AI has touched every part of startups - so it stands to reason compensation would be no different.
AI-native startups hire in fundamentally different ways than their older, non-AI native counterparts. As the chart above shows , the mix of roles particularly within the data and machine learning orgs at these companies has shifted strongly towards AI engineering titles.
AI-native companies also pay more (usually in larger equity packages) to AI/ML engineers than other positions, though they have a fondness for AI-native GTM talent as well.
Far more on the current landscape in AI hiring here:
But wait, there's more.
We can't talk about AI every week in this newsletter and not walk the walk ourselves.
As of today, customers on Carta Fund Admin can dance through their proprietary data in Claude. Ask questions, build off of the clean general ledger, and see just how useful an AI fund admin can be. If you'd like to be added to this beta, reply to this email or shoot us a note at plugins@carta.com
Recent Episodes of The Data Minute Podcast
Why VCs Should
Be Pirates
Peter chats with Arian Ghashghai (Earthling VC) about investing in weird things early!
Is "2 and 20"
Still the Standard?
Peter and Hamza talk about fund economics, including fees, expenses, and deployment rates.
Subscribe here if you're new to the Data Minute. Forwarding encouraged!
Cheers,
Peter Walker
Carta Insights
DISCLOSURE: This communication is on behalf of eShares, Inc. dba Carta, Inc. ("Carta"). This communication is for informational purposes only, and contains general information only. Carta is not, by means of this communication, rendering accounting, business, financial, investment, legal, tax, or other professional advice or services. This publication is not a substitute for such professional advice or services nor should it be used as a basis for any decision or action that may affect your business or interests. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your business or interests, you should consult a qualified professional advisor. This communication is not intended as a recommendation, offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Carta does not assume any liability for reliance on the information provided herein. © 2026 Carta. All rights reserved. Reproduction prohibited.
