Latest Startups & Entrepreneurship News
2026: Historic Year of Mega-IPOs for SpaceX, OpenAI, and Anthropic
SpaceX, OpenAI, and Anthropic are eyeing public debuts in 2026 with a combined valuation near $3 trillion, marking a shift to AI and space tech mainstream. SpaceX targets $1.5 trillion valuation, OpenAI transitions to Public Benefit Corporation for AGI mission, and Anthropic positions as safety-first AI alternative.
These IPOs could create the largest liquidity event in NYSE and Nasdaq history.
AI Startups Raised Record $150B in 2025, Led by OpenAI and Anthropic
Silicon Valley AI startups shattered records with $150 billion raised in 2025, up from $92 billion in 2021, focusing on infrastructure and talent. Major recipients include OpenAI, Anthropic, Project Prometheus, and Databricks, building 'fortress balance sheets' against downturns.
Big Tech plans $500B+ AI infrastructure spend in 2026 amid hype for AI agents.
SoftBank Completes $40B Investment in OpenAI, Secures 11% Stake
SoftBank finalized a massive $40 billion investment in OpenAI on January 1, 2026, acquiring an 11% ownership stake in the AI leader. This infusion bolsters OpenAI's position ahead of its anticipated 2026 IPO.
Lovable Raises $330M Series A to Pioneer 'Software as a System' Era
Stockholm-based AI firm Lovable secured $330 million in Series A funding led by CapitalG on January 1, 2026, signaling the end of traditional SaaS. The company plans a 'Founder-Led' hiring push for 2026, targeting ex-founders as AI architects.
Investors see it as a shift in digital infrastructure conception.
Moonshot AI Secures $500M Series C at $4.3B Valuation
Chinese startup Moonshot AI raised $500 million in Series C funding led by IDG Capital ($150M), with Alibaba, Tencent participating, hitting $4.3B post-money valuation. The oversubscribed round accelerates 2026 AI infrastructure investments.
It underscores investor confidence in China's AI growth.
Seoul Business Agency Hosts Global Innovation Forum at CES 2026
Seoul Business Agency is bridging Korean startups to global markets via the Global Innovation Forum at CES 2026, offering pitch sessions and investor meetings. Focus sectors include AI, biotech, clean energy, and content tech for enhanced visibility.
It addresses Korean startups' past struggles against Silicon Valley giants.
Global Innovation Forum at CES 2026 Expands to Eight Countries
The GIF at CES 2026 features startups from eight countries including Switzerland, Israel, Canada, Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea in pitching competitions. Upgrades include VC judges for direct investment and structured networking for partnerships.
It redefines cross-border startup collaboration beyond exhibitions.
January 2026 Grant Roundup: Over $3M in Funding Opportunities
Transform The Hustle lists vetted grants like Weekly Skip Grants ($1,000 weekly), Visible Hands Fellowship ($10K), and Amex Shop Small ($20K). Others include NYFA Artist Fellowship ($8K) and Staten Island Arts Grants ($750-$5K).
Tips emphasize tailoring applications for success.
University Venture Funds Launch and Accelerate in 2025-2026
New funds include Royal College of Art's InnovationRCA backing 90+ ventures, HKUST's successor to Redbird Fund, and UPenn's $10M StartUP Fund for faculty startups. Others target deep tech like quantum, AI from University of Chicago and Sydney.
They fill early-stage investment gaps for spinouts.
Mobile-First Startups Dominate Seed and Early Funding in 2026
Funding data for the last 12 months to January 2026 shows seed and early rounds leading the landscape for top mobile-first startups. This trend highlights investor focus on nascent mobile innovations.
AI Hype Drives Top Global Companies to $3T+ Valuations
Nine of the top 10 most valuable firms are AI-riding tech giants like Nvidia, Microsoft, Alphabet over $3 trillion each. 2026 promises wider AI agent adoption despite risks if hype underdelivers.
Productivity gains impact early jobs, sparking pushback.