New data from Kruze Consulting Shows Startups’ Evolving Use of AI Tools and Commoditization of Large Language Models – 70% pay for AI, Average Monthly AI Spend Up 230% YoY

SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The latest report from Kruze Consulting reveals a pivotal shift in how venture-backed startups are adopting artificial intelligence. What began as an AI “gold rush” is now maturing into a phase of strategic adoption, characterized by widespread integration of AI tools and the commoditization of Large Language Models. The data comes from over 1,000 venture-backed startups, with roughly 70% of startups in Kruze’s sample paying for at least one AI tool.

“As AI becomes a major line item for startups, founders are constantly evaluating how AI can optimize their operations—whether to boost developer productivity, reduce hiring costs, or streamline marketing tasks,” said Healy Jones, VP of Kruze Consulting. “Our unique dataset highlights the evolving strategies early adopters are using as they refine their AI investments.”

SaaS Leads AI Adoption
The report highlights notable differences in AI adoption rates by industry. SaaS startups are at the forefront, with 80% already leveraging AI tools to enhance products and streamline operations. In contrast, biotech and healthcare startups show slower adoption due to the highly specialized nature of their work, which limits the applicability of general-purpose AI tools.

The Rise of AI Commoditization 
With the majority of startups already paying for general-purpose LLMs, Kruze’s data signals the next phase of AI adoption: commoditization. As startups increasingly integrate multiple AI tools into workflows, switching between models from OpenAI, Anthropic, and others has become seamless and routine. The report finds price competition is a major driver, with startups rapidly shifting between providers when more affordable options become available.

Key Players in the AI Market: OpenAI Leads, But Faces Competition
The report confirms OpenAI’s stronghold as the top LLM provider, with 65% of startups in Kruze’s sample paying for its services. However, OpenAI’s dominance is being challenged as Anthropic and newcomer Perplexity gain ground, following the launch of competitive models in early 2024. This shift underscores the increasing ease with which startups can transition between providers and highlights the growing competition in the AI space.

AI Spend Continues to Grow
As startups deepen their reliance on AI, Kruze’s data reveals a notable increase in AI spending. The average monthly spend per startup has risen from $2,000 in early 2023 to $5,000–$6,000 in 2024. While affordable subscription models like OpenAI’s ChatGPT remain popular, the number of seats and the use of API-based solutions are driving AI spend upward.

The Future of Innovation in Tech
The commoditization of AI marks a new chapter in the startup ecosystem. With LLMs now more accessible, Kruze anticipates that innovation will increasingly focus on applying these tools to solve real-world problems. For startups, this shift presents new opportunities to create value, while AI providers are challenged to differentiate and innovate beyond basic language processing.

To access the full report and learn more about Kruze Consulting, visit: https://kruzeconsulting.com/blog/how-startups-using-ai/.

About Kruze Consulting
Kruze is a leading provider of accounting, tax, CFO, and finance advice to over 800+ startups across the US and has been named as one of the fastest-growing CPA firms in the country. Kruze’s clients have raised over $15 billion in venture capital and are market-leading Saas, software, eCommerce, biotech, and FinTech startups. Founded in 2012 by Vanessa Kruze, a Big Four alum, startup controller, and CPA, the firm manages accounting, tax, finance, and HR for fast-growing startups. Everything including interim CFO Consulting, financial modeling, startup tax returns, venture debt consulting, 409A valuations, bookkeeping, AR/AP, and early-stage fundraising advice can be seamlessly managed by the professionals at Kruze. Visit https://kruzeconsulting.com/ to learn more.

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SOURCE Kruze Consulting