EdgeRunner AI
Overview
EdgeRunner AI is a Seattle-based startup specializing in domain-specific, air-gapped, on-device AI technology primarily for military applications. The company was co-founded by Tyler Xuan Saltsman and Colton Malkerson. Since its inception, EdgeRunner AI has raised a total of $17.5 million in funding, including a recent $12 million Series A round led by Madrona Ventures, with participation from Four Rivers Ventures, HP Tech Ventures, and Alumni Ventures.
Recent Developments
- May 2025: EdgeRunner AI announced the closure of a $12M Series A funding led by Madrona Ventures, bringing their total funding to $17.5M. The funds will advance the development of domain-specific AI agents and expand their team.
- April 2025: Designated as an "Awardable" vendor for the Department of Defense's Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace, making its products accessible for DoD critical missions.
- April 2025: EdgeRunner AI signed a strategic partnership with Second Front Systems to deploy military-grade AI agents at the tactical edge, enhancing real-time decision-making capabilities in communication-denied environments.
- February 2025: Jay Yonamine was appointed as the Chief Product Officer, bringing extensive experience in consumer and enterprise AI solutions.
- January 2025: Participated in key defense and AI conferences, showcasing partnerships with significant tech firms like Intel to further their AI platform's capabilities.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2024 |
| Headquarters | Seattle, Washington, USA |
| Founders | Tyler Xuan Saltsman, Colton Malkerson |
| Revenue | Not disclosed |
| Profits | Not disclosed |
| Key Investors | Madrona Ventures, Four Rivers Ventures, HP Tech Ventures, Alumni Ventures |
| Industry | Defense, Artificial Intelligence, Technology |
| Number of Employees | Approximately 21 employees |
Early History
EdgeRunner AI was founded in 2024, with a focus on developing AI technologies tailored to military needs. The co-founders, Tyler Xuan Saltsman, a former Army officer, and Colton Malkerson, who has experience in enterprise sales and government, brought their unique insights to the startup. Initially propelled by a $5.5M seed round, the company's goal was to create on-device AI agents that function without cloud connectivity, essential for military operations in remote or adversarial environments.
Company Profile and Achievements
EdgeRunner AI's business model centers around delivering secure, autonomous AI solutions tailored for defense applications. Their platform employs multiple open-source Large Language Models (LLMs) that execute locally on devices, providing real-time insights and operational guidance without internet connectivity. Key accomplishments include:
- Development of distinct AI agents designed for specific military roles, enhancing decision-making capabilities in real-time.
- Partnerships with central defense and tech organizations, including a significant CRADA with the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory.
- Recognition as one of the top AI startups in CB Insights’ AI 100 listing for 2025.
- Securing a place in the Department of Defense's Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace, expanding their reach within defense sectors.
Current Operations and Market Position
EdgeRunner AI operates at the intersection of AI and military applications, leveraging edge computing to deliver AI solutions directly to soldiers and military vehicles. Their competitive advantage lies in their ability to function entirely offline, which is crucial in combat zones where connectivity is unreliable. They continue to expand their influence in the defense sector while hinting at broader applications, such as disaster response systems and secure enterprise solutions.
Conclusion
EdgeRunner AI is at the forefront of technological innovation in the defense sector, providing critical AI solutions that enhance operational capabilities in challenging environments. With its focus on on-device AI agents and significant partnerships, EdgeRunner AI is positioned to play a key role in the future of defense technology, potentially expanding into civilian applications where secure and reliable AI solutions are critical. As defense and technology intersect increasingly, EdgeRunner AI continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in on-device autonomous intelligence.