London-based startup Slashwork, which builds an AI-first platform for workplace communication and collaboration, has secured $3.5 million in a pre-seed funding round led by 20VC. The funds will go towards product development, testing with early users, and preparing for a broader rollout.
- Launched in 2025 by Jackson Gabbard, Dave Miller, and Josh Watzman, Slashwork is a workplace communication platform designed to reduce information overload and improve knowledge retention in organizations.
- The platform combines AI-powered features with a structured messaging approach to deliver key updates to employees without the constant noise typical of tools like Slack. Slashwork organizes conversations around context and relevance, surfaces important discussions first, and allows users to catch up instantly on activity they may have missed. Its design emphasizes calm, focus, and human connection over endless notifications.
- Slashwork integrates AI to streamline communication: it aggregates notifications, supports search across threads, and automates routine tasks. Groups can be customized with cover photos, emojis, and other visual elements to foster identity and engagement.
Details of the deal
- The Slashwork pre-seed round was supported by 20VC, Sheryl Sandberg’s Sandberg Bernthal Venture Partners, Slack co-founder Cal Henderson, former Facebook leaders AJ Tennant, Carolyn Everson, David Fischer, and a group of tech founders and executives, including Des Traynor, Soleio, Philip Su, Blaise DiPersia, and others.
- The firm plans to develop its AI-first workplace communications platform, with a focus on design, iteration, and testing. The small team will validate the product with early users in tech-focused companies before a wider rollout later in the year.
