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Scale AI's life after Meta deal has been rocky, but CFO insists it's not a 'zombie company'
CNBCยท 2025-11-04 15:30
Core Insights - Meta's $14.3 billion investment in Scale AI raised concerns about the company's future, but Scale AI's CFO Dennis Cinelli asserts that the company is thriving and has secured significant contracts recently [1][2][3] Company Overview - Scale AI, founded in 2016, specializes in preparing data for AI training and competes with firms like Appen and Surge AI [3] - The company has two main business segments: data services and applications, with a focus on custom AI solutions for large enterprises and government [3][12] Financial Performance - Scale AI generated nearly $1 billion in revenue last year and is currently bringing in revenue "well into the nine figures" [5][12] - The U.S. Department of Defense awarded Scale contracts worth $99 million in August and $100 million in September [3] Business Developments - Despite initial doubts following the Meta deal, Scale AI has signed significant contracts and continues to work with major AI labs and tech companies [9][10] - The applications business has doubled in the second half of 2025 compared to the first half, indicating strong growth potential [12] Workforce Changes - Scale AI laid off 200 employees, approximately 14% of its workforce, in July to become more agile, but is now looking to hire 200 new employees [13] - The company is expanding its office presence in major cities, including New York and London [13][15] Strategic Direction - Under new leadership, Scale AI has shifted its mission to focus on developing reliable AI systems for critical decisions, moving away from its previous mission [16] - The company maintains a strong financial position with $1 billion on its balance sheet, reducing the immediate need for further fundraising [15]