In recent years, workflow automation platforms have become a large subsector within AI, with startups offering tools that can plan and execute tasks.
The focus of these tools is rapidly shifting towards the physical and science sectors, experts say. Spurred on by advancements in computing, scientists are using AI as a discovery tool in fields from clean energy materials to medical and therapeutics development.
According to Sifted data, European advanced materials startups have raised €3bn this year already — a significant increase from the €1.6bn raised in the whole of last year. Meanwhile, drug discovery startups have raised €4bn this year, on course to overtake the €4.7bn raised last year.
Many of these startups are already using AI and investor interest will likely increase as the technology develops.
Sifted sat down with experts to unpack how AI is being used in real-world environments — from science to computing — and what the future of these sectors looks like. Moving into the physical world
