Stanhope AI, a startup developing artificial intelligence technology that aims to mimic the processes of the human brain, has raised $8m (£5.8m).
The company, which previously secured a £2.3m investment back in 2024, is working on its Real World Model product, which it describes as a “next-generation framework for adaptive intelligence”.
Essentially an AI model that is designed to function in a dynamic, human brain-like way beyond the language-restricted limits of current LLMs.
“We’re moving from language-based AI to intelligence that possesses the ability to act to understand its world – a system with a fundamental agency,” said Prof Rosalyn Moran, co-founder chief executive of Stanhope AI.
“Our approach doesn’t just process words, it understands context, uncertainty, and physical reality.”
In terms of application, the company believes its dynamic AI model would be well-suited to autonomous drone piloting and robotics and is currently testing its technology in both categories.
Its latest investment round was led by Frontline Ventures and included participation from Paladin Capital Group and Auxxo Female Catalyst Fund, and follow-on investment from UCL Technology Fund and MMC Ventures.
“The future of physical AI demands systems that can truly adapt in real-time. The team at Stanhope AI are bringing a unique scientific approach to deliver exactly that, and are already proving themselves in high-stakes, real-world applications,” said Zoe Chambers, a partner at Frontline Ventures.
“Their pace of execution, from academic research papers to a system that works safely at the edge, is both rare and deeply significant.”
