While still in its early stages, AI has been around for quite some time. Despite its impressive capabilities, there remain areas that require substantial improvement. Handling unexpected or hypothetical scenarios, creative thinking, and responding effectively to new situations remain challenges. The key lies in using the right tool for the right job. Assuming high-quality data, AI excels at automating repetitive tasks, swiftly solving complex problems, and making precise predictions. These strengths make it an ideal fit for industries such as e-commerce where high-quality data can be efficiently converted into useful and relevant information, saving time, offering new insights, and increasing profits.
Today, London-based, Vortex IQ, an innovative AI-powered automation platform for e-commerce, has announced the successful completion of a $1M funding round led by AI VC- Sure Valley Ventures, with significant participation from Techstars, the world’s most active pre-seed investor. This influx of capital marks a pivotal moment in Vortex IQ’s mission to transform e-commerce operations through advanced AI solutions.
AI efficiency and new insights
Founded by Susant Kumar Patro, Vortex IQ is strategically positioned to capitalise on the burgeoning demand for intelligent automation in the e-commerce sector. The platform offers AI-driven diagnostics and automation tools that provide actionable insights and seamless implementation, enabling businesses to leverage AI for enhanced efficiency and improved Customer Lifetime Value (CLV).
Building on success
Vortex IQ’s customer portfolio already includes industry giants such as Nvidia, Krispy Kreme, British Airways – Avios, and Harley Davidson, highlighting its robust credibility and market penetration. This latest investment will be used to expand Vortex IQ’s market presence in the US and Europe, bolstering its sales and marketing teams, and hiring additional AI specialists.
The company’s AI technology helps merchants reduce operational downtime by over 40%, ensuring seamless and secure e-commerce management. As businesses, agencies, and developers increasingly seek tools to streamline staging, coding, data backup, and migration, Vortex IQ’s solutions are becoming indispensable.
Continued momentum
This funding round follows Vortex IQ’s successful participation in Techstars’ Spring 2024 cohort, a period marked by significant momentum. The company has doubled its customer base organically over the past six months and formed strategic partnerships with BigCommerce and Adobe. More than one hundred merchants have adopted Vortex IQ’s AI-automated staging products, Staging Pro for BigCommerce and Dry Run Pro for Adobe Commerce and Shopify.
Additionally, Vortex IQ has launched an AI DevOps and analytics tool for merchants, with Krispy Kreme currently piloting the programme in its UK and Ireland e-commerce operations and plans for a global rollout by the end of 2024.
Susant Kumar Patro, founder, and CEO of Vortex IQ, brings nearly two decades of experience in e-commerce and web development. His previous venture, 247-Commerce, is an award-winning Adobe Gold Partner, and his strategic leadership has driven innovations across over five hundred prestigious brands.
“At Vortex IQ, our mission is to simplify and enhance the e-commerce workflow through innovative AI solutions. By providing e-commerce teams with cutting-edge productivity tools, we help businesses to prioritise their customers, enhance efficiency, and drive profitability,” said Patro. “This transformative approach not only ensures superior business outcomes but marks the advent of the next era in retail. The future of commerce is undeniably intertwined with the evolution of AI and automation, propelling the industry towards unprecedented heights. We are delighted to be working with Sure Valley Ventures, one of Europe’s leading AI VCs, and Techstars, to accelerate our growth and deliver on our mission.”
Investor comments
Barry Downes, Managing Partner at Sure Valley Ventures, expressed strong confidence in Vortex IQ’s potential: “Vortex IQ is poised to become a leading player in the e-commerce industry with its AI-driven automation platform. The Company has seen rapid growth in the last six months and is led by a highly impressive repeat founder who has a strong understanding of e-commerce complexities. We are excited to back Susant and his team, as they continue to innovate and disrupt the market.”
Sarah Bain, Managing Director at Techstars, echoed these sentiments: “Vortex IQ is well on its way to transform the e-commerce industry with its AI technology. Susant is an experienced founder that listens to customers and deeply understands the pain points of e-commerce. In the three months that Vortex IQ participated in Techstars Spring 2024 cohort, the company has grown its customer base and is well-positioned for continued expansion as the digital marketplace remains dominant.”
