Paris-based AI voice technology startup Gradium has expanded its seed funding round to a total of $100 million, with Nvidia joining as a new major investor. Originally launched from stealth mode in December with $70 million in seed funding, the company aims to use this capital injection to establish a presence in the Bay Area, tapping into the region’s rich AI ecosystem and talent pool. This move highlights Gradium’s ambition to compete globally, particularly in the U.S. market dominated by AI leaders such as Anthropic, Google, Meta, and OpenAI.

Founded as a spinout from the French AI lab Kyutai, Gradium was co-founded by Neil Zeghidour, a prominent AI researcher with experience at Google Brain, DeepMind, and Facebook. The startup focuses on developing audio models that deliver real-time, low-latency AI voices, designed to eliminate the delays that often hinder natural conversation flow in AI voice agents. This technical innovation positions Gradium as a strong contender in the emerging market for advanced AI-generated voice technology.

Gradium faces competition from established players like ElevenLabs, which was valued at $11 billion earlier this year, and major tech companies that develop voice AI models, such as Google with its Gemini project. Despite these challenges, Gradium has achieved early traction, securing significant customers including the French automotive giant Renault. This early adoption suggests confidence in Gradium’s technology and its potential applications across industries.

The company’s strategic decision to open a Bay Area office underscores its commitment to scaling operations and enhancing its competitiveness worldwide. By situating itself near other AI innovators and investors, Gradium is positioning to accelerate development and attract top-tier talent. The substantial seed round and Nvidia’s backing reflect strong investor belief in Gradium’s vision to advance the capabilities of AI voice technology.