Ambient, a L1 fusing SVM compatibility with PoW and Verified AI Inference, Raises $7.2M Seed from a16z Accelerator Program, Delphi Ventures

March 31, 2025

Ambient has secured $7.2 million in seed funding, with Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) leading the round through its crypto accelerator program. Delphi Digital also participated in the investment. The blockchain project is designed to integrate artificial intelligence into a proof-of-work framework, offering an alternative to centralized AI systems. According to co-founder Travis Good, Ambient could provide an option for Bitcoin miners looking for new opportunities while positioning itself as a decentralized AI platform.

The project is structured to run AI models directly on-chain, distinguishing it from other blockchain-based AI initiatives. While platforms such as Bittensor facilitate AI data coordination, Ambient focuses on executing AI computations natively within its network. The proof-of-work mechanism aligns with traditional mining operations, allowing Bitcoin miners to transition their computational resources. The model relies on "verified inference," a system that ensures AI outputs are verifiable and resistant to manipulation.

As the AI and blockchain sectors continue to converge, Ambient’s approach aims to address concerns over transparency and reliability in AI-generated information. Delphi Digital’s Alex Golding highlighted the risks associated with centralized AI, citing concerns over data provenance and potential manipulation. By leveraging blockchain for AI verification, Ambient seeks to establish a trust-based alternative to existing AI services. The project’s next phase involves expanding its network and onboarding developers to integrate AI applications within the blockchain.

About Ambient

Ambient is a blockchain network designed to run artificial intelligence computations through a proof-of-work consensus mechanism. It provides an infrastructure where miners validate AI outputs, ensuring transparency and security. The project aims to create a decentralized alternative to conventional AI platforms.

Website: https://ambient.xyz/

X: @ambient_xyz

About Investor

a16z

Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) is a venture capital firm specializing in technology investments, including blockchain and artificial intelligence. Founded in 2009 by Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz, the firm supports early-stage and growth-stage companies across multiple industries.

Location: Menlo Park, CA

Website:https://a16z.com/

Delphi Digital

Delphi Digital is a research-driven investment firm focused on blockchain technology and digital assets. The firm provides in-depth analysis and strategic funding for projects at the intersection of crypto and artificial intelligence, aiming to advance the decentralized economy.

Location: Miami Beach, FL

Website: https://delphiventures.io/

A central focus of investor activity in the cryptocurrency space is the evaluation of new crypto projects to invest in, particularly those with huge potential. This blog provides insight into what new ventures are benefiting from venture capital support (VC funding in crypto). These new crypto projects, funded by professional investors, can dictate the next narrative in crypto and the next big crypto movers.