How Forbes Compiled The 2025 AI 50 List
The data partners Sequoia and Meritech Capital collaborate to compile the list. This collaboration ensures a comprehensive and accurate representation of the data. The list is a result of the combined efforts of these two reputable data partners. The collaboration enhances the credibility and reliability of the compiled list. The involvement of both Sequoia and Meritech Capital highlights the importance of data accuracy and integrity in the compilation process.
Forbes’ AI 50 list spotlights the most promising privately-held companies applying artificial intelligence to solve real-world challenges. Created in partnership with data partners Sequoia and Meritech Capital, the seventh annual installment reflects how companies across industries are using AI tools to streamline and even fully take over tasks previously done by humans.
The selection process begins with both a public call for nominations and targeted outreach to thousands of eligible startups by our partner, Meritech Capital. There is no fee to apply. Nominees are asked to provide both qualitative insights into aspects such as their business models, technical talent, and how they’re building and using AI-enabled technology—as well as quantitative metrics including valuation, revenue, and fundraising history. Companies may opt to submit some data confidentially. While optional, we also encourage submission of diversity-related metrics.
Selection Process
In parallel, Forbes, Meritech, and Sequoia identify standout AI companies that may not have applied but merit evaluation. Since 2023, eligibility has extended beyond North America to include privately-held companies worldwide. This year, Forbes received 1,861 submissions—making this year one of our most competitive yet.
An initial quantitative review of nominees is conducted using a proprietary algorithm developed by Sequoia Capital partner Konstantine Buhler. This model considers a mix of company-submitted data and external signals (including employee satisfaction scores, funding history, and customer traction) to assess three core dimensions: financial strength, organizational culture, and diversity. While withholding data does not harm an application, submitting comprehensive details can improve visibility in the review process.
From there, the top 100 companies are reviewed by a panel of expert judges with backgrounds in academia, research, and leading technology firms. These reviewers assess the nominees’ technical rigor, innovation potential, and team strength. The most promising 70 companies are then evaluated by a group of seasoned AI investors, who weigh in with market-focused perspectives on competitiveness and scalability. Any judge with a financial stake in a candidate company is recused from evaluating it. The final AI 50 list is curated by Forbes editors and reflects the most compelling AI startups of the year. Companies are presented alphabetically and are not ranked.
Expert Judges
Below are some of the expert judges who contribute to the selection process:
- Joy Buolamwini
- Tanya Berger-Wolf
- Thomas Dohmke
- Joe Edwards
- R. David Edelman
- Anna Korhonen
- Jason Mars
- Nashlie Sephus
- Sophie Lebrecht
Investor Panel
Additionally, the AI 50 list is evaluated by a panel of AI investors with expertise in the field:
- Konstantine Buhler
- Sarah Catanzaro
- Sameer Dholakia
- Miles Grimshaw
- Sarah Guo
- Aaref Hilaly
- Jocelyn Goldfein
- Christopher Manning
- Ravi Mhatre
- Matt Murphy
- Rudina Seseri
- Rob Toews
- Rob Ward
- Emily Zhao