IBM Acquires Seek AI to Boost Enterprise AI with Watsonx Labs

IBM has taken a significant step forward in its enterprise AI strategy by acquiring Seek AI, a startup that enables users to ask questions about enterprise data using natural language. This acquisition, announced on Monday, will integrate Seek AI’s innovative platform into IBM’s newly launched Watsonx AI Labs, an AI accelerator based in New York City.

Founded in 2021 by Sarah Nagy, Seek AI offers a chatbot-like interface that translates natural language queries into database commands, performing advanced data analysis and summarization. This technology empowers businesses to interact with their data more intuitively, breaking down barriers between complex datasets and decision-makers.

IBM’s acquisition aligns with its broader goal to expand AI investments, particularly in enterprise applications. The company’s recent Q1 earnings reflected strong software growth and increasing AI demand, validating this strategic focus.

Seek AI raised approximately $10 million from investors such as Battery Ventures and Conviction Partners before the acquisition. Following the deal, Seek AI’s headquarters will relocate to One Madison, the site of Watsonx AI Labs and IBM’s new Manhattan offices, fostering close collaboration.

Watsonx AI Labs: A Hub for Innovation

Watsonx AI Labs aims to be a collaborative hub where IBM researchers, engineers, and AI developers build mission-critical AI solutions for enterprises. The lab will also partner with local colleges and research institutions to tap into New York City’s diverse and world-class talent pool.

Startups that launch successful products at Watsonx AI Labs can access IBM’s extensive resources and potential funding from IBM Ventures and its $500 million enterprise AI fund, creating a powerful ecosystem for AI innovation and commercialization.

Why This Matters for Enterprises

The integration of Seek AI’s natural language querying capabilities into IBM’s AI offerings simplifies data access for business users, enabling faster insights without requiring deep technical expertise. This democratization of data interaction can accelerate decision-making and drive competitive advantage.

Moreover, IBM’s commitment to building AI innovation hubs like Watsonx AI Labs signals a growing trend where tech giants invest heavily in nurturing AI ecosystems that combine research, development, and startup acceleration under one roof.

For enterprises looking to leverage AI, this means access to cutting-edge tools and partnerships that can transform how data drives business outcomes.