Friday, January 9, 2026

Where VCs See Opportunities for AI Startups Amidst OpenAI’s Dominance

In a recent discussion, Vanessa Larco, a partner at Premise and former NEA partner, predicts that 2026 will mark a significant shift towards consumer AI. She envisions “concierge-like” services that transform how consumers engage online. A key question is the fate of established consumer apps like WebMD and TripAdvisor—will they remain standalone, or will they be integrated into advanced AI platforms like ChatGPT and Meta AI? Larco emphasizes the potential for startups to explore AI-driven niches within this evolving landscape. In the conversation with TechCrunch’s Rebecca Bellan on the Equity podcast, Larco highlights the revival of consumer-focused investments and identifies untapped opportunities in the AI realm. For more insights, listeners can subscribe to Equity on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, and more. Follow them on X and Threads at @EquityPod for updates.

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