AI startup completes employee tender offer at $4.5bn valuation as workforce exceeds 300

Decagon, a US-based AI customer support startup, is preparing to complete its first employee tender offer, allowing more than 300 staff members to sell a portion of their vested shares at the company's latest valuation of $4.5 billion (€4.12 billion).

AI Insider reported that the transaction is being led by investors who also participated in Decagon's recent $250 million (€228.75 million) Series D, including Coatue, Index Ventures, Andreessen Horowitz, Definition, Forerunner and Ribbit Capital.

Founded by Jesse Zhang, Decagon develops AI "concierge" agents designed to autonomously resolve customer support requests across chat, email and voice channels. The company serves more than 100 enterprise customers, including Avis Budget Group, 1-800-Flowers, Quince, Oura Health and Away Travel.

Zhang said the tender offer aligns strong investor demand with the company's rapid growth whilst allowing employees to realise some value from their equity. Decagon's valuation has risen sharply from $1.5 billion (€1.37 billion) earlier in the year as demand grows for AI systems capable of automating large-scale customer support operations.

The employee tender offer represents a strategic compensation mechanism enabling workforce liquidity before a potential public offering or acquisition. By allowing staff to monetise equity stakes whilst remaining employed, companies can strengthen retention amongst key talent during high-growth phases.

Tender offers have become increasingly common amongst late-stage technology companies seeking to reward early employees and maintain competitive compensation structures without triggering public market obligations. The mechanism provides partial liquidity whilst preserving employee alignment with long-term company performance.

For Decagon's 300-plus workforce, the tender offer delivers tangible returns on equity compensation earned during the company's rapid scaling phase. The programme reflects broader recognition within fast-growth technology firms that employee financial wellbeing and retention are interconnected strategic priorities.

Access further details on Decagon's employee equity programme and workforce compensation strategy.