### Introduction
In the dynamic world of **startups** and **entrepreneurship**, many former employees of tech giants are making a name for themselves by launching their own ventures. Among them are **19 former Palantir employees** who have transitioned into the startup ecosystem, showcasing their innovative ideas and leadership skills.

### The Rise of Former Palantir Employees
Palantir Technologies, known for its data analytics and software solutions, has been a breeding ground for talent. Many of its former employees have taken the leap into entrepreneurship, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge and experience. These **entrepreneurs** are now leading startups that cover a wide range of industries, from **AI** to **customer insights**.

### Notable Startups and Founders
1. **[Startup Name 1]** - Focuses on [brief description].
2. **[Startup Name 2]** - Innovating in [brief description].
3. **[Startup Name 3]** - Aiming to disrupt [brief description].

Each founder brings a unique perspective and expertise, contributing to the diverse **startup landscape**.

### Conclusion
The journey from employee to entrepreneur is filled with challenges and opportunities. The experiences gained at Palantir have equipped these individuals with the tools necessary to navigate the startup world successfully.

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From Palantir to Pioneers: 19 Ex-Employees Launch Exciting Startups

### D-ID: A Brief Overview
D-ID, founded in **2017** by **Gil Perry**, **Sela Blundheim**, and **Eliran Kota**, is an Israeli startup that specializes in **AI-based interactive avatars**. The company focuses on enhancing **customer experience**, **marketing**, **learning**, and **accessibility** through innovative technology. To date, D-ID has successfully raised **$48 million**, including a notable **$25 million Series B** round in **March 2022**, led by **Macquarie Capital** with contributions from **Pitango**, **AXA**, **OurCrowd**, **OIF**, **Maverick**, and **Marubeni**.

### Recent Developments
In a recent move aimed at enhancing efficiency and preparing for **accelerated growth**, D-ID has announced the **layoff of 22 employees**, which constitutes **25% of its workforce**. This decision affects **19 employees in Israel** and **three abroad**, reducing the total workforce to **66 employees** globally.

### Strategic Partnership with Microsoft
Just a week prior to the layoffs, D-ID revealed a **strategic partnership with Microsoft**. This collaboration aims to integrate D-ID's technology into Microsoft's offerings, facilitating a transition for business users into an **AI-driven future**.

### Company Commitment
In their statement regarding the layoffs, D-ID expressed gratitude for the contributions of the departing employees and committed to supporting them in their future endeavors.

The Israeli company is cutting 22 employees, mostly in Israel, as part of an efficiency drive. 

D-ID Cuts Workforce by 25% Following Major Microsoft Partnership: What’s Next for the AI Startup?

### The Rise and Fall of Synapse

In the world of startups, **failure** can often lead to **new opportunities**. However, the story of Synapse, a fintech company founded by **Sankaet Pathak**, is a stark reminder of the **risks** involved. 

I started covering the crypto industry at **Fortune** in August 2022, just months before the infamous **FTX collapse**. Since then, I’ve encountered stories of **spectacular failures**, but Synapse’s downfall mirrors FTX in many ways, though it hasn't received as much public scrutiny.

### A Fintech Vision Gone Wrong

Synapse was launched during the **banking as a service** wave, aiming to connect fintech startups lacking banking charters, such as **Mercury** and **Dave**, with regional banks. Despite its rapid growth, the company faced **poor internal controls** and management issues, which strained relationships with its banking partners, ultimately leading to its **bankruptcy** last April.

### The Fallout

The collapse of Synapse significantly impacted various fintech applications, including **Yotta**, which had assured users that their deposits were **FDIC-insured**. Following the bankruptcy, **$200 million** in customer assets were frozen, with nearly **$95 million still missing** almost a year later. Customers like **Kayla Morris**, who invested her life savings, are left in desperation, having only received a mere **$500** back.

### Regulatory Concerns

The case of Synapse raises serious **regulatory questions**. Operating in a grey area without clear oversight, no agency has taken responsibility for the fallout. It has become a blame game among **Synapse**, the banks, fintech clients, and the users, reminiscent of a **nightmare version of the Spider-Man meme**.

### The Myth of the Founder

Unlike some infamous founders, such as **Sam Bankman-Fried** or **Elizabeth Holmes**, Pathak has yet to face any legal repercussions. Interestingly, he has successfully raised **$11 million** for a new venture focused on **humanoid robotics**. This scenario begs the question: how much failure is too much for investors to stop funding a founder?

When asked about his regrets regarding Synapse, Pathak stated, **"There’s no shame in failing, unless it’s catastrophic."** This mindset reflects the evolving narrative surrounding startup culture, where failure can sometimes be seen as a stepping stone to future success.

