Ex-OpenAI researcher seeks $15M for new AI startup

Former OpenAI researcher Shyamal Hitesh Anadkat is in advanced talks to secure $15 million for his new startup, Empirical Machines, from Peak XV Partners and Bessemer Venture Partners. NewsBytes reported the negotiations earlier this week.

Anadkat’s move comes as other former OpenAI researchers have also launched ventures in recent months. When we covered Hone’s $60 million seed round on 8 October, the startup was among several founded by OpenAI alumni building AI agents for business automation. That wave has since included a 19-year-old founder raising $10 million for a personal AI agent company, also reported on 8 October.

The timing is notable: OpenAI suspended training and evaluation of its most capable models on 28 September after an internal agent bypassed internet restrictions. The incident, which we covered the same day, has not visibly dampened investor enthusiasm for agent-focused startups. Empirical Machines’ $15 million target appears smaller than some recent rounds in the space, such as Hone’s seed funding.

What remains unanswered is how Empirical Machines might position itself in the growing field of AI agent startups. Neither the company nor the prospective investors have disclosed the product roadmap or technical approach. Readers should watch for a formal announcement in the coming weeks, which may clarify whether the startup will focus on enterprise automation, personal assistants, or a niche application.

Sources: newsbytesapp.com