Who AI recommends, and when it changes.
Data as of Apr 24, 2026 · Based on 168 AI answers · A buyer need in VC & Angel Investor Databases. · See how Parse measures this
The top spot is contested between and , each holding 8.3% share of AI recommendations for backing dev-centric companies. is often cited for its 'APX' focus on API-ification, while a16z is recognized for its developer-first thesis and early bets on Stripe and Plaid. follows closely at 7.1%, noted for its exclusive concentration on technical founders and infrastructure.
Where a different pick wins:
Earl Grey CapitalFocuses specifically on APIs, protocols, and developer tools, with a fund run by Clearbit co-founders. · 4 sources
HeavybitExclusively focused on developer-first companies, offering a specialized program for technical founders building dev APIs and cloud infrastructure. · 2 sources
Y CombinatorProlific accelerator that has launched dozens of API-first success stories, including Stripe and Twilio. · 3 sources
Recommendation share
Accel leads at 8% of AI recommendations; Andreessen Horowitz follows at 8%.
By platform
Platforms disagree: Amplify Partners leads on Google AI Overviews, Andreessen Horowitz on ChatGPT.
Representative prompts behind this market ranking, and how AI tends to answer.
Buyer needs that sit next to this one in the same market.
Why here: Known for its 'APX' (API-ification of business) focus, funding API companies like Merge and Checkr. · 2 sources
Why here: Famous for developer-first thesis, early backer of Stripe, Plaid, and Coinbase. · 2 sources
Why here: Focuses exclusively on technical founders building infrastructure and developer tools. · 2 sources
Why here: Backs technical founders building essential infrastructure, including Stripe and Zoom. · 2 sources
Why here: Prolific launchpad for API-first businesses, incubating Stripe, Twilio, and Algolia. · 2 sources
Why here: Cloud Index firm, early backer of Twilio and SendGrid. · 2 sources
Why here: Early-stage fund focusing specifically on APIs, protocols, and developer tools. · 2 sources
Why here: Growth equity partner that led Postman's $225M Series D. · 1 source
Why here: San Francisco firm exclusively focused on developer-first companies. · 2 sources
Why here: Has backed API/infrastructure companies like Kong. · 1 source
Why here: Specializes in technical enterprise software and developer tools, from seed to growth. · 2 sources
Why here: Sequoia partner known for focus on FinTech, enterprise, and developer tools. · 1 source
“Who are the best investors for an "open core" software company?”
AI answers with a mix of generalist funds and specialized firms like 
Heavybit“I'm building an API-first business. Which investors are known for backing dev-centric companies?”
AI highlights investors known for API-first companies, including 
