Ex-Unilever exec lands £7m for AI research platform Bolt Insight

Core Insights - Bolt Insight, a consumer insight platform, has raised £7 million in funding to support its expansion, with Pembroke VCT leading the round [1][2] - The platform utilizes AI-enabled workflows combined with human researchers to conduct qualitative studies rapidly, allowing real-time consumer engagement [2] - The company aims to enhance its global presence in a market valued at approximately $153 billion [4] Company Overview - Bolt Insight was co-founded by Hakan Yurdakul, a former Unilever executive with 14 years of experience in brand strategy, and Kerem Turgay, the chief technology officer [3] - The company has conducted interviews with over 5 million consumers and collaborated with more than 150 brands to date [3] Funding Details - The funding round included participation from investors such as 212, Active Partners, Velocity, and TIBAS Ventures [2] - Pembroke VCT contributed half of the total capital raised in this funding round [1] Market Position - The funding will be directed towards expanding BoltChatAI, reinforcing the company's position in the global insights market [4] - The CEO of Pembroke Investment Managers highlighted Bolt Insight as a prime example of how AI can transform traditional industries by integrating consumer feedback into decision-making processes [6]