Meta Platforms Eyes Nat Friedman and Daniel Gross to Boost AI Efforts

Meta Platforms, the company behind Facebook, is in discussions to bring on Nat Friedman, the former CEO of GitHub, to strengthen its artificial intelligence (AI) efforts. This news comes from a report which spoke to someone familiar with the matter.

Meta is also reportedly talking to Daniel Gross, who is Friedman’s partner in their investment firm NFDG. The company may want both of them to join its growing AI team. The company is considering buying part of the NFDG investment fund.

These efforts are part of Meta’s bigger push to stay competitive in the AI space. Tech companies around the world are racing to lead in AI, and Meta is investing heavily. Just last week, it announced a $14.8 billion investment in Scale AI, its second-biggest investment ever.

Meta also brought on Alexandr Wang, the CEO of Scale AI, to help lead a new team focused on “superintelligence.” Friedman is not new to Meta. He is already part of the company’s external Advisory Group, which gives input on technology and product development. So far, Meta hasn’t officially commented on the talks.

Meta's interest in Friedman and Gross is not limited to their individual expertise. The company is also reportedly considering acquiring part of their NFDG fund, which could provide Meta with access to a portfolio of AI startups and technologies. This acquisition would not only enhance Meta's AI capabilities but also position the company as a leader in the AI industry. The potential acquisition of the NFDG fund is part of Meta's broader strategy to stay ahead in the AI race and maintain its competitive edge in the technology sector.

The potential hiring of Friedman and Gross and the acquisition of the NFDG fund are significant developments for Meta. These moves demonstrate the company's commitment to advancing AI technologies and staying competitive in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. By bringing on board Friedman and Gross and acquiring part of their NFDG fund, Meta aims to enhance its AI capabilities and position itself as a leader in the AI industry. The company's recent investments in AI, including the $14.8 billion investment in Scale AI, underscore its commitment to advancing AI technologies and staying ahead in the AI race.