TechCrunch Startup News
Listen to select TechCrunch articles on startups coverage—who's raising, who's exiting, who's changing the world.
Latest episodes
May 1, 2025 • 2min
Grouphug is a stealth-mode startup that plans use AI inside WhatsApp groups
A new app is shaking up WhatsApp by transforming group chats into memes using generative AI. The seasoned founders behind this innovative tool share insights on blending humor with technology. Their approach explores the nuances of AI-driven conversations, aiming to enhance private communication while keeping things entertaining. Tune in to discover how playful tech could redefine your group chat experience!
4 snips
May 1, 2025 • 6min
Near Space Labs nabs $20M to take its high-res imaging Swift robots into the stratosphere
When it comes to creating images of the earth from above, satellites, drones and planes are the air and spacecraft that tend to come to mind. But a startup called Near Space Labs is taking a very different approach to high-resolution photos from up high. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Apr 30, 2025 • 4min
Hoofprint Biome boosts cow nutrition while slashing methane burps
A groundbreaking startup is tackling methane emissions from cows by modifying their microbiomes with innovative enzymes. This approach not only reduces greenhouse gases but also improves nutrient availability for the animals. The co-founders discuss the significance of this solution for farmers and highlight new funding aimed at on-farm testing. It's an exciting venture that blends agriculture with environmental science!
Apr 30, 2025 • 8min
From coding tests to billion-dollar startups, Ali Partovi’s eight-year experiment is paying off
Ali Partovi, an Iranian-born Harvard graduate and co-founder of Code.org, shares his journey as a low-profile yet influential figure in tech. He discusses his unique venture firm NIO, which goes beyond traditional metrics by mentoring exceptional college students. Partovi highlights the success stories of startups that emerged from this innovative approach, demonstrating how nurturing talent can reshape the tech landscape. Dive into the insights and strategies that are setting tomorrow's tech pioneers on the path to success!
Apr 29, 2025 • 4min
RepAir Carbon is making carbon removal machines inspired by batteries
RepAir is transforming carbon removal with groundbreaking technology inspired by batteries. They recently secured a $15 million extension to their Series A funding. By innovating direct air capture methods, they aim to make carbon capture more cost-effective for smaller businesses. The discussion highlights how these advancements enhance efficiency in reducing CO2 emissions, paving the way for a greener future.
Apr 29, 2025 • 8min
Bezos-backed Slate Auto debuts analog EV pickup truck that is decidedly anti-Tesla
A new American electric vehicle startup called Slate Auto has made its debut, and it’s about as anti-Tesla as it gets. It’s affordable, deeply customizable, and very analog. It has manual windows and it doesn’t come with a main infotainment screen. Heck, it isn’t even painted. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Apr 28, 2025 • 4min
Datadog acquires AI-powered observability startup Metaplane
Cloud monitoring and security platform Datadog on Wednesday announced that it has acquired Metaplane, an AI-powered data observability startup, for an undisclosed amount. In a press release, Datadog said that the deal “accelerates” its expansion into data observability, building on the launch of related products. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Apr 28, 2025 • 4min
Ex-Meta engineer raises $14M for Lace AI, a revenue generation software startup
Boris Valkov, an ex-engineer from Meta, shares his leap into entrepreneurship with Lace AI, a startup dedicated to enhancing customer service through artificial intelligence. He reflects on his experiences growing up in a family grocery business and his insights from studying over 100 companies. The discussion reveals how Lace AI's innovative software aims to boost call conversion rates in the home services sector, backed by significant funding. Exciting growth and workforce expansion are on the horizon!
Apr 25, 2025 • 6min
British startup Isembard lands $9M to reshore manufacturing for critical industries
Geopolitical pressures are accelerating a demand in many countries and regions to reshore — that is, to redevelop critical industry infrastructure, and to bring back businesses, which had moved or outsourced some or all of their industrial operations to cheaper countries further away. But that is easier said than done. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Apr 25, 2025 • 4min
Endor Labs, which builds tools to scan AI-generated code for vulnerabilities, lands $93M
A growing concern in the tech world is the security risks posed by AI-generated code. Surveys reveal that over half of organizations frequently face issues with this type of code. The spotlight is on a startup that recently secured $93 million to tackle these vulnerabilities. With enhanced tools for real-time scanning and risk identification, they aim to help developers navigate the challenges of AI-driven software creation.