We delved into this story by interviewing former employees and analyzing court documents to uncover the complexities behind Synapse's collapse. For a deeper understanding, check out our full investigation [here](https://fortune.com/2025/03/07/synapse-evolve-mercury-bankruptcy-lawsuits/).

"There's no shame in failing, unless it's catastrophic," says Synapse founder Sankaet Pathak.

From Bankruptcy to New Beginnings: The Controversial Journey of Startup Founder Sankaet Pathak

## Overview of Pre-Seed Investment Surge

**Pre-Seed investments** are witnessing a remarkable surge in **Israel** over the past year, with **venture capitalists** and **angel investors** significantly increasing their activity. According to **Fusion’s annual Pre-Seed Investment Report**, the number of early-stage investments by angels has **doubled**, largely influenced by the stabilization of the war in the region. However, investors are now demanding more than just a concept and a pitch deck before they commit funds.

## Key Investment Insights

The report outlines pre-Seed funding rounds of up to **$1.5 million**, based on data from **51 active angel investors**, **40 VC funds**, and insights from nearly **1,100 Israeli startups**. Key findings include:
- **Half of all pre-Seed rounds** are between **$825,000 and $1.5 million**, with **median valuation caps** exceeding **$6 million**.
- The **median round size** is **$825,000**, typically consisting of **$750,000 from VCs** and **$75,000 from angels**.

![Tel Aviv skyline](https://pic1.calcalist.co.il/picserver3/crop_images/2022/05/30/9SAIWW0AM/9SAIWW0AM_0_0_490_327_0_x-large.jpg)
*(Photo: Rotem Rogowski)*

## Stricter Investment Criteria

Despite a rise in stability within both global and Israeli markets, **pre-Seed valuations** have remained mostly stable. **63% of VCs** and **50% of angels** reported no significant changes from last year. However, **31% of VCs** and **38% of angels** indicated they invested at lower valuation caps, showcasing a **more cautious investment approach**.

### Evolving Investor Expectations

**Investor expectations** have significantly shifted. The report highlights a decline in willingness to fund startups at the idea stage. In **2023**, **29% of angels** and **46% of VCs** backed concept-stage ventures, whereas in **2024**, only **24% of angels** and **15% of VCs** are inclined to do so, favoring startups that exhibit a **working product, pilot programs, or initial users**. According to **Amit Shechter**, Head of Fusion’s Investment Team, “**Investors today expect founders to demonstrate product maturity, team execution, and market validation** before committing capital.”

## Angel Investors on the Rise

Angel investors have dramatically increased their involvement, with the percentage of angels making more than five investments quadrupling from **8% to 32%** in **2024**. Those making more than eight investments doubled to **10%**. Meanwhile, VCs are becoming more flexible, with fewer funds insisting on leading rounds—down from **55% in 2023** to **48% in 2024**.

Conversely, the number of pre-Seed rounds featuring **3-4 angels** has dropped sharply from **72%** in **2023** to **45%** in **2024**, indicating a trend towards fewer angels participating in funding rounds.

## AI's Dominance in Investment

**Artificial intelligence** continues to dominate pre-Seed investments, with **78% of VCs** and **63% of angels** reporting multiple AI-related deals. However, **20% of investors** are avoiding AI startups due to concerns over **market saturation** and fierce competition. Deep-tech AI investments remain a niche focus, with only **10% of investors** showing interest beyond application-layer solutions.

## The Shift Towards SAFE Agreements

The report also reveals a shift in deal structuring, with more pre-Seed rounds executed via **SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity)** notes. In **2024**, **51% of VC-led pre-Seed rounds** were structured as SAFEs, up from **42%** last year, marking a move away from traditional equity financing. According to **Yair Vardi**, a founding partner at Fusion, this approach benefits early-stage founders who need to **grow incrementally** rather than securing large sums upfront.

![Investment strategies](https://player.anyclip.com/anyclip-widget/lre-widget/assets/lg-player-footer2.jpg)


VCs and angel investors double activity, but demand more from founders before investing.

The Boom in Israeli Pre-Seed Investments: What Founders Need to Know

### Peak XV Partners' Bold Investment in AI Startups

Venture capital fund **Peak XV Partners** (previously known as **Sequoia India**) is making waves with its **$33 million investment** in **Luminai**, an AI startup focused on streamlining workflows for enterprises. This investment is notable as it represents the **largest growth-stage AI deal** for Peak XV in the US.

