Geoff Ralston, former president of Y Combinator, has launched the Safe AI Fund (SAIF), an early-stage venture capital fund dedicated to supporting startups focused on enhancing AI safety, security, and responsible deployment. SAIF aims to back companies developing tools that address AI safety challenges and promote the responsible use of artificial intelligence. The fund offers initial funding of $100,000 per startup with a total fund cap of $10 million. This launch comes amid a broader increase in venture capital activity in the AI and cybersecurity sectors. According to Crunchbase data, there were 81 deals involving AI startups in the first quarter of 2025, contributing to a 26% year-over-year increase in dealmaking involving VC-backed startups. Additionally, funding for VC-backed cybersecurity startups reached $2.7 billion in Q1 2025, marking a 29% increase from the previous quarter. The Safe AI Fund reflects growing investor interest in addressing the risks and challenges associated with AI development and deployment.