Artificial intelligence (AI)
Artificial intelligence uses computers and machines to mimic the capabilities of the human mind, with particular emphasis on problem solving and decision making. It does this by using algorithms and iterative processing to find patterns in databases, sorting through enormous amounts of data infinitely faster than a human being ever could. By identifying these patterns, the AI learns to make intelligent decisions and predictions.
Most examples of AI – such as self-driving cars or chess-playing computers – rely heavily on machine learning and natural language processing.
Machine learning
Machine learning is a subset of AI that identifies repeating patterns in databases to make informed decisions without being given explicit instructions on how to do this, although it still requires some human intervention to tell if these decisions make sense.
Netflix's recommendations are an example of machine learning. By collating your watch history with that of other users, Netflix's machine-learning algorithms learn about your preferences and suggest new shows accordingly. Spotify does the same thing.
Deep learning – a term often used interchangeably with machine learning – is a subset of machine learning, with the difference that deep-learning algorithms are structured to create artificial neural networks capable of learning from data, making predictions and determining on their own whether or not their predictions are accurate. The most human-like examples of AI are powered by deep learning.
Why invest in AI?
With the exponential evolution of technology and its integration into basically every industry worldwide, the prevalence of AI and machine learning is only set to grow. The UK AI market is worth more than £16.9 billion, according to the US International Trade Administration, and is expected to grow to £803.7 billion by 2035. The biggest players in tech, from Apple to Microsoft, Amazon to Facebook, are investing in building their AI capabilities; 'In the long run, we're evolving in computing from a "mobile-first" to an "AI-first" world,' Google CEO Sundar Pichai announced back in 2016. If you're looking to invest in startups, this is the ideal time to consider AI as part of a diverse portfolio.
As well as pure AI businesses, it's likely that you will see more and more companies incorporating AI into their operations – for instance, a healthcare company might offer practical treatments while using AI to help diagnose its patients.
Why invest with SyndicateRoom?
SyndicateRoom gives investors access to growing businesses across many different sectors, including AI and machine learning. Some recent startups our investors backed are MNai, a business insights platform powered by AI and machine learning, and infloAi, which gives companies a sustainable way to monetise their online presence by providing curated digital content. See also BKwai, Kuano, Action.aim Wild.ai and Note Taking Express on our startups page.
Our Access EIS fund builds a diversified startup portfolio for you by co-investing with experienced angel investors. It aims to build a portfolio of at least 50 companies for each investor to further mitigate risk, and to replicate annual market growth in the UK startup sector.
What SyndicateRoom offers:
A data-driven approach to venture capital investing that aims to minimise risk.
Access to a larger portion of the startup market through co-investment with experienced business angels.
Generous tax reliefs as part of the EIS scheme for qualifying investors.
Low minimum investment of £5,000.
SyndicateRoom is FREE to join
With SyndicateRoom you gain access to invest alongside professional investors receiving the same share class and same share price.
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