Databricks, the San Francisco-based data and artificial intelligence giant, has acquired a minority stake in Indicium, a consultancy specializing in AI and analytics. The deal, announced on Tuesday, marks the company’s first investment in a Latin American-founded startup, although the financial details were not disclosed. The investment was made through Databricks Ventures, the firm’s dedicated venture capital arm.
The move highlights Databricks’ growing interest in Latin America as it continues to expand globally. The company, valued at $100 billion earlier this year, recently broadened its presence in the region with the expansion of its Sao Paulo office and the opening of a new branch in Mexico. Industry watchers also see the investment as a sign of Databricks’ accelerating growth ahead of a possible public listing.
Indicium, founded in 2017 in Florianopolis, Brazil, shifted its headquarters to New York in 2023 to strengthen its U.S. operations. The consultancy, which has about 450 employees, works with businesses seeking to achieve analytical and AI maturity. Last year, the U.S. accounted for 30% of its revenue, with projections to increase that share to 60% by 2026. The startup also secured $40 million in early funding in 2024 and has maintained a partnership with Databricks since its inception.
Databricks described Indicium as a “high-impact partner” with strong technical and strategic capabilities. Indicium co-founder Isabela Blasi stressed that while technology is vital, guided expertise is crucial for companies to fully embrace AI. The partnership is expected to deepen both companies’ reach in the fast-growing AI and data analytics ecosystem across the Americas