Latest news with #Menlo
Business Insider
21-07-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
There's money to be made in AI startups that boost human connections, according to a VC
AI adoption is ramping up, opening opportunities for new consumer startups. Menlo Ventures' recent "State of Consumer AI" report reveals categories the VC firm is eyeing. Business Insider spoke with two partners at the firm about where Menlo is placing bets. That's a question Menlo Ventures, a venture capital firm that's invested in companies like Uber, Tumblr, and Anthropic, wants to answer. Connection is one of a handful of "white space opportunities" that Menlo Ventures is eyeing as fertile ground for new startups in consumer AI technology, according to the firm's recent "The State of Consumer AI" report. Menlo Ventures and Morning Consult surveyed roughly 5,000 US-based adults in April about their feelings around AI and how they've used the tools within the past six months. "Today, usage is dominated by these generalist AI systems," such as OpenAI's ChatGPT or Google's Gemini, Menlo Ventures partner Amy Wu Martin told Business Insider. "But we're seeing, starting with specific categories, this move into more specialized apps." Menlo's research identified five broad categories where specialized AI apps are gaining traction: routine tasks, creative expression, physical and mental health, learning and development, and connection. Dating, social networking, AI companions, and more What falls under the connection umbrella? One niche is dating. Menlo's market map of consumer AI tools highlighted AI-powered matchmaking apps like A16z Speedrun alum Sitch, Keeper, and Ditto. Then there are social networking apps that use AI agents to surface new people to meet, such as Gigi or professional-focused startups like Series or Boardy. Menlo also puts AI companions (think Character AI or Replika) and the turn-yourself-into-a-bot startup Delphi (a Menlo investment) under its connection thesis. "People are starting to use AI as a bit of a crutch to actually figure out how to interact with people and feel less awkward," Martin said, pointing to examples of how people may use AI to prepare for a date or dinner party. In addition to dating advice or social coaching, the technology can be a semi-social outlet in itself, enabling users to interact with AI-generated personas. "The biggest gap in the AI connectivity is multiplayer mode," Martin said, referring to AI that facilitates and participates in group activities. Social media has largely morphed into entertainment — propelled by the rise of influencers — instead of a place to foster real-life connections. Menlo thinks AI could help bring people together, especially in the still-untapped realm of multiplayer experiences. "What is the tool that really just helps you be better in your relationships?" Menlo partner Shawn Carolan said. "I don't want more media coming my way. It's almost like the opposite of social media." But people aren't running en masse to AI for connection just yet. According to the report, only 14% of participants said they used AI for "staying in touch." Investors are buzzing about consumer AI A new crop of startups at the intersection of AI and social networking has stirred buzz with investors. "We are trying to understand where the puck is going," Martin said. "The next phase, especially consumer, is around these specialized apps." Menlo Ventures isn't the only firm betting on consumer AI applications. Amber Atherton, a partner at early-stage consumer fund Patron, recently told BI about wanting to invest in startups that better help people find new relationships and maintain their existing ones. Beyond connection, Menlo Ventures is also watching spaces like healthcare and wellness, financial management, personalized learning, home-related tasks, and family logistics as opportunities for startups. Parents, for instance, are AI "power users," according to Menlo's survey.
Business Insider
21-07-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
There's money to be made in AI startups that boost human connections, according to a VC
That's a question Menlo Ventures, a venture capital firm that's invested in companies like Uber, Tumblr, and Anthropic, wants to answer. Connection is one of a handful of "white space opportunities" that Menlo Ventures is eyeing as fertile ground for new startups in consumer AI technology, according to the firm's recent "The State of Consumer AI" report. Menlo Ventures and Morning Consult surveyed roughly 5,000 US-based adults in April about their feelings around AI and how they've used the tools within the past six months. "Today, usage is dominated by these generalist AI systems," such as OpenAI's ChatGPT or Google's Gemini, Menlo Ventures partner Amy Wu Martin told Business Insider. "But we're seeing, starting with specific categories, this move into more specialized apps." Menlo's research identified five broad categories where specialized AI apps are gaining traction: routine tasks, creative expression, physical and mental health, learning and development, and connection. Dating, social networking, AI companions, and more What falls under the connection umbrella? One niche is dating. Menlo's market map of consumer AI tools highlighted AI-powered matchmaking apps like A16z Speedrun alum Sitch, Keeper, and Ditto. Then there are social networking apps that use AI agents to surface new people to meet, such as Gigi or professional-focused startups like Series or Boardy. Menlo also puts AI companions (think Character AI or Replika) and the turn-yourself-into-a-bot startup Delphi (a Menlo investment) under its connection thesis. "People are starting to use AI as a bit of a crutch to actually figure out how to interact with people and feel less awkward," Martin said, pointing to examples of how people may use AI to prepare for a date or dinner party. In addition to dating advice or social coaching, the technology can be a semi-social outlet in itself, enabling users to interact with AI-generated personas. "The biggest gap in the AI connectivity is multiplayer mode," Martin said, referring to AI that facilitates and participates in group activities. Social media has largely morphed into entertainment — propelled by the rise of influencers — instead of a place to foster real-life connections. Menlo thinks AI could help bring people together, especially in the still-untapped realm of multiplayer experiences. "What is the tool that really just helps you be better in your relationships?" Menlo partner Shawn Carolan said. "I don't want more media coming my way. It's almost like the opposite of social media." But people aren't running en masse to AI for connection just yet. According to the report, only 14% of participants said they used AI for "staying in touch." Investors are buzzing about consumer AI A new crop of startups at the intersection of AI and social networking has stirred buzz with investors. "We are trying to understand where the puck is going," Martin said. "The next phase, especially consumer, is around these specialized apps." Menlo Ventures isn't the only firm betting on consumer AI applications. Amber Atherton, a partner at early-stage consumer fund Patron, recently told BI about wanting to invest in startups that better help people find new relationships and maintain their existing ones. Beyond connection, Menlo Ventures is also watching spaces like healthcare and wellness, financial management, personalized learning, home-related tasks, and family logistics as opportunities for startups. Parents, for instance, are AI "power users," according to Menlo's survey. "Ultimately, consumers are trying to get things done," Martin said.
