Cluely Raises $15M from a16z to Expand Controversial AI Tool

Cluely, a San Francisco-based AI startup known for its controversial positioning as a tool to help users cheat on job interviews, exams, and sales calls, has raised $15 million in a Series A funding round led by Andreessen Horowitz. Founded earlier this year by 21-year-old Roy Lee and Neel Shanmugam—both suspended from Columbia University for developing an undetectable AI tool aiding cheating—Cluely has since rebranded to emphasize its role as an "invisible" productivity assistant that provides real-time screen-based solutions without alerting others. The company, valued at approximately $120 million according to some investors, plans aggressive marketing efforts including hiring 50 interns to produce frequent TikTok content to reach 1 billion views across social platforms. Cluely’s founder Lee is noted for a provocative social media presence and viral videos, such as one depicting a failed attempt to use the AI during a date, which have helped build significant brand awareness. Despite its notoriety, Cluely is reportedly profitable and continues to attract investor interest, with original backers Abstract Ventures and Susa Ventures participating in the new round. A recent planned large party after Y Combinator’s AI Startup School was shut down by police due to an overwhelming turnout, illustrating the startup’s growing cultural footprint.