College Dropouts Turn AI Recruitment Startup Mercor into a $2 Billion Startup

In the tech hub of San Francisco, where startups rise and fall with the tides of innovation, Mercor has emerged as a standout player in the rapidly evolving world of generative artificial intelligence (AI). Founded just two years ago by three college dropouts—Brendan Foody, Adarsh Hiremath, and Surya Midha—the company has quickly become a key connector between specialized talent and the growing demand for AI development. Today, Mercor, a firm funded by the leading venture firm Felicis in its latest funding round, jumped its valuation to $2 billion. Such a valuation makes its young journey really impactful. Mercor's story started in early 2023, when Brendan Foody, Adarsh Hiremath, and Surya Midha, former high school classmates and debate partners, decided to take a leap of faith. Aft