Business Insider
18-07-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
A new opportunity for AI startups? A VC is betting 'multiplayer mode' can forge more human connections.
That's a question Menlo Ventures, a venture capital firm that's invested in companies like Uber, Tumblr, and Anthropic, wants to answer. Connection is one of a handful of "white space opportunities" that Menlo Ventures is eyeing as fertile ground for new startups in consumer AI technology, according to the firm's recent "The State of Consumer AI" report. Menlo Ventures and Morning Consult surveyed roughly 5,000 US-based adults in April about their feelings around AI and how they've used the tools within the past six months. "Today, usage is dominated by these generalist AI systems," such as OpenAI's ChatGPT or Google's Gemini, Menlo Ventures partner Amy Wu Martin told Business Insider. "But we're seeing, starting with specific categories, this move into more specialized apps." Menlo's research identified five broad categories where specialized AI apps are gaining traction: routine tasks, creative expression, physical and mental health, learning and development, and connection. Dating, social networking, AI companions, and more What falls under the connection umbrella? One niche is dating. Menlo's market map of consumer AI tools highlighted AI-powered matchmaking apps like A16z Speedrun alum Sitch, Keeper, and Ditto. Then there are social networking apps that use AI agents to surface new people to meet, such as Gigi or professional-focused startups like Series or Boardy. Menlo also puts AI companions (think Character AI or Replika) and the turn-yourself-into-a-bot startup Delphi (a Menlo investment) under its connection thesis. "People are starting to use AI as a bit of a crutch to actually figure out how to interact with people and feel less awkward," Martin said, pointing to examples of how people may use AI to prepare for a date or dinner party. In addition to dating advice or social coaching, the technology can be a semi-social outlet in itself, enabling users to interact with AI-generated personas. "The biggest gap in the AI connectivity is multiplayer mode," Martin said, referring to AI that facilitates and participates in group activities. Social media has largely morphed into entertainment — propelled by the rise of influencers — instead of a place to foster real-life connections. Menlo thinks AI could help bring people together, especially in the still-untapped realm of multiplayer experiences. "What is the tool that really just helps you be better in your relationships?" Menlo partner Shawn Carolan said. "I don't want more media coming my way. It's almost like the opposite of social media." But people aren't running en masse to AI for connection just yet. According to the report, only 14% of participants said they used AI for "staying in touch." Investors are buzzing about consumer AI A new crop of startups at the intersection of AI and social networking has stirred buzz with investors. "We are trying to understand where the puck is going," Martin said. "The next phase, especially consumer, is around these specialized apps." Menlo Ventures isn't the only firm betting on consumer AI applications. Amber Atherton, a partner at early-stage consumer fund Patron, recently told BI about wanting to invest in startups that better help people find new relationships and maintain their existing ones. Beyond connection, Menlo Ventures is also watching spaces like healthcare and wellness, financial management, personalized learning, home-related tasks, and family logistics as opportunities for startups. Parents, for instance, are AI "power users," according to Menlo's survey.
