TechCrunch Startup News Converge Bio raises $25M, backed by Bessemer and execs from Meta, OpenAI, Wiz
Jan 14, 2026
An AI drug discovery startup just secured $25 million in funding, backed by notable execs from Meta and OpenAI. This innovative company is revolutionizing R&D by training models on molecular data like DNA and proteins. They have integrated systems for antibody design and biomarker discovery, reflecting their rapid growth and customer traction. The discussion also covers how generative models can reduce validation risks and molecular errors, positioning the company at the forefront of the biotech frontier.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Generative Models Tailored To Molecular Data
- Converge Bio trains generative models on DNA, RNA and protein sequences to accelerate drug discovery.
- The platform plugs models into pharma workflows across stages from target ID to manufacturing.
Three Integrated Customer Systems
- Converge launched three customer-facing AI systems for antibody design, protein yield optimization, and biomarker/target discovery.
- Each system combines multiple models so customers get ready-to-use tools rather than stitching components themselves.
Pipeline Over Individual Models
- The antibody design system chains a generative model, predictive filters, and physics-based docking to produce viable candidates.
- Value comes from the integrated pipeline, not any single model component.