More than 100 venture capital-backed startups achieved unicorn status in 2025, fueled by investor enthusiasm for artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies, according to data from Crunchbase and PitchBook. While AI dominated the list, companies in sectors such as satellite technology and blockchain also secured valuations exceeding $1 billion.

Among the newly minted unicorns is Unconventional AI, founded in 2025 by Naveen Rao, formerly the head of AI at Databricks. The company, focused on developing energy-efficient computing solutions for AI applications, raised $475 million in seed funding from investors including Andreessen Horowitz and Lightspeed, Rao told Bloomberg. Unconventional AI is currently valued at $4.5 billion. The company's technology aims to address the growing energy demands of AI, a significant concern as AI models become increasingly complex.

Heven Aerotech, a startup established in 2019, also joined the unicorn club in December. The company specializes in hydrogen-powered drones and recently completed a $100 million Series B funding round, bringing its total capital raised to $115.2 million. Investors in Heven Aerotech include IonQ, according to PitchBook. The company's drones are designed to offer a more sustainable alternative to traditional fuel-powered drones, potentially impacting industries such as logistics and surveillance.

Saviynt, a cybersecurity company specializing in identity management, also achieved unicorn status. Founded in 2010, Saviynt raised $700 million in a Series B round, bringing its total funding to $740 million. The company's platform helps organizations manage and secure access to critical applications and data, addressing the growing need for robust cybersecurity solutions.

The surge in unicorn creation reflects the ongoing investor interest in innovative technologies and the potential for rapid growth in emerging markets. The list of new unicorns is expected to continue to expand throughout the year, highlighting the dynamic nature of the venture capital landscape. TechCrunch will continue to update its tracking of these companies.