Artificial intelligence continued to push boundaries in 2025, with the launch of agents that interact with web apps to finish complex tasks and efforts to apply AI in areas like scientific discovery and construction. But the advancements weren’t just limited to the technology— discussions also centered around creative financing strategies to fund the multi-billion dollar AI infrastructure buildout. As the industry matures, Forbes is opening submissions for our annual AI 50 list to highlight the frontrunners.

Since 2019, Forbes has published the AI 50, highlighting the most promising startups whose businesses are underpinned by artificial intelligence. Now in its eighth year, the list is open to companies across the globe that are held privately and are more than 50% independent. In the increasingly noisy AI landscape, the AI 50 list features successful startups that are meaningfully applying AI to solve real world problems across different industries.

Forbes produces the list in partnership with Sequoia Capital and Meritech Capital. Applicants are evaluated using both quantitative and qualitative information including technical abilities, revenue, business growth and valuation. Two panels of independent judges — one with academic or professional expertise in AI, and the other with long-standing........

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