Grotto AI has built a vertical AI SaaS platform that analyzes leasing interactions and supplies real-time coaching during calls and tours so agents can build rapport, overcome objections, and close more leases. By processing hundreds of thousands of agent–prospect conversations, its models identified interpersonal signals—such as eliciting laughter or showing genuine curiosity—that drive 48% and 35% higher conversion rates, respectively. Early customers include Weidner Apartment Homes, which manages more than 70,000 units, demonstrating traction with large multifamily operators. The company positions itself against pure-bot solutions, arguing that human interactions, when AI-augmented, unlock a share of the estimated $500 billion in property value lost annually to vacancy. Founded by AI engineers Nick Deveau and Ben Epstein—who previously led technology that underpinned EvolutionIQ’s $730 million exit in 2024—Grotto AI draws on a team of researchers from Carnegie Mellon and Stanford. The founders’ background in building enterprise AI products informs a go-to-market strategy aimed at measurable P&L impact for property owners and managers. Following its seed financing, the company plans to scale its platform across additional owners and operators and further refine its real-time guidance models.

Total raised

$10M

Funding rounds

1

Latest round

Seed

Latest activity

Feb 2026