New AI initiative will co-create gen AI solutions with IBM clients, nurture NYC talent, advance enterprise AI implementations
IBM unveiled watsonx AI Labs, a new innovation hub in Manhattan designed to empower developers and accelerate the enterprise adoption of AI. Built for the next generation of AI builders, the lab aims to connect IBM’s deep enterprise expertise with the fast-moving world of AI development to create cutting-edge, domain-specific AI applications.
Situated at IBM’s new offices at One Madison, watsonx AI Labs is the latest addition to IBM’s global network of engineering labs. This new facility brings together top researchers and engineers in a collaborative environment focused on building agentic AI—AI that acts independently with purpose—while delivering real-world value for businesses across industries.
By actively engaging with startups, scale-ups, and large enterprises, the lab will serve as a catalyst for turning innovative AI ideas into scalable business solutions. It also strengthens IBM’s commitment to supporting New York City’s fast-growing AI ecosystem.
New York City, now recognized as a global AI hotspot, is home to over 2,000 AI startups and saw a 25% growth in its AI workforce between 2022 and 2023, according to Tech:NYC. Since 2019, more than 1,000 AI-focused companies in the city have collectively raised $27 billion in funding, highlighting the region’s vibrant innovation climate.
In a move that reinforces its dedication to nurturing local innovation, IBM also announced it will acquire expertise and license technology from Seek AI, a New York-based startup known for building AI agents that unlock the power of enterprise data. Seek AI’s team and technologies will play a critical role in establishing the foundation for watsonx AI Labs.
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“This isn’t your typical corporate lab. watsonx AI Labs is where the best AI developers gain access to world-class engineers and resources and build new businesses and applications that will reshape AI for the enterprise,” said Ritika Gunnar, General Manager, Data & AI, IBM. “By anchoring this mission in New York City, we are investing in a diverse, world‑class talent pool and a vibrant community whose innovations have long shaped the tech landscape.”
“IBM’s launch of watsonx AI Labs signals a transformative investment in New York’s innovation ecosystem. By bringing together world-class engineering talent, emerging startups, and deep enterprise expertise right here in the heart of the city, this initiative strengthens New York’s position as a global hub for responsible and cutting-edge AI development,” said Julie Samuels, President and CEO of Tech:NYC. “It’s a win for our tech sector, communities, workforce, and economy. We’re thrilled to see IBM betting big on the extraordinary talent and entrepreneurial spirit that make this city so unique.”
watsonx AI Labs will draw on New York City’s diverse and dynamic technology community. The lab plans to collaborate with local universities and research institutions, support regional entrepreneurs, and recruit top-tier local talent. Over the next five years, startups that successfully launch AI enterprise solutions through the lab will benefit from technical guidance, business mentorship, and the potential for funding through IBM Ventures and its $500 million Enterprise AI Venture Fund.
“Building a foundational part of watsonx AI Labs allows us to pair our expertise building data agents with IBM’s engineering depth to solve clients’ toughest AI challenges,” said Sarah Nagy, CEO of Seek AI. “We’re excited to tackle these challenges here in New York City, where Seek AI was founded and the AI talent and innovation ecosystem is thriving.”
The lab’s core focus will be on the co-creation of AI solutions tailored to specific industries, addressing complex enterprise challenges such as supply chain optimization, customer support transformation, cybersecurity, responsible AI governance, and advancing open-source AI frameworks.