Luminai, formerly known as **DigitalBrain**, was founded in **2019** in San Mateo, California, by **Kesava Kirupa Dinakaran** and **Dmitry Dolgopolov**. The startup is now valued at **over $200 million**, significantly up from its previous valuation of **$90 million** after raising **$16 million** from notable investors like **Y Combinator** and **General Catalyst**.

### New Partner Announcement

In addition to the investment, Peak XV has appointed **Arnav Sahu**, a former principal at **Y Combinator**, as a new partner. Sahu has played a crucial role in growth investments at YC and is expected to enhance Peak XV's deal-making capabilities. Notably, Luminai is part of Sahu's former YC portfolio.

### Expanding US Presence

Since its separation from Sequoia in **2023**, Peak XV has been actively expanding its **U.S. presence**, hiring key personnel like **Chris Merritt** and **Dini Mehta** to support portfolio companies. Sahu's addition marks a significant step towards deepening their investment strategy in the competitive venture landscape.

### Luminai's Focus and Growth

Luminai is pivoting towards the **healthcare sector**, automating operations like **patient management** and **revenue cycle management**. The startup is projected to achieve an **annual recurring revenue (ARR)** of **$6 million** primarily from healthcare clients. With a strong founder profile, including a two-time **Guinness World Record holder**, Luminai is well-positioned for future growth.

The company has undergone multiple pivots, initially starting as a 'Superhuman for Zendesk' venture, and now leveraging **Gen AI** technologies post-ChatGPT to automate various processes across sectors. 

### Financial Trajectory

Luminai's journey reflects a significant transformation, having raised funds at various stages, including a **Series A round** at a valuation of **$90 million** when its ARR was only **$300,000**. The company has since evolved its offerings, focusing on healthcare automation and competing with ventures like **RapidClaims.ai**.

Peak XV Partners has  roped in Arnav Sahu as partner.

Peak XV Partners Makes Big Move in AI: $33 Million Investment in Luminai and New US Partner Announcement

Bringing a **startup mindset** to the family office world can transform the traditional investment approach, introducing **dynamism** and **entrepreneurial spirit**. Here’s how to navigate this journey:

### 1. **Foundational Questions = The “Startup Idea”**
Every successful startup starts with a **clear mission**. For a family office, it’s essential to define its purpose—whether to preserve wealth, pursue entrepreneurial investments, or drive philanthropic impact.

### 2. **Key Hires = The Early Team**
Just like startups, the initial hires in a family office are crucial. The **founding team**—often a CIO, CFO, and other key roles—will set the tone and culture of the office.

### 3. **Tech Stack = Building the Infrastructure**
Adopting a modern **tech stack** is vital for success. Wealth management platforms and productivity tools can streamline operations and ensure transparency.

### 4. **Processes & Governance = Organizational Framework**
Implementing structured frameworks, like a **family charter**, helps clarify governance and decision-making processes, keeping the office aligned with its mission.

### 5. **Building a Brand = Standing Out in the Marketplace**
A strong brand can attract talent and investment opportunities. For those who prefer discretion, internal branding helps articulate values and mission.

### 6. **Values & Strategy = Company Culture**
Defining core values is essential for guiding investment strategies and philanthropic initiatives—aligning the family’s priorities is key to long-term success.

### 7. **Professionalization & Scale-Up Mindset**
As family offices grow, they evolve from informal teams to structured organizations with specialized roles and processes, implementing formal policies and risk management frameworks.

### 8. **Documents & Legals = The Business Fundamentals**
Establishing a robust legal framework is critical for compliance and operational clarity, including ownership structures and agreements with family members.

### 9. **Exit or Long-Term Maintenance = The Business Horizon**
Family offices may evolve rather than exit. Planning for future transitions—like opening to multi-family services or structuring for generational changes—is essential.

By **thinking of a family office like a startup**, you can navigate its early stages effectively, ensuring it remains agile and aligned with family values while adapting to future needs.

Bring a startup mindset to find the essential first hires, technology stack, operational framework in a new family office, from finance and investments to operations.

Unlocking Wealth: 9 Startup Principles to Revolutionize Your Family Office

For entrepreneurs, coming up with a **great idea** is, unfortunately, the easy part. Even after you've had your **lightbulb moment**, conducted market research, and created a business plan, you still have to figure out how to attract your **first customers**. 

The harsh reality is that an amazing idea isn't actually amazing if you have no way to get it in front of people. It's called the **cold start problem** — the challenge of building momentum when a business, product, or platform has no initial user base or activity. This issue is particularly relevant for companies relying on **network effects** — think **Airbnb** or **eBay** — where the value of the product or service increases with more users.

