💸 Ex‑OpenAI CTO Mira Murati Raises $2B Seed for Thinking Machines Lab
By Gulam Sibtain | June 23, 2025
In one of the most jaw-dropping tech funding moments ever, **Mira Murati**, former CTO of OpenAI, has launched **Thinking Machines Lab** and raised a historic **$2 billion seed round** — giving the startup an eye-popping **$10 billion valuation**, despite being pre-plan and pre-product 1.
🔍 What's the Big Deal?
- Record-breaking seed round: Largest ever in history, far exceeding typical $200–450M mega-seeds 2.
- No product, no plan: Thinking Machines is secretive, with no disclosed product or roadmap — yet valued at $10B 3.
- Founder control: Murati reportedly holds more board votes than all investors combined 4.
📈 Why Investors Are Betting Big
- 🧠 **AGI Vision:** Investors believe new breakthroughs in general-purpose AI are within reach.
- ⭐ **Founder reputation:** Murati’s work at OpenAI (GPT, DALL‑E) attracts confidence.
- 💰 **90% of VC cash** in North America is going to AI ventures right now 5.
- 🔥 **AI frenzy:** 454 new AI startups launched this year — it's a funding gold rush 6.
⚠️ Broad Implications
This move reflects a significant shift in venture capital: **vibes and founder pedigree now often outweigh concrete products or proven plans**.
💡 For entrepreneurs: Even deep-tech startups can raise massive rounds — if there’s vision, influence, and strategic leadership.
✅ What You Can Learn
- Work on a **clear long-term AI vision**
- Build a **reputation through projects or roles**
- Secure early talent and advisors — they signal strength to investors
Tags:
Thinking Machines Lab
Mira Murati
AI Startup
AI Funding Trend
💬 What Do You Think?
Is this hype or the future of VC? Share your thoughts below!
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