Merantix and Softbank work together

The two companies have announced a strategic partnership to promote AI technology in the German ecosystem.

Merantix, which sees itself as the world's first venture studio for artificial intelligence, and Softbank Investment Advisers (Sbia) have entered into a strategic partnership. In the future, they want to work together on AI research and talent and ecosystem development, among other things. In addition, Softbank's Vision Fund 2 will invest an undisclosed amount in the Merantix Venture Fund. Softbank apparently wants to expand its own portfolio with AI companies in the long term.

Merantix has set itself the task of developing business models based on AI research. Since its launch in 2016, the venture studio has founded seven AI companies, including Vara, Kausa and Siasearch. Up to ten more companies are set to follow in the coming years, according to Merantix. The team wants to build a European ecosystem for AI, has set up a fund worth 25 million euros and opened a 5,400 square meter campus in Berlin in April of this year.

"AI will have a huge impact on our lives, just like software and electricity did before it," says Adrian Locher, founder and CEO of Merantix. "To get the most out of this technology, we need to build a strong ecosystem and connect key players and stakeholders. The partnership with Sbia brings us together with one of the most important global investors in the field of AI."