US-based AI startups continue to attract significant venture capital, with 49 companies securing funding rounds of $100 million or more in 2025. These mega-rounds signal strong investor confidence in the potential of AI platforms and category leaders as AI adoption accelerates. Several early-stage companies have closed multiple nine-figure rounds, securing compute resources, talent, and enterprise distribution.
Key areas of investment include foundation model labs, agentic platforms, data and training infrastructure, and vertical AI applications in healthcare, finance, and logistics. AI-native cybersecurity, robotics, autonomy, and chip design are also attracting substantial capital. The need for massive investment in GPUs, data, and compliance drives capital intensity in these sectors. This trend signifies a departure from previous venture cycles, with more repeat mega-rounds occurring earlier in company lifecycles.
