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Record investments in artificial intelligence are accelerating the global market.
The global venture capital market for startups is experiencing a period of accelerated recovery in November 2025, with investments in artificial intelligence (AI) standing out, reaching record values and driving a new generation of unicorns — companies valued at over US$1 billion.
Since the beginning of the year, leading generative AI startups have reached valuations close to US$1 trillion, attracting multi-million dollar funding rounds and raising the bar for quality and scalability required for new companies in the sector. Among the largest recent funding rounds are:
- Harvey (USA): US$ 150 million for legal AI, with a valuation of US$ 8 billion.
- Synthesia (United Kingdom): US$ 200 million for expansion in video generation.
- Fireworks AI (USA): US$ 250 million series C in genomics and health.
- Legora (Sweden): US$ invests $150 million in AI-powered legal software, with a valuation of US$ at $1.8 billion.
- Armis (USA): US$ $435 million pre-IPO, valuation of US$ $6.1 billion in IoT cybersecurity.
In addition to investments, the sector is marked by mega-transactions involving mergers and acquisitions (M&A), mainly in cybersecurity, fintech, AI, and software infrastructure, creating new centers of expertise and accelerating product roadmaps. For investors, these operations represent opportunities for exit and reallocation of capital to new ventures.
Brazil stands out with the largest delegation and expansion of the ecosystem.
At Web Summit Lisbon 2025, taking place from November 10th to 13th, Brazil made its presence felt with its largest delegation ever, bringing together approximately 340 to 380 startups and innovative companies. Organized by ApexBrasil and Sebrae, the delegation demonstrates the country's growing strength in the global innovation landscape.
According to data from the Sebrae Startups Observatory, Brazil surpassed the mark of 20,000 active innovative companies in August 2025, a growth of 301,000 in one year. The Brazilian ecosystem is recognized for its regional diversity and its capacity to offer scalable technological solutions in different sectors, such as tourism, energy, and health.
The president of ApexBrasil, Jorge Viana, emphasized the commitment to the internationalization of Brazilian startups, highlighting the Web Summit as an essential platform for expanding businesses and attracting global investments.
Innovation in tourism and sustainability as drivers of growth.
Embratur brought eight Brazilian startups focused on tourism to the event in Lisbon, highlighting solutions that combine artificial intelligence, blockchain, and neuroscience applied to the tourist experience. These initiatives reinforce the sector's vision that innovation and sustainability are the foundations for tourism growth in Brazil.
Programs like EmbraturLAB, in partnership with major companies such as Google and TikTok, accelerate startups focused on digital transformation, modernization, and new experiences, promoting the country's international competitiveness.
Pressures for quality, governance, and ESG goals.
The potential for AI investments by 2026 is estimated at US$$ 500 billion, putting pressure on the global ecosystem to adopt rigorous criteria for quality, governance, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impact. At the event, experts argued that Brazilian startups should incorporate these goals to gain a competitive advantage and attract capital.
Photo by Mario Gogh on Unsplash
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