Why We Invested: Distributional
Deepthi Madhava
October 2024
Distributional: Shaping the Future of AI Testing
As AI transforms industries worldwide, a critical challenge emerges: how do we ensure these complex systems are both reliable and consistent? Unlike traditional software, where predictable inputs lead to predictable outputs, AI operates in a realm of endless possibilities—where the same input can yield a variety of outcomes. This inherent unpredictability renders traditional testing methods obsolete, creating an urgent need for a new approach. That’s why we’re thrilled to back Distributional, a pioneering platform that’s redefining how enterprises test and validate AI applications.
The advent of AI, particularly generative AI, has added a new layer of complexity to software development. Traditional software testing is deterministic—much like following a recipe: if you use the same ingredients, you’ll always get the same dish. But AI is more akin to an experimental chef; even with the same ingredients, the results can vary wildly. This unpredictability makes it nearly impossible for conventional testing tools to ensure AI systems function as intended.
Distributional bridges this gap with an advanced testing platform specifically designed to address AI’s unique challenges. Rather than merely evaluating outcomes, Distributional tests dynamic systems to ensure they consistently produce results within acceptable ranges, even in the face of AI’s inherent unpredictability. Distributional offers a comprehensive testing, validation, and observability stack tailored to the specific demands of AI. This isn’t just a tool for testing—it’s an essential component for any enterprise serious about leveraging AI at scale.
Leading Distributional is Scott Clark, an Oregon-based entrepreneur with deep expertise in AI. Scott’s previous venture, SigOpt, was a trailblazer in machine learning optimization and was acquired by Intel. Now, he’s assembled a world-class team of AI and engineering experts from leading tech giants like Google, Intel, and Meta, all of whom bring profound expertise and a proven track record in scaling AI technologies. We’re excited to support Distributional alongside an all-star investor syndicate, including Two Sigma Ventures, Andreessen Horowitz, Operator Collective, Essence VC, Alumni Ventures and others.
Despite being only about a year old, Distributional is experiencing a strong pull for its offering from the market. The company is engaged in 60 large enterprise conversations across finance, technology, and industrial sectors, with 10 expected to move from demos to paid pilots soon.
With a visionary leadership team, a groundbreaking product, and a market eager for their solution, Distributional is set to redefine how AI systems are tested. We’re proud to be part of this journey as a local investor and can’t wait to see the impact Distributional will have on ensuring stable, secure, transparent, and reliable AI in the enterprise.