IBM Launches Watsonx AI Labs in NYC and Acquires Seek AI

IBM has announced the launch of Watsonx AI Labs, a new developer-first innovation hub located in New York City. The lab is designed to accelerate AI adoption at scale by connecting IBM's enterprise resources with the next generation of AI developers. The goal is to create breakthrough AI applications for businesses.

Key Details of Watsonx AI Labs

• Location: The lab is based in Manhattan at IBM’s new offices at One Madison.
• Focus: It will serve as a collaborative hub for IBM researchers and engineers to co-create and advance agentic AI solutions.
• Collaborations: The lab will work with startups, scale-ups, and large enterprises to help clients unlock real-world value from AI.
• Domain-Specific Solutions: The lab will focus on solving complex enterprise challenges, including customer service, supply-chain optimization, cybersecurity, and responsible AI governance.

New York City as a Tech Hub

IBM aims to tap into New York City’s thriving tech ecosystem by:

• Attracting local talent.
• Collaborating with universities and research institutions.
• Supporting local entrepreneurs.

Over the next five years, local startups developing AI solutions at the lab will have access to:

• Technical experts and mentorship.
• Potential investment from IBM Ventures and its $500M Enterprise AI Venture Fund.

Seek AI Acquisition

IBM also announced the acquisition of Seek AI, a New York City-based startup specializing in AI agents for enterprise data. Seek AI’s technology will be integrated into Watsonx AI Labs to enhance IBM’s capabilities in harnessing enterprise data.

Key Quotes

• Ritika Gunnar, General Manager, Data & AI, IBM:

  "This isn’t your typical corporate lab. Watsonx AI Labs is where the best AI developers gain access to world-class engineers and resources to build applications that will reshape AI for the enterprise."

• Julie Samuels, President and CEO of Tech:NYC:

  "IBM’s launch of Watsonx AI Labs signals a transformative investment in New York’s innovation ecosystem."

• Sarah Nagy, CEO of Seek AI:

  "Building a foundational part of Watsonx AI Labs allows us to pair our expertise with IBM’s engineering depth to solve clients’ toughest AI challenges."

Conclusion

IBM’s launch of Watsonx AI Labs and the acquisition of Seek AI underscore its commitment to advancing AI innovation and strengthening New York City’s position as a global tech hub.