Business Insider
17-07-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
Why a VC is betting AI is 'the opposite of social media' and will forge more human connections
That's a question Menlo Ventures, a venture capital firm that's invested in companies like Uber, Tumblr, and Anthropic, wants to answer. Connection is one of a handful of "white space opportunities" that Menlo Ventures is eyeing as fertile ground for new startups in consumer AI technology, according to the firm's recent "The State of Consumer AI" report. Menlo Ventures and Morning Consult surveyed roughly 5,000 US-based adults in April about their feelings around AI and how they've used the tools within the past six months. "Today, usage is dominated by these generalist AI systems," such as OpenAI's ChatGPT or Google's Gemini, Menlo Ventures partner Amy Wu Martin told Business Insider. "But we're seeing, starting with specific categories, this move into more specialized apps." Menlo's research identified five broad categories where specialized AI apps are gaining traction: routine tasks, creative expression, physical and mental health, learning and development, and connection. Dating, social networking, AI companions, and more What falls under the connection umbrella? One niche is dating. Menlo's market map of consumer AI tools highlighted AI-powered matchmaking apps like A16z Speedrun alum Sitch, Keeper, and Ditto. Then there are social networking apps that use AI agents to surface new people to meet, such as Gigi or professional-focused startups like Series or Boardy. Menlo also puts AI companions (think Character AI or Replika) and the turn-yourself-into-a-bot startup Delphi (a Menlo investment) under its connection thesis. "People are starting to use AI as a bit of a crutch to actually figure out how to interact with people and feel less awkward," Martin said, pointing to examples of how people may use AI to prepare for a date or dinner party. In addition to dating advice or social coaching, the technology can be a semi-social outlet in itself, enabling users to interact with AI-generated personas. "The biggest gap in the AI connectivity is multiplayer mode," Martin said, referring to AI that facilitates and participates in group activities. Social media has largely morphed into entertainment — propelled by the rise of influencers — instead of a place to foster real-life connections. Menlo thinks AI could help bring people together, especially in the still-untapped realm of multiplayer experiences. "What is the tool that really just helps you be better in your relationships?" Menlo partner Shawn Carolan said. "I don't want more media coming my way. It's almost like the opposite of social media." But people aren't running en masse to AI for connection just yet. According to the report, only 14% of participants said they used AI for "staying in touch." Investors are buzzing about consumer AI A new crop of startups at the intersection of AI and social networking has stirred buzz with investors. "We are trying to understand where the puck is going," Martin said. "The next phase, especially consumer, is around these specialized apps." Menlo Ventures isn't the only firm betting on consumer AI applications. Amber Atherton, a partner at early-stage consumer fund Patron, recently told BI about wanting to invest in startups that better help people find new relationships and maintain their existing ones. Beyond connection, Menlo Ventures is also watching spaces like healthcare and wellness, financial management, personalized learning, home-related tasks, and family logistics as opportunities for startups. Parents, for instance, are AI "power users," according to Menlo's survey. "Ultimately, consumers are trying to get things done," Martin said.
Business Wire
29-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Experienced Lender Joins Menlo Dental Transitions as Practice Advisor for the Southeast
TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Menlo Dental Transitions is pleased to announce that Matt Adrian has joined the company as a Practice Advisor, where he will support dental practice owners throughout the Southeast. Adrian brings more than 25 years of experience in the dental lending industry, having funded nearly $2 billion in loan volume and guided hundreds of doctors through practice transitions. "My mission is to help doctors maximize the value of their practice and feel confident every step of the way.' - Matt Adrian 'For the past 25 years, I've been a lender dedicated to the dental transition space,' Adrian said. 'Now I'm bringing that experience directly to sellers. My mission is to help doctors maximize the value of their practices and feel confident every step of the way.' Adrian previously served as Regional Manager for Bank of America Practice Solutions, focusing on outside sales in the Southeast. During his 20-year tenure, he earned numerous distinctions, including four-time Salesperson of the Year, the Spirit of Excellence Award (given to the top 0.1 percent of performers nationally), and multiple years as a Top Volume Producer. Adrian also served for more than a decade on the Bank of America Leadership Council. He then continued his work in dental lending as Regional Director at Provide before joining Menlo. 'I joined Menlo because it was the only company I found that consistently reinvests in both its people and its business,' Adrian said. 'When I was told they hire the right person for the role—not the role for the person—that resonated with me. The culture, the standards, and the team here all reflect that commitment.' In his new role, Adrian will apply his industry expertise to help doctors achieve the highest possible sale price for their practice while ensuring a smooth, professional transition for practice staff, patients, and buyers alike. In addition to his professional accolades, Adrian is a U.S. Army veteran whose training included Sniper School, Airborne School, and Air Assault School. He was awarded the Expert Infantry Badge and deployed to Somalia during Operation Restore Hope. 'Matt has an outstanding track record in the dental industry and a deep understanding of what makes a transition successful,' said Mitch Lamb, CEO of Menlo Dental Transitions. 'We're excited to welcome him to the team and know he will be a tremendous asset to the doctors we serve.' About Menlo Dental Transitions Menlo Dental Transitions specializes in practice sales and valuations across the U.S. and has successfully sold hundreds of practices. Please visit to learn more.
