Haje recaps this week’s notable startup news, spotlighting the controversial shift from DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) to MEI (Merit, Excellence, and Intelligence) led by Scale AI’s Alexandr Wang. This pivot has sparked heated debates, with critics arguing it oversimplifies complex social issues. Meanwhile, Vinod Khosla shares his unexpected concerns about AI’s regulatory future, and Volkswagen invests $5 billion in Rivian to boost its software capabilities. Other notable fundraises include a $500,000 investment in a teen-led AI startup and Zepto’s $665 million funding to revolutionize instant grocery delivery. Christopher O’Donnell returns with an AI-driven CRM startup, and Daydream secures $50 million to streamline e-commerce searches. The article rounds off with a selection of intriguing TechCrunch stories that don’t fit neatly into the main categories but are too interesting to miss.
Startups Weekly – Tech Titans Embrace MEI, VW Bets Big on Rivian, and More
Scale AI’s Alexandr Wang replaces DEI with MEI, igniting tech industry debates.
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