AI is transforming all industries and cybersecurity is not alone. It is disrupting cybersecurity by enhancing threat detection, automating responses, and predicting cyber risks. AI-powered security systems improve resilience against evolving cyber threats, reducing response times and human error. While several companies play a role in this segment, Nisien.AI is leveraging AI to combat online harms.
Cardiff-based AI startup has secured investment from the British Business Bank’s £130 million Investment Fund for Wales. The funding, facilitated through Foresight Group and the Development Bank of Wales, marks a major milestone in the company’s rapid ascent within the AI sector.
Investment to drive growth and expansion
The latest investment will enable Nisien.AI to accelerate research and development, expand its workforce, and scale its innovative solutions. Currently employing 14 professionals, the company is set to make strategic hires and further refine its AI-driven products.
The new investment will enable the company to continue to innovate and scale, making key hires and accelerating R&D to develop and bring to market novel and disruptive products, like its maiden revenue-generating product HERO Detect, which deploys AI algorithms to accurately detect and classify harms across online platforms in real-time.
Alongside the investment, Foresight has introduced an experienced Chairman, Tony Stockham, to the business. Tony has worked with Foresight in the past to scale technology businesses and was formerly both an academic and successful entrepreneur in the field of AI.
The team behind Nisien.AI
Founded in 2023 by Cardiff University professors Matt Williams (Criminology) and Pete Burnap (Data Science, AI), Nisien.AI is pioneering AI-driven solutions to detect and mitigate online harms. Their mission is to foster healthier online interactions and protect freedom of expression without resorting to censorship.
The founding duo will continue as Chief Science Officer and Chief AI Officer respectively, while retaining their academic roles at Cardiff University. They are supported by an experienced executive team, including CEO Lee Gainer (former CFO of Wealthify), COO Dean Doyle (formerly of HateLab), and Head of Engineering Rhodri Hewitson (formerly of AM Digital).
Innovative solutions for online safety
Its flagship product, HERO Detect, is an AI-powered system that classifies and responds to online harm in real-time. By leveraging scientifically informed technology, the company aims to enhance content moderation while preserving open and constructive dialogue.
Beyond detection, Nisien.AI is developing new AI tools to support social media platforms and brands in retaining users and maintaining vibrant online communities. Their unique approach ensures that online spaces remain safe and engaging without the pitfalls of overzealous content censorship.
Lee Gainer, CEO at Nisien.AI added: “It’s an incredibly exciting time to be growing a challenger business in this sector. With the Online Safety Act being implemented soon, we believe the growth potential for Nisien.AI is huge. With the support of Foresight, the Development Bank of Wales and the British Business Bank, we look forward to accelerating the great start the business has made since its formation and continuing to grow, creating sustainable new tech jobs here in Cardiff.”
Shaping the future of digital interactions
With fresh investment, cutting-edge technology, and a visionary leadership team, Nisien.AI is on a trajectory to redefine how digital platforms manage online interactions, fostering a safer and more inclusive internet for all. With key customers including some of the world’s largest social media platforms and global brands, Nisien.AI is well-positioned to make a substantial impact on the digital ecosystem.
Investors’ views
Ruby Godrich, Investment Manager at Foresight commented: “We are excited to be working with the Development Bank of Wales on our first joint investment into Nisien AI. We are keen to see the improvements Nisien.AI will provide to online safety and look forward to working together with the Nisien team.”
Bethan Bannister, Senior Investment Manager at the British Business Bank, said: “The Investment Fund for Wales was established to provide the financial backing that pioneering and ambitious companies like Nisien.AI so often need, and we are pleased to support their growth plans as they continue to innovate and scale. The company has certainly established itself as one-to-watch on the Welsh tech scene and we’re looking forward to tracking their success as they continue on their journey.”
Hannah Mallen, Assistant Investment Executive at the Development Bank of Wales, said: “Nisien is a great example of a Welsh business working at the cutting edge of a rapidly developing field. Part of our aim at the Development Bank is to support businesses in Wales with strong growth potential and a positive social impact. Nisien’s work will be increasingly important in the rapidly evolving and increasingly topical world of social media, and we’re glad to have supported them during this round. We look forward to working with Foresight to support the business.”
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