IBM acquires Seek AI, launches Watsonx AI Labs Accelerator in NYC
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES — Tech giant IBM has acquired Seek AI, a New York-based startup specializing in natural language data analytics, as part of a broader push to scale enterprise AI offerings. The company also announced the launch of Watsonx AI Labs, a new AI accelerator headquartered in Manhattan.
Seek AI: Bridging natural language and enterprise data
Founded in 2021 by Sarah Nagy, Seek AI developed a platform that lets non-technical users ask questions about company data using plain English. The software then translates those questions into database queries, providing quick and automated analysis and insights.
Seek AI had raised $10 million from investors, including Battery Ventures, Conviction Partners, and NJP Ventures, before its acquisition.
In a LinkedIn post, Nagy confirmed that Seek AI’s team and technology will integrate into IBM’s Watsonx AI Labs. “[W]e’ll scale our platform, deploy mission-critical solutions for IBM clients, empower the next generation of AI developers, and grow our team significantly,” she wrote.
Watsonx AI Labs: IBM’s enterprise AI bet
The acquisition of Seek aligns with IBM’s growing focus on enterprise-grade AI. The new Watsonx AI Labs at One Madison in New York City will serve as a collaborative hub for building AI solutions, according to IBM’s press release.
Startups in the accelerator will gain access to IBM researchers, resources, and potential funding through IBM Ventures and its $500 million enterprise AI fund.
“By anchoring this mission in New York City, we are investing in a diverse, world‑class talent pool and a vibrant community whose innovations have long shaped the tech landscape,” said Ritika Gunnar, IBM’s General Manager of Data and AI.
Watsonx AI Labs will also partner with local universities and research institutions to foster talent and innovation in the AI space.
IBM doubles down on AI growth
Founded 114 years ago, IBM is one of the largest technology employers in the U.S. and operates in over 175 countries. Its 250,000-strong workforce supports hybrid cloud infrastructure, AI development, and digital consulting services across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and telecom.
In Q1 2025, IBM posted revenues of $14.54 billion. Its infrastructure segment, including mainframes, generated $2.89 billion. Earlier this month, the company launched its newest z17 AI mainframe to bolster enterprise AI workloads.
