Handshake, an AI data labeling startup, has acquired Cleanlab, a data label auditing startup, in a strategic move to strengthen its talent and data quality capabilities. Cleanlab, known for its software that enhances the quality of data produced by human labelers, has attracted significant interest in the acquisition space.
The acquisition, structured as an acquihire, will bring nine key researchers from Cleanlab, including co-founders Curtis Northcutt, Jonas Mueller, and Anish Athalye, who hold PhDs in computer science from MIT, to Handshake’s research organization.
Cleanlab’s researchers have expertise in developing algorithms that identify incorrect data without the need for a second human reviewer, aligning with Handshake’s goal of providing high-quality data for AI labs. Notably, Cleanlab had raised $30 million from investors like Menlo Ventures, TQ Ventures, and Bain Capital Ventures, and at its peak, employed over 30 individuals.
Handshake’s Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer, Sahil Bhaiwala, emphasized the importance of data quality and highlighted the synergy between the two teams. While Cleanlab attracted interest from other AI data labeling companies, they ultimately chose Handshake due to the platform’s reputation for sourcing human experts effectively.
Source: TechCrunch