Founded by Aaron Cannon and Michael Hess in 2022, Outset’s platform allows researchers to conduct interviews using AI moderation.

Researchers using the platform can set up interview guides, employ agentic video interviews and usability testing and recruit participants using panels or their own user bases. Customers include Microsoft, Nestle and Hubspot.

American venture capital firm 8VC led the Series A funding.

In a statement posted on its website, Outset said it would use the investment to expand its go-to-market team to help its customer base adopt AI-moderated research and increase the size of its engineering team.

“AI shouldn’t replace human connection — rather, it should deepen our understanding of humans so we can build products, services, and experiences that are more human than ever,” said the co-founders in the post.

“As we embark in this next chapter, we are thrilled to partner with 8VC as well as Y Combinator, Adverb Ventures, Future back forward by Bain, AltCap, Genius Ventures, Rebel Fund, and many other incredible investors. We’re also eternally grateful for the support from the broader research and startup community along the way.”