Heidelberg-based AI firm Aleph Alpha is set to become part of Canadian company Cohere, according to sources familiar with the matter from government and business circles. The Handelsblatt reported the deal based on information from multiple insiders. Going forward, Cohere and Aleph Alpha plan to jointly position themselves as an alternative to US technology companies, offering artificial intelligence solutions for enterprises and government agencies. The combination aims to create a non-American AI provider serving the business and public sector markets.

The Schwarz Group, owner of Lidl and Kaufland, is acquiring Bosch Ventures' stake in German AI startup Aleph Alpha, increasing its holding to approximately 20%. The deal's financial terms were not disclosed and remains subject to regulatory approval. Aleph Alpha raised $500 million in a Series B round in late 2023, with both Schwarz Group and Bosch Ventures participating. The retail group previously held nearly 14% whilst Bosch owned around 6%. Both investors secured special veto rights upon entry. Once heralded as Germany's AI champion, Aleph Alpha has struggled against US competition and now focuses primarily on public sector AI services. Founder Jonas Andrulis stepped down as CEO in October, retaining a 28% stake. New co-CEOs Reto Spörri and Ilhan Scheer are reportedly planning to cut approximately 50 positions as part of a restructuring effort.

Aleph Alpha, a company specializing in artificial intelligence, has acquired Thingsthinking, a language software specialist based in Karlsruhe. This acquisition aims to enhance Aleph Alpha's offerings for the industrial and financial sectors.