IBM Buys AI Startup Seek and Launches New York AI Accelerator

IBM announced on Monday the acquisition of Seek AI, a platform enabling users to query enterprise data using natural language. The purchase price was not publicly disclosed.

According to Seek's CEO and founder, Sarah Nagy, the startup's technology will become a core component of Watsonx AI Labs. IBM also announced this new New York City-based AI accelerator today.

Nagy stated in a LinkedIn post, "We will scale our platform, implement mission-critical solutions for IBM's clients, empower the next wave of AI developers, and significantly expand our team."

IBM's move to acquire Seek aligns with its strategy to increase investments in artificial intelligence, especially enterprise-grade AI. This strategic focus has proven successful for IBM; the company's first-quarter earnings surpassed expectations, largely driven by software growth and robust demand for AI solutions.

Seek, headquartered in NYC and founded by Nagy in 2021, provides a suite of tools designed to help companies utilize their data more effectively. Its software features a chatbot-like interface, automatically converting natural language inquiries into database queries and performing advanced data analysis and summarization.

Before the acquisition, Seek AI successfully raised approximately $10 million from venture capital firms, including Battery Ventures, Conviction Partners, and NJP Ventures. Upon deal closure, the startup will relocate its headquarters to One Madison, the building that also houses Watsonx AI Labs and IBM's new Manhattan offices.

Ritika Gunnar, IBM's General Manager for Data and AI, commented, "Watsonx AI Labs provides top AI developers access to elite engineers and resources to build new businesses and applications. By establishing this mission in New York City, we are investing in a diverse, world-class talent pool and a dynamic community renowned for shaping the technology landscape."

Register Now and Save for TechCrunch Sessions: AI

Get $300 off your ticket to TC Sessions: AI, plus 50% off a second pass. Join industry leaders from OpenAI, Anthropic, Khosla Ventures, and others for a full day of expert insights, interactive workshops, and high-value networking. These special rates end when the event begins on June 5.

Exhibit at TechCrunch Sessions: AI

Secure your exhibition space at TC Sessions: AI and present your innovations to over 1,200 key decision-makers—all without the typical high costs. This offer is available until May 9 or while exhibition tables remain.

IBM detailed in a press release that Watsonx AI Labs will function as a collaborative hub where its researchers and engineers develop AI solutions for corporate clients. The accelerator will also pursue partnerships with local universities and research institutions.

Startups that successfully launch products through the accelerator will gain access to IBM's resources and potential investment from IBM Ventures, the company's corporate venture arm, and its dedicated $500 million enterprise AI fund.