AI-Powered Market Research Startup, Cashew, Emerges as Cost-Effective Alternative
AI
Artificial Intelligence
Market Research
Startups
TechCrunch Disrupt
Canada
Automation
8
Data Democratization
Media Hype
6/10
Real Impact
8/10
What is the Viqus Verdict?
We evaluate each news story based on its real impact versus its media hype to offer a clear and objective perspective.
AI Analysis:
While AI market research is gaining traction, Cashew's focus on affordability and speed, coupled with its strategic targeting, suggests a genuinely disruptive force with significant long-term potential, exceeding current media hype.
Article Summary
Cashew Research is tackling the $90 billion market research industry with an AI-driven approach. Founded in 2023, the company utilizes large language models (LLMs) alongside human data collection to create bespoke market research plans and surveys for brands. Unlike relying solely on recycled data from the internet, Cashew generates fresh, human-sourced data, targeting specific client inquiries. The company’s competitive advantage lies in its ability to automate traditionally time-consuming research processes, drastically reducing costs and timelines – a key frustration for many brands. The startup was recently chosen for TechCrunch’s Startup Battlefield competition in 2025 and won the enterprise stage pitch competition at TechCrunch Disrupt. Cashew’s business model, fueled by a $1.5 million pre-seed round, centers on creating a database of anonymized client data to enhance future research projects. The company is strategically targeting the consumer packaged goods sector, particularly food and beverage, and anticipates expanding its reach through a seed round planned for early 2026, aiming to raise up to $5 million. Cashew's focus on affordability and speed positions it as a viable option for smaller and medium-sized brands that previously couldn’t afford traditional research services.Key Points
- Cashew Research is using AI to offer custom market research plans and surveys, reducing the cost and time associated with traditional research.
- The company's approach involves collecting fresh, human-sourced data through surveys, utilizing LLMs to analyze and summarize the findings.
- Cashew’s innovative business model, including data anonymization and database creation, enhances the company's competitive advantage and future growth potential.