# Scale AI Gets $14B Meta Boost, CEO Joins Meta
Meta’s Massive Investment in Scale AI
Artificial intelligence data-labeling powerhouse Scale AI has announced a game-changing $14.3 billion investment from Meta, valuing the startup at $29 billion. The deal marks one of the largest strategic investments in AI infrastructure to date, with Meta acquiring a 49% stake in the company.
Leadership Transition at Scale AI
In a surprising move, Scale AI co-founder and CEO Alexandr Wang will step down to join Meta directly. Wang will focus on advancing Meta’s superintelligence initiatives, bringing his expertise in AI training data to the social media giant’s research efforts. Current Scale AI Chief Strategy Officer Jason Droege will serve as interim CEO during this transition.
Strategic Implications for Meta’s AI Race
The investment comes as Meta battles AI leaders like Google, OpenAI, and Anthropic in the intensifying artificial intelligence arms race. Meta confirmed the partnership will deepen collaboration on data production for AI models. This move follows reports that Meta lost 4.3% of its top AI talent to competitors in 2024, highlighting the company’s aggressive push to strengthen its position.
Scale AI’s Growing Influence
As the premier provider of AI training data, Scale AI has become indispensable to leading labs developing large language models. The company recently expanded its talent pool, hiring PhD scientists and senior engineers to produce premium datasets for cutting-edge AI systems. Meta’s investment will fuel further growth while maintaining Scale AI’s independence.
Recent Growth and Valuation Surge
This massive deal follows Scale AI’s $1 billion funding round last year at a $13.8 billion valuation, with participation from Amazon and Meta. The latest investment effectively doubles the company’s valuation in just one year, reflecting skyrocketing demand for high-quality AI training data.
The partnership represents a significant power play in the AI industry, combining Meta’s resources with Scale AI’s data expertise as competition in artificial intelligence reaches unprecedented levels.