ElevenLabs Establishes European Headquarters in London
Peter Zhang Aug 14, 2024 14:48
AI audio company ElevenLabs has opened its European HQ in London to leverage the city's diverse talent pool and innovation ecosystem.
AI audio company ElevenLabs has announced the opening of its new European headquarters in London, as part of its strategy to leverage the city's diverse talent pool and innovation ecosystem, according to ElevenLabs.
Strategic Location for Growth
The new office, located on Wardour Street, will serve as ElevenLabs' central hub for worldwide operations. The decision to establish the headquarters in London was influenced by the city's cultural diversity, access to talent, and proximity to other tech hubs. The company expects the current team of 20 employees in London to grow to over 100 in the coming years.
London has played a significant role in the company’s journey since its inception in 2022. Co-founders Mati Staniszewski and Piotr Dabkowski studied and started their careers in the UK capital. The city’s status as a hub for cutting-edge AI research and its deep pool of technical talent make it an ideal base for ElevenLabs to advance its mission of breaking down language and accessibility barriers in digital content.
Remote-First with Global Talent
Despite the establishment of physical hubs, ElevenLabs remains a remote-first company with talent spread across over 15 countries in Europe, Asia, and North America. Recognizing the global nature of top AI research talent, the company welcomes team members from any location. The London office is the first of several planned hubs, with new spaces set to open in New York and Warsaw.
“We can’t think of a better place to open our central hub. My co-founder Piotr and I came to the UK to study over 10 years ago, and we’re continuously inspired by the people and the plethora of opportunities available. From AI safety to AI innovation, we’re excited to contribute to this vibrant ecosystem,” said Mati Staniszewski, CEO and co-founder of ElevenLabs.
Fostering Local Talent
In addition to housing its team, the new office will feature an incubator-style space for London-based startups and creatives incorporating AI audio into their work. Startups can apply for ElevenLabs credits, free office space, and access to community events.
Support from London & Partners
ElevenLabs has been collaborating with London & Partners, the business and destination agency for the capital, to foster inclusive, sustainable growth in Europe. According to London & Partners data, 77% of international business leaders say London is the most supportive hub for AI development compared to other major AI hubs. Supportive government incentives and policies tailored for AI development were cited as key advantages.
“The fact that we have incredibly innovative companies like ElevenLabs choosing London for its European headquarters is a testament to the city’s thriving ecosystem and solid AI credentials. We’re thrilled to have ElevenLabs join us here and play an important part in developing the technology of tomorrow,” said Janet Coyle CBE, Managing Director of Grow London at London & Partners.
ElevenLabs is also planning to open a new hub and invest in Poland, where both founders are from, to harness talent from another thriving tech ecosystem. The company continues its mission to break down communication barriers with AI audio on a global scale.
Image source: Shutterstock