**Naveen Rao to Launch New Computer Venture After Leaving Databricks**
Naveen Rao, the head of artificial intelligence at Databricks Inc., a startup valued at $100 billion, is set to depart from his role to establish a new company focused on developing an innovative type of computer. This information comes from a source familiar with the situation. A representative from Databricks confirmed that Rao will transition to an advisory position within the company and noted that Databricks intends to invest in his upcoming startup, although the specifics of the investment were not disclosed.
Rao has reportedly initiated discussions with various investors regarding funding for his new venture, which aims to create a next-generation computer designed to mitigate the escalating costs associated with AI computing power. The source, who requested anonymity due to the private nature of the discussions, indicated that Rao has not publicly commented on his plans for the new enterprise.
A seasoned entrepreneur, Rao previously sold his data and AI analytics startup, MosaicML, to Databricks in 2023 for $1.3 billion. MosaicML had successfully raised approximately $30 million from notable investors, including Maverick Ventures, Lux Capital, and DCVC. Prior to that, Rao co-founded Nervana Systems, a machine intelligence platform that Intel Corp. acquired in 2016 for around $350 million. Given Rao’s impressive track record, his new venture is likely to attract considerable interest from investors, potentially leading to a high valuation.
Rao’s move aligns with a trend of prominent tech executives launching their own startups. This includes former OpenAI Chief Technology Officer Mira Murati, whose company, Thinking Machine Labs, was recently valued at $10 billion, and ex-Salesforce co-CEO Bret Taylor, whose AI startup, Sierra, has also reached a valuation of $10 billion within just two years.
In recent developments, Databricks secured $1 billion in a funding round, solidifying its position as one of the most valuable startups in the United States. This funding round was co-led by major investment firms, including Andreessen Horowitz, Insight Partners, MGX, Thrive Capital, and WCM Investment Management.
As Rao embarks on this new journey, the tech community will be watching closely to see how his innovative approach to computing unfolds.
**FAQ**
*What is Naveen Rao’s new venture about?*
Naveen Rao’s new venture will focus on creating a next-generation computer aimed at reducing the costs of AI computing power.
