Hightouch raises $80M on a $1.2B valuation for marketing tools powered by AI

In the past decade, companies like Segment revolutionized how organizations utilized APIs to integrate data from various apps to enhance marketing strategies. Now, Hightouch, a startup founded by a former engineering manager at Segment, is securing $80 million in funding to advance its platform. This platform enables sales, marketing, and customer service teams to synchronize data warehouses and other locations using AI agents to streamline processes and create tailored experiences.

Leading the Series C funding round is Sapphire Ventures, with participation from NVC, Amplify Ventures, ICONIQ Growth, Bain Capital Ventures, and Y Combinator. This funding propels Hightouch to a post-money valuation of $1.2 billion, doubling its valuation from the previous round in 2023.

The funding will support the ongoing development of Hightouch’s technology, as well as facilitate business expansion and hiring efforts.

Tejas Manohar, co-CEO of Hightouch, along with co-founders Kashish Gupta (co-CEO) and Josh Curl (CTO), recognized the need to go beyond traditional API integrations while working at Segment. This led them to establish Hightouch, focusing on simplifying data utilization for marketing, sales, and customer service purposes.

Hightouch’s key offerings include its customer data platform (CDP) product, designed for both technical and non-technical users. This product leverages machine learning to facilitate the use of data from data warehouses in various business functions.

Additionally, Hightouch offers AI Decisioning, a newer product that employs machine learning and automation to optimize campaigns based on specific goals.

The interest in AI Decisioning from existing and new customers prompted Hightouch to pursue the Series C funding round, despite being financially stable. The product’s ability to enhance customer experiences and increase revenue has resonated with companies across various industries.

Hightouch’s success in the AI space has attracted clients like Spotify, PetSmart, Tripadvisor, and Grammarly. The company’s commitment to leveraging AI for improved customer engagement and revenue growth has positioned it as a leader in the industry.

With previous fundraising rounds in 2020 and 2023, Hightouch has demonstrated consistent growth and innovation in the data integration and AI sectors.