What began as a Harvard Law student’s curiosity in a trademark class has grown into a fast-rising AI startup tackling the $3 trillion global counterfeiting industry. Mark Lee, who once expected to become a lawyer, co-founded MarqVision in 2021 after realizing that computer vision could be deployed to curb the surge of counterfeit products, a problem that worsened during the COVID-19 era. The Los Angeles-based company has since carved out a niche using AI to protect brands worldwide.
Now, MarqVision has raised $48 million in a Series B funding round, bringing its total funding to $90 million. The financing, led by Peak XV Partners with participation from Salesforce Ventures, HSG, Coral Capital, and Y Combinator’s Michael Seibel, will fund AI innovation, enterprise readiness, and global expansion. With operations already spanning the U.S., Korea, China, and Europe, the company is now entering Japan, underscoring its international growth strategy.
MarqVision has rapidly scaled its revenues, surpassing $20 million in annual recurring revenue within four years while serving over 350 clients in industries including fashion, gaming, pharmaceuticals, and consumer electronics. By helping brands recover lost sales and manage their digital presence, the platform is delivering tangible financial impact — with many clients reporting a 5% sales lift. Lee has set an ambitious target of $100 million in ARR by mid-2027, emphasizing customer experience and a scalable AI-driven foundation as key drivers.
The startup’s evolution reflects a broader industry shift, where AI is transforming traditional services into scalable, software-like platforms. Beyond detecting counterfeits, MarqVision now offers brand protection, control, and intelligence, positioning itself as an AI-led services leader. With top-tier investors backing its vision, the company aims to become the global backbone for intellectual property and brand professionals navigating the complexities of online commerce.
