The 2025 Disruptor 50 list hits record highs in AI startup valuations and funding.
The top five companies combined are valued at nearly $500 billion—more than every Disruptor 50 list from the past 12 years combined.
One company recently scored the largest VC round ever. AI startups are pouring cash into acquisitions as they rapidly scale generative AI business models. 
The list isn’t just chatbots. Winners span sectors like agriculture, autonomous transportation, health care, and defense tech—the new No. 1 disruptor is from defense.
AI’s new era took full hold in 2023 and keeps driving growth. Twenty companies are newcomers this year. Another 19 debuted in either 2023 or 2024. Embracing generative AI is now critical to making the list.
All told, the Disruptor 50 startups have raised $127 billion with a total valuation near $800 billion. The AI arms race is fueling a venture bonanza—and redefining what it means to be a tech disruptor.
