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Handshake Acquires Cleanlab to Enhance Data Labeling for AI

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AI data labeling startup Handshake has acquired Cleanlab, a data label auditing startup, to enhance its data quality production for AI models.

  • Handshake: Founded in 2013 initially to aid college graduates' employment, it expanded into human data labeling to support AI model development.
  • Cleanlab: Established in 2021, specializes in algorithms for improving labeled data quality, especially without a human reviewer.
  • Acquisition Details: The acquisition is an acqui-hire, involving the key integration of 9 Cleanlab staff, including co-founders Curtis Northcutt, Jonas Mueller, and Anish Athalya, from MIT. The terms remain undisclosed.
  • Purpose: To bolster Handshake's in-house research on weak AI model points and the necessity for high-quality data production.
  • Strategic Selection: Despite multiple acquisition interests, Cleanlab chose Handshake due to its widespread use by competitors for sourcing experts.
  • Financial Notes: Cleanlab has garnered $30 million in investments. Handshake was valued at $3.3 billion in 2022, with projected significant growth in revenue.
  • Quote from Curtis Northcutt: Highlights strategic alignment by choosing the 'source' in the industry partnership, underscoring Handshake's position over competitors.