What one needs to build a tech unicorn: A dream, some employees and lots of AI hype
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The average number of employees at new tech unicorns has drastically dropped, with 2026's average standing at just 172 in the US, amid a surge in AI-related startups and venture capital investment. This trend is driven by the desire for leaner headcounts and big VC funds' eagerness to invest early in promising companies.
The number of employees at new tech unicorns has plummeted, with the average headcount in 2026 standing at 323 globally and 172 in the US. According to PitchBook data, this is a significant drop from 1,128 in 2023. The trend is largely driven by the AI boom, with venture capital firms eager to invest in startups with potential. Companies like Safe Superintelligence, co-founded by OpenAI's former chief scientist, have achieved remarkable valuations with minimal staff. Investors are backing companies created by former employees of top AI labs, with record-breaking seed rounds and valuations. The desire for leaner headcounts and early investment in promising companies is fueling this trend.
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