San Francisco-based AI startup WisprFlow has successfully raised over $81 million in funding, achieving this milestone without ever formally pitching to investors. The announcement, made by CEO Tanay Kothari, revealed that the startup had recently secured an additional $25 million led by Notable Capital, with participation from entrepreneur Steven Bartlett’s Flight Fund.
Kothari shared this news via a social media post, explaining that each funding round followed a consistent pattern: WisprFlow focused its efforts on product development while investors approached the company unsolicited, expressing interest in leading future financing rounds. “We weren’t even raising,” Kothari remarked on X. “We were heads down building. Then a VC shows up at our office.”
Notable Capital’s Hans Tung, Ali Partovi from NEO, and Matt Kranning of Menlo Ventures were among the early investors who proactively offered to lead funding rounds based on their belief in WisprFlow’s vision, even before the startup had established key performance metrics or formally entered fundraising mode.
Kothari contrasted these “pre-emptive investors” with what he termed “social-proof-driven” investors, who typically wait for momentum and consensus before investing. He emphasized that pre-emptive investors rely on their independent conviction and long-term vision rather than immediate metrics. “They show up early, pay premium prices, and bet on vision over metrics,” he stated.
Such early backing is especially valuable during challenging times, according to Kothari. He noted that investors who commit before a company has proven its market traction are less likely to panic when turbulence arises, as they have already bought into the company’s mission. “The best investors don’t follow rounds. They create them,” he concluded.
Founded in 2021 by Kothari and Sahaj Garg, WisprFlow focuses on developing advanced AI-powered voice dictation software. The technology aims to enhance user interaction with digital platforms by converting spoken words into clear, formatted text across various applications on Mac, Windows, and iPhone.
As the company continues to grow amidst the evolving landscape of AI technology, WisprFlow’s approach to funding could signal a shift in how investors engage with startups. By valuing vision and innovative potential over immediate financial returns, WisprFlow may pave the way for other emerging companies in the tech space.
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