Stealth AI sales startup Spara raised a $15 million seed after asking 'really smart people' what to build

Spara, an innovative AI startup focused on optimizing inbound sales, has raised $15 million in seed funding as it steps out of stealth mode. Co-founded by David Walker, the CEO, and Zander Pease, the CTO, the company aims to enhance the efficiency of sales teams through advanced conversational AI solutions. Based in New York City, Spara offers a suite of AI-driven voice, chat, and email agents designed to automate various sales functions. These include engaging prospects, qualifying leads, addressing inquiries, and scheduling meetings, all tailored to the specific sales processes and brand identities of mid-market and large enterprises. The startup is positioning itself in a rapidly evolving landscape where AI is transforming how sales are executed. Walker noted a significant shift in the field, asserting, "Outbound is dead and AI is killing it," emphasizing that traditional cold outreach methods are becoming obsolete as AI technologies streamline the process. Walker brings a wealth of experience, having co-founded and sold the real estate startup Triplemint to luxury brokerage The Agency, where he continues to serve on the board. Pease, on the other hand, previously held a senior director role at Hyperscience AI and co-founded Nomad Health. The duo, who connected in 2023 through a mutual acquaintance, spent six months conducting extensive research before settling on their business idea. They engaged in over 200 interviews with sales leaders, asking probing questions about their challenges and the future impact of AI on sales, which ultimately shaped Spara’s direction. Launched in 2024, Spara’s funding rounds included a simple agreement for future equity led by Inspired Capital and a subsequent seed round led by Radical Ventures. Additional investors included XYZ Ventures, FJ Labs, and notable individuals such as Kate Jensen from Anthropic and James Dyett from OpenAI. With the newly acquired funds, Spara plans to invest in research and development, as well as enhance its sales and marketing efforts. The startup currently employs 16 people, with a majority focused on engineering, and services clients such as banking platform Rho, restaurant software provider MarketMan, and cybersecurity training firm Jericho Security.