Copenhagen-based 2021.AI, a company that claims to be a leader in Responsible AI, has secured DKK 28M (€3.6M) in a bridge funding round, with participation from DNV Ventures and existing investors.
This investment will help 2021.AI to prepare for a larger funding round in Q1 2025.
Mikael Munck, CEO and founder of 2021.AI says, “We are delighted to welcome DNV as an investor and partner. This is the perfect match for 2021.AI, as we aim to work with the best and most respected companies in AI assessment and certification. With DNV’s expertise, we will significantly enhance our AI Governance offering via the GRACE AI platform.”
“With positive results for 2023, this investment allows us to continue growing our sales and marketing efforts to serve the Responsible AI market as we move towards our major funding round in Q1 2025,” adds Munck.
Solving complex business problems with AI
Founded in 2016 by Mikael Munck, 2021.AI was created to democratise advanced AI technology, making it accessible to organisations worldwide rather than concentrating it within a few tech giants.
Through its GRACE AI platform, the company addresses the essential components for effective AI implementation—models, platform, and governance.
Since 2019, 2021.AI has prioritised AI governance to ensure responsible implementation, adhering to global regulations, ethical guidelines, and codes of conduct.
Mikael Munck, CEO and founder of 2021.AI has over 25 years in technology and finance. He was formerly Global Head of Technology at Saxo Bank and CEO of Initto. He is also Chairman of Copenhagen FinTech and a board member and investor in several tech companies including Baffin Bay Networks, VirtuGo, and Provargo.
Support from DNV
DNV, an independent assurance and risk management provider in over 100 countries, helps customers navigate technological and regulatory complexities. The firm advances safety, sets industry standards, and innovates solutions, supporting clients in seizing opportunities and managing risks amid global transformations.
The funds and partnership with DNV will help 2021.AI to meet market demands for AI and data regulation compliance, including the EU AI Act, by leveraging DNV’s assurance expertise alongside 2021.AI’s GRACE AI platform to deliver a complete compliance solution.
DNV’s Digital Assurance Director, Frank Børre Pedersen, says, “At DNV, we pride ourselves on being a leader in shaping digital assurance of AI – a trait shared by 2021.AI, who is well-positioned to help us fast-track this work.”
“We see strong potential in our collaboration to extend our use of AI and enhance DNV’s presence in AI assurance and certification, a key focus area for us.”
The firm aims to provide AI systems by evaluating development processes and products with advanced AI testing technologies.
Nermina Ek, Investment Director at DNV Ventures, says, “It is estimated that up to 15 per cent of all AI models is or will be implemented in critical sectors such as healthcare, energy, and transport over the coming years. To ensure AI technology is scaled safely, trust in AI is essential.”
“We have screened more than 300 companies in this space and have followed 2021.AI for a while. The progress they have made in establishing themselves as a leader in delivering Responsible AI solutions is impressive.”
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