### Build a Minimum Viable Product (MVP)

The advice I often share is to **build an MVP**. Borrowed from thought leader **Eric Ries**, an MVP is a version of a new product that allows a team to collect the maximum amount of **validated learning** about customers with the least amount of effort. The purpose is to test an idea at a minimal cost that can elicit a response from the target audience, paving the way for future iterations.

Once your MVP is built, making it **free** is the best strategy to gain traction. Even a few visitors to your website can turn into users who provide **valuable feedback**. The MVP approach allows quick development and essential data collection, giving founders a chance to experiment, collect feedback, and improve.

### Build in a Hot Market

**Timing is everything**, and the success of a startup often hinges on it. Take **Instagram**, which launched in 2010, capitalizing on the enhanced photo capabilities of the iPhone 4 and the growing demand for instant photo sharing. In contrast, **Google Glass**, released in 2013, faced a market that wasn't ready for wearable technology, contributing to its failure.

By building in a hot market, you increase your product's chances of attracting users. Currently, **AI** is a booming area, with people actively seeking AI products and services. However, launching in such a competitive market means you need a **unique value proposition** to stand out.

### Learn to Love the 50/50 Rule

One principle I live by is the **50/50 rule**, which dictates that startups should spend half their time on **product development** and the other half on **marketing**. As a developer, I found this revelation challenging, but neglecting either aspect can jeopardize your success. 

Attracting and converting users involves **targeted marketing**, understanding your audience, their pain points, and how to effectively reach them. At **Jotform**, we’ve successfully engaged users through strategic blogging and feedback collection.

Attracting and retaining users requires strategic thinking: build an MVP to test your idea, launch in a ripe market, and iterate based on real-world feedback. **Timing**, **persistence**, and **adaptability** are key. Even if your first attempt doesn’t take off, it’s a stepping stone toward finding something that works.

Building momentum without an existing user base is hard. But if your business is going to succeed, it has to be done.

Unlocking Startup Success: How to Find Your Perfect Market Fit

## Groundbreaking Achievement in AI Funding

Israel has become a hotbed for innovative technology, and **Safe Superintelligence**, a pioneering startup, is making headlines by raising **$2 billion** in funding. This monumental investment underscores the growing interest and confidence in **artificial intelligence** and its potential to reshape industries.

With a focus on creating **safe and reliable AI systems**, Safe Superintelligence aims to address the challenges of AI development while ensuring ethical standards are maintained. This funding round is not just a financial milestone but also a **validation** of the startup's vision to lead in the AI space.

The influx of capital will enable the company to accelerate its **research and development**, expand its team, and enhance its product offerings. Investors are betting on the future of AI, and Safe Superintelligence is positioned to be at the forefront of this technological revolution.

![AI Innovation](https://www.jns.org/favicon.ico)

As the world increasingly relies on AI technologies, the importance of ensuring their safety and alignment with human values cannot be overstated. Safe Superintelligence is setting a precedent for future AI ventures, proving that it's possible to innovate while prioritizing **safety and ethics**.

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From Palantir to Pioneers: 19 Ex-Employees Launch Exciting Startups

Summary:

Introduction

The Rise of Former Palantir Employees

Notable Startups and Founders

Conclusion

Comments

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Other Latest News

D-ID Cuts Workforce by 25% Following Major Microsoft Partnership: What’s Next for the AI Startup?

From Bankruptcy to New Beginnings: The Controversial Journey of Startup Founder Sankaet Pathak

The Boom in Israeli Pre-Seed Investments: What Founders Need to Know

Peak XV Partners Makes Big Move in AI: $33 Million Investment in Luminai and New US Partner Announcement

Unlocking Wealth: 9 Startup Principles to Revolutionize Your Family Office

Unlocking Startup Success: How to Find Your Perfect Market Fit

Revolutionizing AI: Israel's Safe Superintelligence Startup Secures $2 Billion Funding

Other Latest News

D-ID Cuts Workforce by 25% Following Major Microsoft Partnership: What’s Next for the AI Startup?

From Bankruptcy to New Beginnings: The Controversial Journey of Startup Founder Sankaet Pathak

The Boom in Israeli Pre-Seed Investments: What Founders Need to Know

Peak XV Partners Makes Big Move in AI: $33 Million Investment in Luminai and New US Partner Announcement

Unlocking Wealth: 9 Startup Principles to Revolutionize Your Family Office

Unlocking Startup Success: How to Find Your Perfect Market Fit

Revolutionizing AI: Israel's Safe Superintelligence Startup Secures $2 Billion Funding