Builder.ai Faces Insolvency

Builder.ai, a UK-based AI startup backed by Microsoft, has entered insolvency proceedings following financial instability and leadership changes. The company, which developed an AI-powered platform for building custom applications, faced challenges after restating sales figures and undergoing an audit. Once valued at over $1 billion, Builder.ai's main unit, Engineer.ai Corporation, will be managed by an appointed administrator.

The company's financial difficulties intensified after it overstated sales and faced significant debt problems. A lender seized $37 million after discovering revenue was significantly lower than claimed. Builder.ai owes substantial amounts to Amazon Web Services and Microsoft for cloud services. Alvarez & Marsal have been lined up to oversee the insolvency of Builder.ai's UK entities.

Administrators are assessing the company's technology and assets, seeking potential buyers or restructuring options. Microsoft, which had invested in Builder.ai and collaborated on integrating its technology with Azure and GitHub Copilot, has not commented on the situation. The insolvency follows a period of restructuring, including workforce reductions.