TLDR:
- Zendesk has launched a corporate venture capital unit called Zendesk Ventures.
- They will invest in artificial intelligence startups focused on customer service.
Customer service software provider Zendesk has launched a corporate venture capital unit called Zendesk Ventures that will invest in artificial intelligence startups. The fund will target startups developing AI technology that can be used with its customer service platform. Zendesk Ventures will invest globally, providing $500,000 to $1 million per deal, mostly at seed stage. The unit has already added investments in startups like Zuper, Observe.AI, PolyAI, and UnitQ, focusing on AI-powered products that can be featured on the Zendesk Marketplace. CEO Tom Eggemeier mentioned that the fund will be financed by tens of millions of dollars from the company’s balance sheet. This initiative aims to support an ecosystem of startups aligned with Zendesk’s vision, as the company believes every organization is moving towards becoming AI-driven. By investing in these startups, Zendesk not only drives their growth but also enhances its customers’ ability to provide exceptional interactions.
