

Bessemer's State of AI 2025 Report
12 snips Sep 10, 2025
Dive into the fascinating insights from Bessemer's State of AI 2025 Report! Discover the key differences between AI Supernovas and Shooting Stars, and why Vertical AI companies could outshine their horizontal counterparts. The discussion emphasizes the need for structured Proof of Concept programs in customer acquisition. Get ready for 2026 predictions: a new dominant browser interface, generative video breakthroughs, and the rise of an AI-native social media giant. Plus, learn about the crucial role of evaluations and data lineage in product development!
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Supernovas Versus Shooting Stars
- Bessemer defines two AI archetypes: supernovas (very fast, low gross margins) and shooting stars (fast, healthier margins).
- The report frames expectations for how quickly top AI startups can reach $100M ARR and the tradeoffs involved.
Fast Growth Often Means Negative Margins
- Supernovas pursue blitz-scaling and accept very low or negative gross margins due to high compute costs.
- They trade margin for rapid ARR growth and risk burning out quickly without sustainable unit economics.
Shooting Stars Resemble Traditional SaaS
- Shooting stars grow deliberately (Q2T3 pattern) with stronger gross margins around ~60% and much lower ARR per FTE.
- They resemble traditional high-growth SaaS with healthier unit economics than supernovas.