PitchBook: US venture funding hits $412.7B in first half as AI deals dominate

Venture capital investments in the U.S. skyrocketed to $412.7 billion in the first half of 2026, a nearly 30% increase compared to all of last year's funding. This surge is largely driven by a handful of massive deals focused on artificial intelligence, highlighting the sector's growing importance and investor enthusiasm. The dominance of AI in venture funding underscores its transformative potential and the sector's ability to attract unprecedented levels of capital, signaling a pivotal moment for tech innovation and economic growth.