TLDR:
- Zendesk launches a venture fund to invest in AI startups focused on improving customer and employee experiences.
- New investments in PolyAI and unitQ aim to support AI-powered CX and operational efficiency.
Zendesk Launches Venture Fund to Invest into AI Startups
Zendesk has officially launched its global venture fund, Zendesk Ventures, to support AI-first companies dedicated to enhancing customer and employee experiences. The fund aims to empower emerging companies by providing capital, expertise in customer experience (CX) and AI, and strategic partnership opportunities for growth and innovation.
Ben Barclay, SVP of Strategy, Corporate Development, & Transformation at Zendesk, stated that the goal of the fund goes beyond building products to also support startups aligned with their vision. By investing in AI-driven companies, Zendesk aims to elevate their customers’ ability to provide exceptional interactions in the rapidly changing landscape of customer and employee service.
The portfolio of Zendesk Ventures already includes Observe.AI and Zuper, and with the recent investments in PolyAI and unitQ, the focus is on AI-powered CX and operational efficiency. PolyAI offers voice-focused solutions for handling complex interactions naturally, while unitQ provides a product quality platform powered by AI for businesses to enhance customer interactions and improve Net Promoter Scores.
Besides financial backing, Zendesk Ventures offers access to CX and AI experts, strategic partnerships, and the opportunity for startups to be featured on the Zendesk Marketplace, further promoting growth and innovation in the AI startup ecosystem.
Overall, Zendesk’s initiative aims to support the AI-driven transformation in organizations and contribute to the advancement of customer and employee service through innovative technologies.
