What is Sama?
Sama, formerly known as Samasource, is a data annotation company that provides high-quality training data essential for the development of artificial intelligence. Beyond its core data services, Sama extends its impact by offering health and wellness education, professional skills development, and a scholarship program. The company also supports aspiring entrepreneurs through micro-loan and mentorship initiatives. Serving a clientele that includes major corporations like Walmart, Google, General Motors, and Microsoft, Sama operates delivery centers in Kenya and Uganda, with strategic partnerships in India, demonstrating a global operational footprint.
How much funding has Sama raised?
Sama has raised a total of $84.8M across 2 funding rounds:
Series A
$14.8M
Series B
$70M
Series A (2019): $14.8M with participation from Ridge Ventures
Series B (2021): $70M led by Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec
Key Investors in Sama
Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec
Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec, established in 1965, is a comprehensive portfolio investment firm managing institutional funds, primarily from public and private pension and insurance funds in Quebec. The firm is headquartered in Montreal, Quebec.
Ridge Ventures
Ridge Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm that invests in experienced founders transforming the software industry. The firm focuses on seed and Series A funding, typically investing $2-7M, and emphasizes founder character and alignment.
What's next for Sama?
The recent major strategic investment signifies Sama's transition into a scaling phase, likely aimed at expanding its technological capabilities, enhancing its service offerings, and broadening its market reach. This capital infusion is expected to fuel further innovation in AI data annotation and support the company's mission to provide economic opportunities in emerging markets. Sama's continued growth will be critical in meeting the escalating demand for sophisticated AI training data across various industries.
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