of artificial intelligence [techcrunch.com#1][techmeme.com#1].
- Hardware focus: The startup plans to design custom AI silicon and server infrastructure tailored for AI workloads [techinasia.com#1].
- Competitive aim: The venture intends to rival Nvidia in AI hardware capabilities, according to the reports [techinasia.com#1][techcrunch.com#1].
- Deal status: Talks are ongoing and details come from sources rather than a formal announcement [techcrunch.com#1].
Sources:
- Sources: former Databricks VP of AI Naveen Rao is in talks to raise $1B led by a16z at a $5B valuation for his new AI hardware startup Unconventional (Marina Temkin/TechCrunch) – techmeme.com
- Sources: Naveen Rao’s new AI hardware startup targets $5B valuation with backing from a16z – TechCrunch – google.com
- Ex-Databricks AI head’s startup seeks $5b valuation with a16z – techinasia.com
- Sources: Naveen Rao’s new AI hardware startup targets $5B valuation with backing from a16z – techcrunch.com
