SSI Raises $1 Billion to Develop Superintelligence

Safe Superintelligence (SSI), co-founded by former OpenAI chief scientist Ilya Sutskever, has secured $1 billion to develop safe AI systems. SSI, currently with 10 employees, plans to use the funds for computing power and hiring top talent. Investors include Andreessen Horowitz, Sequoia Capital, and DST Global.

Safe Superintelligence (SSI), an AI company co-founded by former OpenAI chief scientist Ilya Sutskever, announced it has raised $1 billion to create safe artificial intelligence systems. The company, currently employing 10 individuals, plans to use the funds to enhance computing power and recruit leading talent.

Significant backers such as Andreessen Horowitz, Sequoia Capital, DST Global, and SV Angel have contributed to the funding, which underscores investor willingness to finance outstanding AI talent despite a broader decline in venture interest. NFDG, an investment partnership run by Nat Friedman and SSI's CEO Daniel Gross, also participated in the round.

SSI aims to focus on foundational AI research with a team based in Palo Alto, California, and Tel Aviv, Israel. Emphasizing AI safety, CEO Daniel Gross highlighted the importance of R&D and building ethical AI systems before market deployment. The company has a for-profit structure, differentiating itself from OpenAI's model.

(With inputs from agencies.)