Despite the slower pace of new unicorns, the Crunchbase board reached new milestones as fewer companies exited in 2023. The total number of global unicorns reached 1,500 at the start of 2024. These companies have raised over $900 billion from investors. In 2023, 10 unicorn companies exited the board via an IPO, far fewer than in recent years, and 16 companies were acquired.
Key takeaways:
- In 2023, fewer startups became unicorns, with less than 100 companies joining the Unicorn Board, the lowest count in over five years.
- Despite the slower pace of new unicorns, the total number of global unicorns reached 1,500 at the start of 2024, collectively valued at more than $5 trillion.
- In 2023, 10 unicorn companies exited the board via an IPO, while 16 unicorn companies were acquired, showing a more active M&A scene.
- Eight new companies joined The Crunchbase Unicorn Board in December 2023, with sectors including artificial intelligence, fintech, cybersecurity, food and beverage, and health care.