AI Startup AirOps Secures $40 Million to Navigate Shift in Online Discovery

A new startup, AirOps, has received $40 million in funding led by Greylock to help marketers adapt to the growing influence of artificial intelligence and large language models (LLMs) in how consumers find information online, signaling a major shift away from traditional search engine optimization.

Founded in early 2022, AirOps initially focused on data access for non-technical employees before pivoting to address the challenges marketers face as LLMs like ChatGPT become primary discovery tools. The company’s core product analyzes public information – including blog posts, customer testimonials, news articles, and social media content – to help brands maintain a fresh and relevant online presence. Clients currently include Monday.com, Webflow, and Ramp.

According to AirOps CEO Alex Halliday, the focus is shifting from simply recycling existing content to generating original ideas, as AI agents prioritize novel data and opinions. “The entire marketing industry is having to re-learn how to influence organic growth,” said Greylock partner Mike Duboe in a statement. This change is particularly significant as AI-driven SEO strategies continue to evolve.

AirOps aims to help marketers “add to the conversation” by creating unique, data-rich content, rather than relying on automated content generation. The company’s emergence reflects a broader trend of investment in AI-powered tools designed to help businesses navigate the changing digital landscape; yesterday, Fastbreak AI also secured $40 million in Series A funding. Officials stated that AirOps will continue to develop its platform and expand its client base in the coming months.